Connect with us

Fashion

Boots £20 beauty box rivals some expensive skincare brands

CHANNEL TODAY BROADCASTING CORPORATION

Published

on


Boots has just dropped its latest range of beauty boxes, and among them is the Viral Icons Box: a beauty box packed with 10 full-sized items from its own ranges that have been standout stars on social media over the last year. After opening the box and testing some of the products myself, I can definitely see why they’ve been so popular.

The box itself costs just £20, but according to Boots, the value of everything inside adds up to more than £55. All of the items are from Boots’ various own-brand ranges, though I’d honestly say they give some high-end brands a real run for their money at a fraction of the price. In fact, a few of the products instantly reminded me of big-name brands, including Laneige, Glossier and La Roche-Posay. While you might have to shell out upwards of £20 per item for those higher-end options, this Boots beauty box offers a whole lineup of skincare staples for a cut of the price.

Shoppers on the Boots website have already praised the box for its value for money, which offers a £35.65 saving compared to buying the products individually – that’s roughly 64%. In a review, one Boots customer said: “Absolutely worth it. Lots of good things, and full size too. Very pleased, great value for money.”

The items come packaged in a pretty light blue box with a lilac sleeve, which is gorgeous enough to gift but also feels like a real treat to open yourself. As is often the case with Boots beauty boxes, though, we don’t know how long it’ll be around – and it’s only available online.

Many of the products are packed with hydrating and moisturising benefits too, which, let’s be honest, we could all do with a bit more of at this time of year thanks to the dry, cold weather. So, I delved into the box to see exactly what’s inside.

You’ll find 10 full-size items, which is pretty impressive for a beauty box. I’ve tested dozens over the last year, and often you’re lucky to get one or two full-size products, with the rest being travel or mini versions. While there are no big brand names here, there’s a solid mix from Boots’ own ranges, including the Boots Traditional Range (a classic, affordable line designed with simplicity in mind), the Boots Modern Chemistry range (which the brand says is fully backed by scientific research and designed to look just as good on your nightstand as it does on your skin), and the Boots Habi range (their fun, colourful and affordable skincare line for all skin types, including teens).

The first few items that really caught my eye, however, were those that reminded me of much higher-end products on the market. I’m not saying these are like-for-like replacements (some have slightly different ingredients) but they definitely stood out as more affordable alternatives.

It might seem like a small thing, but the first product that piqued my interest was the Boots Lip Sleep Mask Vanilla. Why? Because it reminds me a lot (and I mean a lot) of the Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask, which has been on my wishlist for ages but, at £21 a pot, has always felt just a bit too expensive. I was really keen to try the Boots alternative (which is just £4.50 when bought individually). It has a sweet but subtle vanilla scent, comes with a little applicator, and is infused with coconut oil and shea butter. I loved how soft and slick it felt on my lips, and given mine were seriously in need of some TLC thanks to winter weather, I was really happy with how soft they felt afterwards.

The box also contains a Boots Glossy Lip Balm in a coconut scent. This is actually already the lip balm I keep in my handbag, so I was happy to stock up. The packaging initially caught my eye because it reminded me of Glossier’s Balm Dotcom, which used to be my go-to but retails for £16 at full price – quite a lot for a lip balm, even if the scents are delicious. The Boots balm does exactly what it says on the tin: it’s not too thick or gloopy, but still adds a nice shine (though not quite as glossy as a lip gloss). My only downside is that it doesn’t really smell much like coconut, but that could be a plus if you don’t like strong scents or flavours.

Alongside the two lip products, there are eight skincare items. One is the Boots Traditional Glycerin and Rosewater Toner, which the brand claims is designed to be cooling, refreshing, and moisturising for the skin. It has a subtle rose scent, and I really like the simple, no-fuss packaging of this range too.

Another product that stood out to me is the Boots Ingredients Deep Moisture Spray (RRP £5.50), which has been a bit of a hit online and has been likened to the Curel Deep Moisture Spray (RRP £19.50). I first heard about it on Instagram from skincare influencer Eilidh Moffat, who recommended it as a more affordable alternative. “I know loads of [people] love the Curel Deep Moisture Spray,” she said in a video. “It’s an amazing way to get an instant hit of hydration. Now, what makes the Boots Deep Moisture Spray different is one very key ingredient, hypochlorous acid. Hypochlorous acid is an antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory ingredient. An amazing ingredient to use if you suffer with breakouts, maybe acne, redness from rosacea or eczema or even the dreaded perioral dermatitis.”

She continued: “The key to getting the benefits of a hypochlorous acid is to let it dry on the skin.” The Boots spray itself is a really refreshing spritz, and I’ve been enjoying using it in the mornings for a quick hydration boost – especially with the current cold temperatures.

Two products immediately stood out to me due to their packaging: the Habi Sunny Shield and the Boots Aqua Hydrating Cleanser. The Habi SPF comes in bold, bright packaging that isn’t miles away from BYOMA, one of my go-to skincare brands (I use their moisturising gel cream daily). The Habi range is suitable for all skin types but is specifically tested on teen skin. It’s well known that wearing sunscreen daily is one of the easiest ways to protect your skin, not just from sun damage but also from premature ageing, and this makes it an easy step to add to your routine. Although it’s an SPF 40, I found it melted into the skin easily and didn’t leave any white marks. I also really like the pump packaging, which makes it easy to use.

The Aqua Hydrating Cleanser, meanwhile, instantly reminded me of La Roche-Posay’s cleansing gel. On closer inspection, the ingredients differ, so it’s not a like-for-like product; however, the blue bottle and white pump do resemble each other. That said, the Boots cleanser is suitable for sensitive skin and doesn’t have an overpowering scent, which is ideal if you struggle with fragranced products.

The Viral Icons Beauty Box also includes a collagen cleansing balm, designed for overnight use. Some shoppers have even said they’ve swapped from Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm, which retails for £31. In a review, one shopper said: “Very good cleansing balm, I usually use Elemis, I wanted something cheaper, so I tried this, it is a very nice balm, then put water on and it turns to a milky consistency, then rinse off with a cloth.”

I’ve never tried the Elemis balm myself, so I can’t comment on how similar they are, but I really like the silky texture of this one and felt my skin looked soft and dewy after using it.

There’s also a 10% Vitamin C Serum from the Modern Chemistry range, which the brand says is designed to help boost your natural glow. It’s suitable for morning and night use, and when I lined it up in my cupboard next to my The Ordinary products, I couldn’t help but notice the similarities in the frosted glass bottles with pipettes.

Rounding out the box is a full-size retinol eye cream and fragrance-free eye remover pads, which are ideal for throwing in your bag, taking on holiday, or popping into your carry-on if you don’t want to travel with a bottle of makeup remover.





Source link

Fashion

Amazon ugg look-a-likes are just £39.99

CHANNEL TODAY BROADCASTING CORPORATION

Published

on


The winter months are here for just a little while longer, and if there’s one thing we all reach for when the temperature drops, it’s a pair of cosy boots. Uggs are arguably one of the best comfy, warm winter staples. The only catch? They come with a price tag of around £100 (sometimes even higher), so they’re definitely more of an investment than an impulse buy.

But if you’re after that same laid-back, snuggly vibe without the triple-digit spend, Amazon shoppers think they’ve found a very good alternative. There’s a pair that customers have praised for looking like the Australian boot brand but for a cut of the price, reports Wales Online.

Designed to keep feet toasty while still being easy to style, these boots are versatile enough to wear with everything from leggings and chunky knits to jeans and even skirts. They come in three classic shades: black, beige and grey. The black and beige proved especially popular and have sold very quickly, with only limited sizes left, but the grey is still available in sizes 4 through to 9.

One impressed shopper shared: “Real great quality for the price. You have the choice to tie a bow to them and make them look even cuter. Genuinely wouldn’t notice the different in quality, style and warmth than an Ugg.”

According to Amazon, the boots are made from genuine suede, while the inside is lined with plush faux fur to keep feet extra snug. Visually, they tick all the right boxes too, the shape, suede exterior and cosy lining closely resemble the Ugg Classic Mini Boots. Both pairs are also available in similar shades of grey. The big difference? While the Ugg’s retail for £145 on the Schuh website at the time of writing, the Amazon boots come in at just £39.99 — that’s over £100 cheaper.

They’re practical as well as cosy. The boots are said to have a slip-resistant sole designed to provide dependable grip on wet pavements or light snow, while still being sturdy enough for everyday wear. Underfoot, there’s a 5mm memory foam insole for added cushioning, which should make them comfortable for day-to-day use. As one customer said: “These boots are really lovely, comfortable and worth every penny.”

Another added: “Warm and comfortable. Will definitely order more.”

That said, they might not be the best choice for serious mileage. Some shoppers noted they’re not ideal for long walks. One reviewer explained: “Nice boots. Warm. Looks good. Comfortable to wear to work all day. Not for long hours of walking, though. I wore them on a weekend away, and not really suitable. Good price. Would recommend.”

As a sweet finishing touch, the boots also come with a cute ribbon detail that you can tie into a bow for a softer look or remove entirely if you prefer to keep things simple. It’s a small extra that adds a bit of personality.



Source link

Continue Reading

Fashion

Roman slashes price of ‘best coat ever’ that ‘keeps you dry’

CHANNEL TODAY BROADCASTING CORPORATION

Published

on


Chilly days are still ahead, which is why it’s important to have a warm coat in the wardrobe. Being warm doesn’t mean shoppers have to compromise on style – and Roman has reduced the price of a coat that is being described as looking ‘really stylish’.

Roman’s Charcoal Hooded Quilted Coat is currently down to £88, down from £99. It comes in three colours – charcoal, midnight blue and black, all for the discounted price.

The timeless puffer style means it will last shoppers for years without going out of style, while amping up the warmth thanks to a quilted fabric lining. The duvet style ensures extra cosiness, while the funnel neck is a chic addition to the overall look. 

Even better, the coat is machine washable, so customers don’t have to worry about going to the dry cleaners. A hood finishes the look, keeping the wind and rain at bay. It comes in sizes 10 through to 20, and Roman says it comes in at approximately 107cm in length. 

For an alternative option, New Look has the Black Faux Fur Hood Longline Puffer Coat for £40, down from £74.99. Three colourways are currently on sale – cream, khaki and black – and the faux fur trim on the hood adds a bit of glamour.

For a shorter option, Next is selling the Lightweight Quilted Jacket for £50. A lighter style, this coat is suitable for transitional dressing, and comes in four colours: chocolate brown, black, brown check and burgundy red.

Shoppers have raved about the Roman’s Charcoal Hooded Quilted Coat, which has clocked up an impressive 4.9 stars out of five. One five-star reviewer said: “Best coat ever, warm and cosy, amazing hood and keeps you dry in the pouring rain. Worth the money and it looks really stylish too.”

A second added: “Love it so much. The colour, style and fit are perfect. Had lots of compliments.” While a third chimed in: “Love the coat very warm and true to size, the colour is beautiful, very happy customer.”

However, some customers had a few notes to share about the coat. “Pleased with this coat, it fits nicely with room for a jumper underneath. I think the hood is ok but would have liked the edge to look more ‘finished’ with perhaps some fur?” said one.

Another wrote in their review: “Lovely warm snug coat. Great length and love the colour. I would say to order a smaller size as the first one I ordered was too big. I’m normally a size 14 dress etc but the size 12 was too big. The size 10 fits perfect.”



Source link

Continue Reading

Fashion

Uniqlo’s ‘best ever trousers’ are under £35

CHANNEL TODAY BROADCASTING CORPORATION

Published

on


A good pair of trousers is a wardrobe staple everyone needs and a key element of any outfit. Finding a pair that’s both comfortable and stylish can be a challenge, but we’ve spotted a design that ticks both boxes for less than £35 at Uniqlo. The Japanese brand is well known for its affordable and versatile staples, which are comfortable and easy to mix and match. These barrel leg trousers cost £34.90 and are great for making a subtle statement

The trousers have a mid-rise waist and a casual fit, with a wide barrel leg that provides space and movement. They come in black, off white, dark grey and dark brown, all versatile shades that can be incorporated into any wardrobe, and are made from a cotton-blend jersey that keeps them cool and crisp, with a touch of elastane for extra comfort.

Even though the trousers have a more casual cut, which makes them ideal for everyday wear, they can be dressed up for the office with the right elements and accessories. 

Sizes range from XXS to XXL, with regular and long options, but as they are unisex, it might be worth checking the measurements before ordering. While the unisex aspect might be a bonus for people who like to share clothes with their partners, it could also be seen as a drawback as clothes fit differently on male and female bodies.

Uniqlo customers are loving their trousers, with one saying: “Fantastic all rounder. Can wear for work or play, make smart or casual. The fabric is lightweight but holds its shape well and the colour is sharp.”

Another said: “Bought them as a present for my boyfriend, he loves them, he finds them really comfortable. I now want to also buy them for me.”

One shopper praised the way the trousers fit, saying: “I usually struggle to find fitting trousers due to my body being more wide at the bottom, but these barrel trousers were a game changer! even if it looks like it’s gonna make you look wider, not at all. It makes your figure look even better and they adapt well to any body type without being tight.”

Another confirmed they work on shorter frames, saying: “I had seen these cropping up over socials but was reluctant to try them myself due to being a short gal! I wish I had taken the plunge sooner! I tried them in store and the fit is just perfect, in every way. I wore them to work and had so many compliments (I left the office, walking on air that day!)”

A third shopper called them the “best trousers ever”, writing: ” It just fits and shapes your body so well, it’s incredible. A little larger for S size, but still fine. The material is very reliable, and the length is just long enough for average tall. However, there are longer versions as well. I can’t get over the coolness of its shape!”



Source link

Continue Reading

Trending