Alice's Adventures in SohoHoHo

Hello beauties

Happy New Year! Just to let you know, there are some New Year's inspired motivational posts on the way. However today's post is a write up of my recent adventure. I'll admit it is long overdue; what with a hectic December, I haven't found time to sit down and put pen to paper. But I figure better late than never, right? So here it is.

You may recall a few months ago, my sister Alice took me on a whistle-stop tour around Chelsea in which we scouted out the local hotspots and uncovered a whole lot of juicy gossip. Filled with stunning food, cocktails and fun, it truly was the ultimate Made In Chelsea experience, and one that I shall never forget.

On account of the fact Alice knocked it out the park for my Birthday, I had a lot to live up to when her 21st rolled around.

Now you may have guessed but I love London with a fiery passion. Along with my other favourite New York, London town is as far as I'm concerned, the most awesome city on the planet. I often hear people disparage our capital, remarking that the air is polluted, the commuters are unfriendly and the drinks are extortionate. And I sometimes wonder, if they would just open their eyes, then perhaps they would see our city for the most beautiful place it is. Brimming with an ocean of exciting things to do and see, London is your proverbial oyster.

In my spare time, I enjoy researching trendy new places to eat and drink, unearthing hidden gems and stumbling upon unique experiences. So I got to work and put together a crazy adventure, incorporating all my sister's favourite things. All I'll say is expect the unexpected...

This time we find ourselves wandering not down the exclusive King's Road but instead the vibrant streets of Soho. With its intriguing heritage and no end of secrets hidden within its cobbles, Soho exudes a quirky and distinctive identity. Back in the Victorian era, this neighbourhood may have been notorious for its seedy goings-on and risqué vibes. However, years of renovation has transformed Soho into a diamond in the rough. And no time does it shine brighter than during the festive season. Also attracting fresh talent and cutting-edge cuisine, Soho has become something of a foodie pilgrimage.

On a crisp December morning, we begin our magical mystery tour at 20 Brewer Street: London's award-winning bakery Cutter & Squidge. Brightly lit with high ceilings and modern decor, a passer-by may mistake this place for another trendy tearoom. Yet, one step over the threshold confirms that it is anything but the ordinary. Using all-natural ingredients, Cutter & Squidge creates an array of scrumptious delights. And let's not forget: they've even gained a piece of Insta-fame, thanks to their signature 'biskies' which are a mouth-watering hybrid of a cake and cookie.

We are served by a lovely girl who explains all the different treats and how they are made. It is an impossible task choosing. However after much deliberation, I settle for a decadent brownie and a matcha latte. Meanwhile my sister opts for a slice of apple cake and my mum goes for a Bakewell tart.

When our food arrives, we cannot help but gape. It's like being back in America, that's how massive the portions are. But being a girl who loves a challenge, I pick up my fork and tuck into the brownie which is about the size of a brick. And oh my God: does it taste every bit as good as it looks.

There is an air of alchemy about the bakery, rendered by perhaps the broomstick propped up in the corner, the glass jars lining the walls or perhaps the row upon row of tantalising cakes. It reminds me somewhat of The Leaky Cauldron from Harry Potter. And by that, I don't mean it resembles a pub full of drunken wizards and witches. Conversely, the tearoom gives the impression of some kind of portal, the gateway between the muggle and wizarding worlds.

Towards the back of the bakery, a set of stairs are just discernible. We are informed that these mysterious stairs lead down to The Potion Room where the real magic transpires. This innovative afternoon tea experience welcomes wizards and witches to an immersive potion class. Guided by your stern and Snape-like potion master, you will mix up bewitching potions and all manner of concoctions. To gain access to this exclusive experience, you will need to purchase tickets online. We do not venture down to The Potion Room however I am left more than a little intrigued to return to Cutter & Squidge.

With an hour to kill before our next appointment, we make our way to the hullabaloo of Oxford Street and inevitably end up in Topshop. Boasting four floors of fashion as well as an in-house DJ, braiding bar and piercing studio, it's not difficult to get lost in this monumental flagship. After a quick browse, we decide to head to Carnaby Street.

This is by far one of my favourite streets in London. It's so bright and colourful and buzzing with activity. Home to a parade of cool shops and boutiques, it's also the destination for serious retail therapy.

Just a stone throw away, our second stop awaits: Cowshed Carnaby spa. I've always been a fan of Cowshed as all their products smell exquisite and feel like such a treat on the skin. Therefore, when I discovered the natural bath and body brand had a number of spas dispersed across London, it didn't take much persuasion to book my sister in for a manicure.

According to the website, the Carnaby spa is 'a little piece of country Heaven in the centre of London'. And that, it most certainly is. Leaving behind the busy streets, we are hit by a symphony of gorgeous aromas, causing all stresses to melt away. It's the perfect escape on a cold winter afternoon. With scrubbed down wooden floors and rustic furnishings, the shop feels like the room of a little cottage, all cosy and inviting. We are welcomed by a friendly receptionist who offers us hot drinks while we wait.

Upstairs, the atmosphere is warm and sociable, charged with peals of laughter and chatter. The room is dominated by six incredibly luxurious and comfortable looking chairs which my mum and I cannot help but eye with envy. However these chairs are exclusively for clients to recline in during their manicures and pedicures. If you fancy something even more therapeutic such as the signature Cowshed facial or a body massage, you can take a hiatus from the hustle and bustle, descending the stairs to one of their tranquil treatment rooms.

Once Alice has been seated, my mum and I head back outdoors for a quick shopping session. First up on my list is The Too Faced store where I test out a deliciously-scented chocolate bronzer. Next, we wander round Liberty's, spraying perfumes and getting samples of Kiehl's Midnight Recovery oil.

We're just about to return to Cowshed when we are stopped by a jovial lady who informs us of a new charity pop-up that has just opened round the corner. Intrigued, I follow her directions and end up at the most heart-warming store called Choose Love. Set up by the charity Help Refugees, this pop-up store invites shoppers to give back and show their support. How it works: shoppers can choose from a range of items such as sleeping bags, life jackets and emergency blankets, which are donated to help refugees. You can also buy gifts to take home such as slogan tees, sweatshirts and artwork, with 100% of profits going to supporting organisations. After purchasing a super cool poster to put on my bedroom wall, I leave the shop, filled with a happy glow.

Back at Cowshed, I find my chilled out sister, waiting for her painted nails to dry. She has chosen a beautiful, scarlet shade which will perfectly compliment her outfit for the party at Ministry of Sound later that week. Although I did not try the Cowshed manicure myself, Alice would definitely recommend. Using a blend of indulgent products to buff, polish and moisturise the cuticles, she said it was the most relaxing and thorough mani she had ever experienced. Plus her therapist Danielle was amazing.

It's raining when we finally leave Cowshed behind. With the aid of our saviour Google Maps, we power walk the short journey to our third stop located on Dean Street: Wagamama Noodle Lab.

I am a serious Wagamamas addict. The other day I met somebody who had never crossed the doors of a Wagamamas, and my first thought was 'oh my God you have not lived'. Quite possibly the king of Katsu, this Pan-Asian restaurant chain has revolutionised the way Britons eat and the spaces we dine in. I mean what is not to love about lightning speed service, rows of long, communal tables and bowls of yummy ramen?

The Dean Street Wagamamas is something else however. Known as Noodle Lab, it invites customers to a truly unique test kitchen experience. In return for your honest feedback, you get to channel your inner food critic and try a banquet of ever-changing dishes before they appear on the public menu. And while most London test kitchens may cost you a bomb, you'll be pleased to know that Noodle Lab is amazingly inexpensive.

For starters, we order two types of bao buns to share. Filled with crispy chicken, crunchy slaw and a Katsu mayo, the first moreish bun packs a punch of chilli. The second bao contains sticky duck, cucumber and Hoisin sauce, a genius creation which mirrors the flavours of a Chinese-style duck pancake.

For mains, we opt to share two noodle dishes. The first consists of lightly battered chicken in a miso sauce, served with noodles and vibrant vegetables. It tastes fresh, healthy and clean on the pallet. Our second dish is crispy shredded duck in a citrus, ponzu sauce, served on a bed of charcoal noodles and stir-fry bok choi. Probably the most unusual of the two, we are all in agreement that this is the star dish of the feast.

The dessert menu also looks to die for, featuring a miso matcha cake and a soufflé cheesecake. Alas, having had sufficient, we regretfully decline, ask for the bill and proceed to fill in our glowing review on the screen.

The night is still young when we brave the cold once more and make it back onto Dean Street. Full of anticipation, we head to our fourth and final destination. Leaving behind the bustling Soho, our detour takes us into the heart of Mayfair.

Situated just off of Regent Street, we are stood outside an 18th century townhouse. Granted, this building may seem a little understated from the pavement side. But don't be fooled by the quaint, Georgian facade.

Pushing your way through a heavy, velvet curtain, it's like taking a tumble down the rabbit hole and finding yourself in the craziest wonderland you've ever set eyes upon: one that makes Lewis Carol's nostalgic masterpiece appear somewhat tame in comparison. Everything about Sketch screams loud, fun and the definition of cool. Serving up quirky breakfast, lunch and dinner in jaw-dropping surroundings, it's the perfect place to snap no end of selfies for the Insta story. Restaurant by day, cocktail bar by night, each room is themed around its own crazy concept. One is a pale pink ballroom; another is a green forest, resembling the set of A Midsummer Night's Dream; and a third is like a futuristic space pod. An amalgam of eccentric artwork, luridly upholstered chairs, mirrored table-tops and imaginative architecture, it is the weirdest and most fantastical fairy-tale ever.

We end up seated in The Parlour which is a stunningly elegant room. With dramatic, orchestral music playing over the speakers, it feels like being in the midst of a Victorian tea party. The decor is ultimately classical. However, certain touches give a whimsical, Mad Hatter edge to what is a very refined setting. Everywhere you look there are splashes of neon. And let's not forget, the plush chairs are sporting legs with ballet shoes en pointe.

As we sip our delicious drinks and enjoy the music, there is also some entertainment. Out of nowhere, a ballerina begins pirouetting her way around the room. Definitely not what you would expect to see on a night out in a Mayfair bar: that's for sure.

After finishing our drinks and delightful petit fours, we decide to explore a little further and use the bathroom. Now, when I told people I was coming to Sketch, those who had heard of it were adamant that I should use the facilities there, which I must say seemed a little strange at the time. However, it all becomes a bit clearer as we find ourselves passing handbags to be checked by a security lady and then subsequently joining a queue that feels like being back at Disney. I'm just contemplating why it is necessary to have such high security when at last we are ushered through to the famous ladies'. Nothing could have prepared us for the spectacle which lay ahead.

Each toilet cubicle is shaped like a circular pod and are designed to resemble dinosaur eggs. Yes, you heard me. After queuing again, I finally take my turn in the crazy loo. And while I understand you do not require an in-depth description of what ensues, I will just say it was the coolest toilet experience and one that I would happily spend a penny for.

Sketch was the most awesome finale to our adventure, but it's time to return back to mundane reality. So weary and contented, we call it a day and catch the train home.

A Day In The Life: How To Be A Chelsea Girl

According to Millie Mackintosh: The Top 5 Rules that Every Chelsea Girl Swears By

1.      False eye-lashes, preferably the ones from Millie's own range Mayfair Lashes

2.      The quintessential tweed jacket (hmm, think I'll stick to my Topshop leather jacket for now)

3.      The classic black Chanel bag, preferably one which will go with every outfit in your wardrobe (I'll get back to you on that one)

4.      An uber cute little doggy (now that is something I do have! Say hello to this little cutey! 

        And finally

5.      The Chelsea Blow-dry or as some might call it The Piece de resistance. With cash to splash, it's no wonder that Chelsea girls have all got stylish haircuts and pretty much nailed the art of sassy hair-flipping. 

Made famous by the Duchess of Cambridge and now advocated by the cast of Made In Chelsea, this voluminous signature blow-dry is sure to give the finishing touch to your look.

Ok, while I may not have passed that test with flying colours, it didn't stop us having a fabulous and fun-filled day in Chelsea last Saturday. You've no doubt worked out by now that I am a serious hard-core fan of the show Made In Chelsea, much to my father's disappointment (he claims it is total trash however I beg to differ). In the midst of its 16th series, this Bafta award-winning reality show follows the lavish lifestyles of a group of young socialites living in around the postcodes of fashionable West London. I mean what not to love? With all the parties, drama, bitching, stirring, screaming and break-ups, it's like the posh version of EastEnders (except it's actually good) Yes it's staged, yes it's predictable, but I bet even my Dad secretly enjoys it. So anyway, for my 17th, my sister decided to give me a truly amazing experience that one could not put a price on: a day in the life of a Chelsea girl. I'll just warn you now there was sunshine, there was laughter, there was cheesecake, tequila and a whole lot of juicy gossip. So without further ado, let's get straight into it.

On Saturday morning, I rose bright and early, hoping to see sunlight streaming through my window. However the gentle pitter-patter on the glass quickly confirmed it was not a beautiful, sunny day at all; instead it was a damp, dismal and drizzly day, or in other words average British weather. Messed-up hair, melted make-up and soggy shoes were not what I had in mind. I just hoped the sun would show its face when we got there.

Now for my Chelsea outfit. Although my current wardrobe may not be decked out in Gucci or in any other designer label for that matter (sigh), I can safely say that I have the fashion statement of sparkle to make up for it. Selecting my show-stopper, pink sequin skirt, I decided to play it cool by tucking in a plain, white slogan tee (courtesy of Topshop) with my beloved leather jacket over the top. For my make-up, I also kept it simple, going for a peachy blush, neutral mochas and golds on my eyes, finished off with a nude lip. In terms of footwear, I figured suede boots, while they looked good, would not mix well with puddles. So instead I opted for black trainers, both practical and comfy for walking. Last but not least, the ultimate accessory: my brand-new, shimmering cane which my friend's stepdad who works in a garage, very kindly spray painted silver for me and rolled in glitter.

Leaving the house on time has never been mine or my sister's strong suit, something that my Dad, being the only male in the household, has never quite understood. Inevitably, we were late and inevitably our train was due in a matter of minutes. By this point, panic levels were beginning to rise (primarily on my Mum's part) and the gentle pitter-patter from earlier had increased to a torrential downpour. So raising umbrellas over our heads, we made a run for the car and zoomed off.

As we parked at the station, we could just see our train, pulling in on the platform. Armed with umbrellas, we threw open our car doors, sprinted up the steps and towards the ticket barriers, fast enough to give Usain Bolt a run for his money, all the while complaining about the rain (me) and squabbling about who was to blame for being late (my mum and sister). It was at the ticket barriers where the drama really unfolded. Despite the fact my sister sailed straight through without an issue, my mum's ticket wouldn't work for some reason. Now my mum, she is the best mum in the world but bless her heart, that gorgeous woman does not cope well under pressure. As opposed to calmly hailing the assistance of a train official, she proceeded to force her way through the barriers, shrieking over and over 'we have to get that train!'. The poor woman behind us in the queue looked on with a hint of terror in her eyes, no doubt assuming we were crazy.

As the train doors began to close, the barrier finally opened. Sloshing through puddles, we pelted through and launched ourselves onto the train (shoes a little soggy, but nonetheless in one piece) just in time before the doors snapped shut behind us. Once on the train, all the stress ebbed away and squabbles were instantly forgotten. We were on our way and Chelsea was about to not know what hit it.

In St Pancras station, we started off the girlie fun with drinks on me at our favourite smoothie bar Joe & The Juice. In addition to turned up loud, edgy music, this juice bar chain is renowned for their refreshing and invigorating juices, smoothies, shakes and more. As usual, I went for my favourite AvoShake which is honestly the creamiest, most heavenly shake in the history of milk shakes (yes it's green but like I say, don't judge a smoothie by its colour). My sister on the other hand, went for Sex Me Up, an exotic concoction of passion-fruit and ginger which is delicious in taste yet excruciating to order.

Emerging from St Pancras, we were relieved to discover that the rain gods did actually exist and had acknowledged our prayers (for once). Hallelujah, the sun was shining! In fact, it was so hot that we had to take our jackets off!

Strolling in the sunshine, we ended up at a pretty little café called Élan, tucked away in Knightsbridge. Serving up bold, vibrant and wholesome flavours, this gem of a café and trendy brunch spot embraces the philosophy of wellness, simplicity and above all creativity. Inside, the light-filled space is festooned with flowers and splashes of colour' making it one of the most Instagrammable locations in London. If you are thinking of visiting Élan, it's important to note that they do not take bookings and they are also extremely popular so be prepared to wait. We had to queue up for twenty minutes but it didn't matter because in that time I was able to decide what to eat. Everything from acai bowls to avo toasts, just looked divine. Nevertheless, after much deliberation, my mum and sister went for good old eggs benedict, while I went for a falafel, hummus and tabbouleh wrap. Enhanced by the super speedy service, the food tasted incredible and it was hands down the best falafel I've ever eaten. 

During our meal, my sister was describing to me the rows and rows of rich, decadent cakes. As I've mentioned before, I have a rather major soft spot for cheesecake and no matter how hard I try, I cannot resist the temptation. So, enticed by its glistening, ruby hue, we chose to share a slice of their Red Velvet cheesecake. With a buttery biscuit base and yummy cream cheese filling as light as a dream, this was the perfect treat to satisfy my dessert cravings. An amazing meal and stunning surroundings: Élan gets five out of five stars from me.

For our next destination on the magical Chelsea adventure we made our way to, yes you guessed it, the one and only King's Road. Stretching through Chelsea and Fulham, this is probably the most swanky high street in London. Home to some of the biggest names in fashion including Armani, Chloé, Tiffany and Kate Spade, it's a total shopping paradise (or in our case window-shopping). Beginning at the Peter Jones department store, we wandered round the vast handbag section, trying to find my sister the perfect purse for her 21st. Then we found ourselves gravitated to the sparkling Tiffany's window and naturally, we (or should I say I) could not resist but to go inside. The King's Road Tiffanys is not exactly on the same iconic scale of the world-renowned, fifth-avenue flagship store in New York. That being said, we still had fun, admiring glittering diamonds, earrings and necklaces.

Following some retail therapy, it was time to head over to the Sloane Square Royal Court Theatre where the real tour would commence. Every Saturday at 1:30pm, MIC enthusiasts can meet here and embark on the official Made In Chelsea tour (yes it is an actual thing). This two and a half hour walking tour takes you round all the major filming locations featured in the show, whilst giving the inside scoop on all the cast members' hang-out spots and behind-the-scenes info about how the show is created. It was also a very enlightening experience, even for the most dedicated super fans of the group, as our friendly tour guide spilled all the beans on the secret Chelsea drama. We learnt that:

•          People go on the show for the lifestyle, i.e. being invited to cool parties, not for the amazing salary. Most cast members, apart from the originals, only get paid around £50 per episode. Annually, that's less than a salary at MacDonalds.

•          Have you ever noticed how often a newbie will join Made In Chelsea for a series (like one of Jamie's million girlfriends) and then when it comes to the next series, you're sat there like 'hang on a minute, where did they go?'. Well it's not because they've vanished off the face of the Earth. Unfortunately, it's because they've been cut. In the ever so slightly brutal world of Made In Chelsea, a cast member is given one series to make a good impression. And if they're not popular with the public, then they're out of the door faster than you can say 'sweet dude' (in the words of Proudlock, not me). My question is: why is Sam Prince still on the show?

•          Jamie's childhood dream was to start a sweet shop. Bit random. Here's the other part: he wanted to start a sweet shop run by pretty girls. Now that sounds more like the Jamie we know.

•          Hugo Taylor, who actually came up with the concept of Made In Chelsea, once dated Princess Eugenie.

•          When Mark Francis parents found out he was joining Made In Chelsea, they threatened to disown him. Poor guy.

While I don't want to give away too many spoilers, I will tell you my favourite stops.

First up would have to be Jamie and Proudlock's offices. Now I will admit I have a little bit of a crush on Proudlock and Jamie (and Mytton) so I was really hoping we would bump into them. But what with it being a Saturday, the likelihood of Jamie Laing and Oliver Proudlock working away instead of going down the pub, was pretty much second to none. Hey ho. Inside this smart building, there resides two successful businesses: Jamie's confectionary business named Candy Kittens (which are stocked at Topshop if you were wondering), and Proudlock's trendy fashion business called Serge Denimes. How cute is that? They're best friends and they work in the same building.

My next favourite stop would have to be standing outside a house. Yes, you might be thinking 'er hello, what's the significance of some random house?'. Well I'll tell you this wasn't just any old property. The landlord of this opulent abode is none other than Mark Francis, also known as the king of Chelsea and the poshest man to ever walk this Earth. Unfortunately, he doesn't live there anymore (sob) and just rents the house out to tenant. Still, how cool would it be to live there? My theory is that after joining the Made In Chelsea cast, people realised where he lived and he was fed up of fans peeping through his windows. We don't blame you Mark.

By this point, we were well on our way to hitting 10,000 steps and so a well-earned drink was in order. We stopped off for half-an-hour at the Phene Pub which was amazing. Complete with a plush velvet lounge bar, library themed dining room and beach bar terrace, this gastropub serves quality food and drink in a luxurious setting. Notably, The Phene is run by Clive Watson, the father of sisters Lucy and Tiff who were both popular stars on the show. Despite the fact we did not eat here, the food looked and smelled delicious especially the platters therefore I would recommend if you're passing. For a chilled glass of wine, virgin Mojito and cranberry juice, £11 didn't seem like it would break the bank which was another bonus.

Our final stop (and the highlight of the day) was cocktails at The Bluebird café. Consisting of a glamorous restaurant, bar and terrace area, the famous Bluebird is one of the most heavily featured locations in the show and a popular hang-out zone of celebs. We were lucky as we managed to get seats on the beautiful terrace, perfect for a sunny day.

With cocktails starting at £15 each, this is a treat and a half but worth every single penny. While my sister and mum kept the Rosé flowing, I opted for a King's Road Margarita. This pink cocktail, which matched the colour of my skirt, is a magical elixir of passion-fruit puree, mint, lime and tequila. I got my mum to order the drinks owing to the fact I was still scarred by the experience aged 15 when I ordered a peach Bellini in a restaurant only to be totally busted by the waiter and have a pint of beer accidentally thrown over me (not my finest moment but I will say it ended in a very bad review on TripAdvisor that's for sure). Anyway, when the drinks came and I accepted my Margarita, the waiter looked me up and down, and you could just tell from his slightly petrified expression, that he knew full well I wasn't quite 18. As he walked away, he went over to speak to the manager and during the whole of their exchange, they kept glancing over at us in this weird way. Truth be told, I was all set for round 2 of being busted and having a pint thrown over me, yet to my relief they did not call me out on it. Thank God.

All in all, this was the ultimate conclusion to a fabulous day. I will undoubtedly be returning to explore and dine at more of Chelsea's restaurants and bars. Even for a day, being a Chelsea Girl is pretty damn awesome.

Have a wonderful week and make sure to tune into Made In Chelsea series 16 on E4 every Monday at 9 pm. xx

18 Coconut Oil Beauty Hacks that You Have to Try

Hello beauties,

I hope you are fabulous and enjoying the weekend. Today I thought I'd share with you a beauty ingredient which could just change your life.

Whilst coconut oil has been used for thousands of years in South America, Africa and Asia, this miracle oil has only become a Western beauty staple within the past decade. Reigning over the skincare and health realm, it is becoming increasingly prevalent as the stellar ingredient of all our favourite moisturisers, shampoos and conditioners. However pure coconut oil, which you'll find in pretty much any supermarket or health store, is arguably the most cost-effective way to reap the myriad of benefits both inside and out. Not only does it smell delicious with its rich, exotic aroma, coconut oil has obtained its status as a powerhouse of antioxidants and nourishing Vitamin E.

Suited to a spectrum of skin and hair types, it has been proven to clear skin of breakouts, tame the frizz, strengthen nails and even whiten that gorgeous smile. So without further ado, let's jump straight into it: my top 18 coconut oil beauty hacks.

1. Natural Deodorant

Simply apply coconut oil to the areas you sweat most eg under arms. Alternatively, you can make your own DIY deodorant stick.

What You Will Need:

• 4 tbsp coconut oil
• 4 tbsp baking soda
• 2 tbsp shea butter

To Make:

• Melt the coconut oil and shea butter in a glass bowl over a pan of simmering water.
• Once melted, mix with the baking soda in a medium sized bowl.
• Allow to cool completely.
• Put into an old deodorant container.
• Store in the fridge when not in use.

2. Eye Makeup Remover

Sometimes, when you come in from a night out, the last thing you want to be doing is faffing around in the dark, trying to take off your make-up. If that is you, then coconut oil is the way to go. It's amazing at removing stubborn, water-proof make-up as well as cleansing and moisturising your skin at the same time. 

All you have to do is:

• Take a little coconut oil using clean fingers.

• Massage together to liquidize.

• Rub the melted oil all over the face, focusing in on areas such as the eyes and lashes.

• Wet a muslin or cotton pad with warm water, and wipe all over the face. And you’re done, all ready for bed.

Wearing mascara every day can really take its toll on your lashes, causing them to dry out and eventually fall out. Coconut oil moisturises the hair around the lashes preventing them from falling out, whilst also stimulating growth.

By routinely applying a little coconut oil in this way, you can say goodbye to panda eyes and hello to thick, shiny lashes.

3. Send Those Bags Packing

Good news, you don't have to fork out for a 40 quid eye cream to erase those dark circles. Applying coconut oil every night to the under eyes will help rejuvenate the skin, banishing those circles and brightening dull complexion. Meanwhile, its anti-inflammatory properties will help to reduce redness and puffiness of the eyes.

4. Hydrating Deep Conditioner

For lustrous locks, try this intensely hydrating deep conditioner. Mix 2 tbsp of melted coconut oil with 2 tbsp of pure aloe vera gel. When it's ready, apply the conditioner to your hair, combing through the ends. Put a towel round your shoulders and let the conditioner soak in for about thirty minutes, then rinse thoroughly with warm water.

Another great trick to have a go with is this diy, Kardashian-approved conditioning spray. Fill a spray bottle with some warm water. Add a tbsp of sea salt, half a tbsp of melted coconut oil and a few drops of conditioner. Shake the bottle well, before spritzing your hair, focusing on the ends. Then blow-dry your hair.

As well as improving texture and shine, incorporating coconut oil in your haircare routine will promote growth and the overall health of your hair.

5. Cuticle Cream

Coconut oil helps soften and moisturise the cuticles whilst strengthening the nails.

6. Exfoliator

Make this super easy coconut oil scrub for a dewy, glowing complexion. In a bowl, mix 2 tbsp of coconut oil with 3 tbsp sugar, mashing with a fork to combine. Apply to a clean face, moving in circular motions. Rinse with warm water and pat dry with a towel.

7. Moisturizer

Coconut oil is most widely used as a natural moisturiser. Bearing in mind a little goes a long way, take a small amount of coconut oil in your hand and dot over the face. With your fingertips, gently massage into the skin, moving in circular motions to stimulate circulation.

If you have oily skin, you might be thinking, really? Adding more oil to your skin sounds like a recipe for disaster. However contrary to what you would think, adding oil to your face does not clog the pores. While it varies from person to person, experts have found that oil cleansing or oil moisturising slows down the production of sebum, helping to prevent breakouts.

8. Coconut Face Mask

If your skin's in need of some TLC, resurrect your radiance with this sumptuous home-made face pack.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 avocado, mashed
• 1 tbsp coconut oil
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp oatmeal

Instructions:

• Melt the coconut oil in the microwave for 15 seconds.
• Pour the honey into the bowl and stir until the two ingredients are combined.
• Add the mashed avocado and oatmeal to the bowl.
• Mix until it forms a thick paste.
• Smooth the face mask all over a clean face. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes, then rinse with warm water. Gently pat dry.

As well as coconut oil, honey and avocado are packed full of nourishing vitamins and powerful antioxidants, helping to soften the skin. Moreover, the anti-inflammatory properties of oatmeal help reduce redness and soothe inflammation.

9. Sun Block

According to experts, we should be applying sun block or some sort of SPF product to our face every single day. This is because our skin is exposed to a surplus of damaging UV rays and free radicals which can put us at risk of skin conditions such as cancer and speed up the process of premature ageing. Whereas most sun blocks can be very heavy and greasy on the skin, coconut oil absorbs without leaving an oily residue. Just applying a little to your face before you go outside, will help protect your skin from the sun whilst slowing down premature ageing. With a SPF of 8, it's not by any means a sufficient sun block for a day at the beach. That being said, particularly at this time of year when the weather is turning cloudier, coconut oil will be perfect.

10. Natural Lip Balm

Now that the months are getting colder, it's common to find that your lips get chapped and dry. As if by magic, a dab of coconut oil heals cracked lips, giving you a gorgeous pout.

11. Eyebrows on Fleek

If your brows are a little patchy, then coconut oil is your saving grace. By stimulating growth, coconut oil helps brows to grow evenly. Before you go to bed, cleanse your face. Massage the coconut oil into your eyebrows until they feel soft and moisturised. Within a week or so, you will start to see miraculous results.

12. Natural Shaving Cream

Before shaving, slather on some coconut oil for incredibly smooth legs.

13. Highlighter

After applying your make-up, take a teeny bit of coconut oil and warm it up on the back of your hand. Gently pat the oil into your cheeks and the bridge of your nose, taking care not to rub it. This will give a radiant glow.

14. Flyaway Tamer

To put the flyaway days behind you, massage a little oil onto your scalp and throughout the strands.

15. Makeup brush cleaner

Are your brushes and sponges looking somewhat worse for wear? I know mine are. Cleaning your make-up brushes regularly is essential to prevent the spread of breakouts. All you have to do is microwave a few tbsp of coconut oil for about 30 seconds and dip your brushes into it.  Rub the brushes on a paper towel to remove excess makeup, and then rinse thoroughly under warm water. If it couldn't get any better, coconut oil has anti-microbial properties. Therefore it will help keep your brushes squeaky clean and bacteria-free. If you try this miracle method, your brushes and sponges will look so glossy and as good as new.

16. Pearly Smiles All Round

Coconut oil helps to remove plaque and reduce bacteria in the mouth, in turn whitening your teeth.

• Here's how to do it.
• Start by placing a teaspoon of coconut oil in your mouth.
• Allow to warm until it liquefies.
• Swish the oil around your mouth for 5-10 minutes ensuring it covers all the areas of your teeth and gums.
• Do not swallow.
• Spit out the oil in the toilet or the bin (don't spit down the sink because it may block the drain). Rinse out your mouth with warm water and brush as usual with toothpaste. Repeat a few times a week for best results.

17. Scar treatment

Coconut oil is a rich source of vitamin E which is renowned for healing and fading scars, giving you a clearer complexion.

18. Coconut Oil in the Bath

I don't know about you but I absolutely love a good soak in the bath, especially before bed. Why not spice up your bath with these beautiful diy bath melts. They're super easy to make and they will leave your skin silky smooth.

What You Will Need:

• 1 Cup Coconut Oil
• 15 Drops Essential Oils eg Lavender
• moulds, muffin trays or ice cube trays

To Make:

• For a couple of minutes, heat the coconut oil over a low heat until it is completely melted.
• Remove from heat and add essential oils.
• Mix well and pour the melted coconut oil mixture into your moulds.
• Allow to cool. Then place in the fridge to set.
• Once set, pop the melts out of the moulds and keep them in a container.
• Store the container in a cool place. Alternatively, you can store in the fridge.
• To use, run a hot bath and drop one of the bath melts into it. Once melted, lie back in the bubbles and relax.

Coconut Oil Bath Salts

This bath salt blend is incredible for relieving muscle pain and stress.

Ingredients:

1 big scoop of coconut oil

2 cups of Epsom salt

A few drops of essential oil (tea tree or lavender work best)

To Make:

• Melt coconut oil.

• Mix all ingredients together and store in a jar.

• Add a few spoonfuls to a warm bath.

So there you have it: my top 18 uses of coconut oil for radiant skin, hair, nails and more. Enjoy xx

Has Instagram Made Healthy-eating Unhealthy?

Hello beauties,

Before I get into this post, I want to ask you a question: how many of you use Instagram?

Although I rarely use Instagram, I can see why people love it so much. Without doubt, there is something rather satisfying in scrolling through celebrities' filtered lives. But while it may seem like a source of escapism, is it merely blurring reality?

In recent years, Instagram has undergone a major metamorphosis. What began in 2010 as a basic photo-sharing app has since exploded into a utopia of flattering filters, altered selfies and stunning backdrops. For me, that is exactly where the issue lies. Everything is picture perfect on Instagram.

We're led to believe that these flawless images exhibit people's genuine, everyday lives. Yet more often than not, they simply represent the handful of highlights and the desirable snapshots. In order to fit in, it's like we have to build two dichotomous worlds for ourselves: the Insta fairy-tale entwined with our mundane realities. Overtime, that pressure to emulate the 'perfect' lifestyle has become intoxicating.

As we scroll and like our way through an avalanche of perfection, it's our job to join the dots between what is real and what is quite clearly disingenuous. We look at people's photos and without even realising, we start comparing ourselves, doubting ourselves, hating our own reflections.

Previously, I looked at how social media in general is having a negative impact on our body confidence. However today I really want to focus on one particular faction of the Insta population. And that is the health and fitness community, an army that is taking the world by storm.

These days, you don't have to attend an exercise class or buy a recipe book to glean health advice. With the myriads of nutritious recipes, health tips and workout plans posted on Instagram, getting fit and healthy has never been so easy. Or at least that's what we thought. Turns out a lot of what the Insta health world promote isn't actually that healthy. In fact, some of it is downright dangerous and could be doing your body more harm than good. (I know, what a sham, eh?)

Since social media, I feel our relationship with food has deteriorated substantially. The quest for a healthy body used to mean adopting a balanced diet in conjunction with an active lifestyle. But now according to many bloggers and celebs, it would appear that 'getting healthy' is another term for getting skinny.

Thanks to the never-ending serge of capricious health trends, we've become obsessed with where food is coming from, which foods are good for us and which foods are, so we're told, 'bad' for us. As a consequence, the social media diet has been deconstructed by online health enthusiasts and gradually stripped down to the bare minimum. Staple foods such as bread and pasta have long since been out crowded and demoted by a new generation of nourishments called the superfoods.

In my household, I have to say we do love our superfoods such as flaxseeds, avocados, kale and quinoa, purely because they're rich in antioxidants and vitamins. That being said I've always treated them as additional ingredients or accompaniments as opposed to meal replacements. For example, I sprinkle seeds on chocolate mousse; eat avocado smashed on toast; stir a handful of kale through some pasta or cook it alongside chicken pie. On the contrary, a lot of 'clean-eating' Instagrammers are making the assumption that these superfoods will provide them with all the nutrients they require, leading them to cut out entire food groups which for some reason they're convinced are bad for them.

Let's just take a moment shall we to mourn the passing of the humble carbohydrates, a crew that was one of the first to be booted out the Insta pantry, shortly followed by sugar, dairy, fat, meat, oils, grains and so the list goes on. Sorry, what was that? What's for dinner? Well, you can either have a nice succulent piece of steak on a bed of spinach and triple cooked chips. Or, you can have kale surprise with the surprise being that it's just a massive bowl of, yep you guessed it, kale (or as my Dad likes to call it, the Devil's food). Hmm, as much as I love kale, I think I'd rather have the steak, wouldn't you?

I understand that what people want to do on Instagram is their own choice. Nonetheless, I feel it's got to the point where bloggers and celebs aren't just informing us; it's like they're trying to impose their lifestyles on us which is not ok. Because we idealise everything they do and say, we feel obliged to listen and copy them. The scary thing is though, most of them have no qualifications in nutrition, no fitness credentials and no scientific evidence to underpin their endorsements. Instead, they exploit their influence and an element of guilt-tripping their fans into conforming. Regularly, they will upload virtuous posts in which they preach their mantras and doctrines. I remember reading one post where this girl went on about how 'we shouldn't be eating products from a cow because that's just gross and why would anyone want to put that stuff in their body'. There was me, sat there like is this girl stupid? I can think up hundreds of disgusting, bush-tucker-trial worthy foods yet funnily enough, milk is not one of them. So I thought 'screw that, who said anything about cows? I'm gonna have some chocolate cake with a generous scoop of ice-cream and nobody is going to make me feel guilty for treating myself.

Of course, we can laugh about the ridiculousness of it all but at the end of the day, Instagram advice, however dubious, is putting us at risk. While these free-from diets such as Veganism and paleo may seem super healthy, they are in fact extremely low in calories and void of essential nutrients. This can result in numerous deficiencies as well as a whole host of nasty symptoms. To begin with, your head feels like it's full of cotton wool and it aches incessantly. No matter how many hours you sleep, you wake feeling drowsy and tired. The world around you doesn't feel so steady anymore, making you feel dizzy and seasick. Your mood is like a pendulum swinging from one emotion to the next, leaving you laughing, then snapping, then crying your eyes out all in a matter of minutes.

Further down the line, malnutrition can also have serious long term impacts. For example you'll find your hair starts to fall out, your periods eventually stop, and your immunity diminishes meaning your body cannot fight every day infections like it used to.

It's not just the lack of variety in these condensed diets which is a worry. It's the lack of food fullstop. Amongst the health conscious preachers on Instagram, there prevails a scary subculture called Pro-Anorexia which is growing increasingly prevalent. These communities claim to provide non-judgemental support for those suffering with eating disorders. However, in reality, all they're doing is distorting people's perceptions of body image. By insinuating that Anorexia is a trendy lifestyle choice rather than a deadly illness, these bloggers egg their followers on to lose weight and become dangerously thin. By dishing out tips and tricks, they openly endorse damaging practices such as fasting and over exercising which is putting thousands of people at risk of both injury and death. Lastly, by crafting harmful hashtags such as #bonespiration, they encourage their followers to 'inspire' one another and post pictures of themselves, zooming in on emaciated bodies, tiny waists and protruding hip bones.

The influence that these bloggers have is just detrimental. For readers who are insecure about their weight, it's communities like these where eating disorders manifest themselves. And for readers who are already Anorexic, these bloggers can lead them down an even darker path.

When healthy intentions spiral into an obsession, this should be the indication that something is not quite right and that it's time to seek help. Despite this, due to insidious posts camouflaged in the name of health and wellness, alarm bells are slowly being muffled and lucid signs are becoming harder to spot. Moreover, prolific numbers of people are choosing to flaunt their so-called salubrious lifestyles on a daily basis, meaning photos of impeccable plates and radical body transformations are appearing as commonplace as the duckface. Overall, this has inadvertently led to the normalisation and to some extent the glamorisation of disordered eating. I'm not saying that every person on a diet is suffering from an eating disorder. All I'm saying is that the constraints of certain diets and the punitive nature of their messages are helping to constitute unhealthy eating habits. Meanwhile, the picture perfect world of Instagram is disguising the dangers, leading people to refrain from seeking help.

The reason why I'm telling you all this is because I've been there. I know what it feels like to be in that situation. Growing up, the online health industry had a transcendental impact on the way I viewed food and the way I viewed myself. At the time, what they were saying seemed so inspirational and positive. In hindsight, I can see now that these bloggers weren't inspiring me to be healthy. They were just inspiring me to feel insecure about my body.

It makes me so angry that Instagram and other sites are allowing people to use their platforms to promote dangerous messages about health. In my opinion, there needs to be stricter guidelines or regulations  about what people can and can't post. Either that or posts need to be clearly marked so we can identify whether they have been written by a qualified nutritionist or simply a healthy wannabee.

My advice to you would be if you're interested in health, only follow nutritionists as you can always rely that their recommendations will be safe and medically certified. A great example to check out is Katharine Tate, The Food Teacher at  www.thefoodteacher.co.uk

Most importantly though, look after yourself. And if you’re worried about your eating habits, then please, please talk to your family and seek help because things will get better as soon as you speak out. xx