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Review

Bandables Twisty Braids Headband Review and Tutorial | Hairstyles For Girls

by Lina Clémence June 28, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

Today we are testing the “bandables twisty braids headband” by Localoc. We saw this at our local Walmart and thought it looked cute and fun to try.

We are always looking for easy hairstyles for school mornings and thought it would be perfect for those days when you need a 5 minute hairstyle. (Which is pretty much every school morning at our house!)

This would also be a great accessory for 2nd or 3rd day hair, to help disguise when it’s looking slightly greasy. For those of you who are growing out your bangs, this would be fabulous as well!

Review and Tutorial Video: (Click here to watch this hairstyle video directly on YouTube.)

We liked that the little hair elastics on this headband held her hair back quite tightly without pulling or clamping her hair. We’ve tried similar options in the past (with barrettes or clips attached to the headband) and it seems like you need exactly the right amount of hair to make those work. We’ve had trouble with the hair being too thick to clip the barrettes shut, or the hair being too thin and sliding right out. So, the elastics are a great option that will accommodate all different hair textures and thickness.

There are many different hairstyles that can be created using this headband. We have shown just a few basic ideas in this video:

A half up twist.

Cute and easy half up hairstyle for school using twisty braids headband.

A ponytail.

Easy 5 minute ponytail hairstyle for school with twisty braids headband.

If you play sports, I think this would be a nice option for keeping your hair out of your face. You could add a ponytail, bun, or braid and be ready to go.

I think this would look really cute with curled, wavy, or crimped hair as well as straight. This would also be perfect for short hair, as well as long. So fun!

We unfortunately were not able to find this available to purchase online yet… I think it is too new. Here are some similar headbands on Amazon, but none with the elastics yet:

Headband 1, Headband 2, Headband 3. You might have better luck finding this at your local drugstore or retailer.

June 28, 2025 0 comments

Women's Fashion

Dior Menswear Spring 2026 Collection Review

by Lina Clémence June 28, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

Today, on day four of Menswear Paris Fashion Week, Jonathan Anderson presented his debut collection as creative director of Christian Dior. Appointed in June, the British designer kick-started his era as the sole creative force behind the fabled French fashion house with a bang. The front row was stacked with a plethora of A-list talent (including everyone from Rihanna and Josh O’Connor to Donatella Versace and Robert Pattinson). Inside the vast show venue that was modeled after Berlin’s Gemäldegalerie museum, models paraded the set dressed in Jonathan’s take on classic Dior house codes. The recipient of theFashionSpot’s 2023 Designer of the Year award infused the past and present, amalgamating 18th-19th-century dressing with a contemporary preppy-inspired style.

Dior Menswear Spring 2026 Collection Review

Read below the reactions of theFashionSpot’s forum members:

“It’s just JWA x Uniqlo with a Dior logo.” [youthinasia]

“Snoozefest.” [FashionPower]

“I knew it would look this way. The womenswear is going to be worse.” [brandon J pierre]

“What a bore. I thought it would never end. I don’t remember anything besides the unflattering bar jackets or whatever that was supposed to be.” [Avonlea]

“I was afraid of this. It’s good, but I just don’t know if it’s right for Dior. It needs a little bit more refinement. We don’t need a more luxe version of his namesake label.” [GivenchyHomme]

“Great debut! I knew it would be more commercial than JW and Loewe, but I think he knows how to make commercial pieces that are still interesting and incredibly desirable. There was quite a bit of fashion ideas running throughout the collection.” [Marc10]

“The debut was solid, IMO. I like how approachable the collection can be. Fabulous soundtrack too.” [thiago]

See all the looks from the Dior Menswear Spring 2026 collection and join the conversation, here.

June 28, 2025 0 comments

Canadian Beauty

Giovanni 2chic Frizz Be Gone Shea Butter Shampoo & Conditioner Review

by Lina Clémence June 27, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

When you see a product that claims to have 20 benefits to improve your hair, sure you’re skeptical, but also interested in finding out if they are true! Giovanni 2chic Frizz Be Gone Shampoo & Conditioner was introduced to me in a beauty – blogger – box last year. I figured I didn’t have anything to loose and per the claims, lots to gain, so I gave it a whirl!

I use to be a one brand kinda girl when it came to my hair products. I was afraid to branch out and test drive anything else as I thought I had found what worked for my hair. Well, as I have gotten older I have almost been reintroduced to my hair and now I love testing out new hair care items!

When I opened the beauty blogger box from @MSquaredbrands late last year, I took one look at these and put them aside. I was close to finishing up what was in my shower at the time and these bad boys were next on the list to try!

First off, who else has to smell a product? It is one of the first things I do, even sometimes before reading the packaging LOL. Well these smell pretty amazing. With Shea butter and almond oil, the scent is light but it lets you know it is there.

I than saw the 20 claims to improve and benefit my hair and I was like “say what? But really?”

Photo Credit: http://www.giovannicosmetics.com

The few that caught my eye was that it reduces frizz & tames unmanageable hair & flyaways. I have super straight hair, but frizz and flyaways are my enemy! With Winter on the horizon where I live, moisture (snow & rain) and low humidity was about to take over also. Anything to help my hair was on my must try list.

The product is light weight also and lathers up nicely. A little goes a long way for both the shampoo and conditioner. While I do not wash my hair everyday, these have lasted me 3 months! The cost of these are very reasonable also, so that is a win-win all around.

Giovanni has a wide range of products to suit any ones hair care needs and can be found at many locations across North America as well as online. (check out well.ca and don’t forget to use my code: tals10for40)

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Thanks Beauties,

Blog sign off

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*PR Samples. This product was sent to Talsbeautyopinion for consideration and product testing/reviewing and did not receive payment for review. As always, this does not and will not alter my honest opinion on a product. Talsbeautyopinion is not a makeup artist, beauty or skincare specialist and will not be held liable for any recommendations. Therefore, try at your own risk.

June 27, 2025 0 comments

Cosmetics

Meroda Cosmetics Changing Foundation Review – Does the Changing Foundation Really Work? | Makeup Savvy

by Lina Clémence June 26, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

AD This is a paid for ad in partnership Meroda Cosmetics

When it comes to finding the correct foundation for your skin tone I think we can unanimously agree that it’s often a tedious process. We have all been there; swatching a brand new foundation for the first time only to realise it’s a few shades too light or dark, making it an instantly unusable product.

So when I heard about the cruelty-free and vegan friendly Meroda Cosmetics Changing Foundation that adapts to your skin colour I was instantly intrigued and had to try it out for myself!

Not only does this unique foundation adapt perfectly to fair to medium skin tones but hides redness and blemishes with a light to medium coverage.

Hello to never experiencing a failed foundation shopping trip again!

Meroda Cosmetics Changing Foundation Swatches

Foundation Application

Finding my correct foundation shade over the years has been tricky, so tricky I have a drawer of redundant foundations gathering dusk. So to say when I got my hands on the Meroda Cosmetics Changing Foundation I was hopeful would be an understatement.

On first application using the ultra-soft 2-in-1 Build & Conceal Brush, I immediately noticed the almost white foundation start to quickly adapt to my skin tone with the pigment within the formula changing to something light in colour, similar to my natural skin colour, with subtle yellow undertones to give a healthy-looking glow.

When a foundation matches seamlessly with the skin it is a thing of beauty and I can truly say once a full face application of the Changing Foundation had been applied, I was suitably impressed with how my skin looked! Not only did the foundation match my neck but all redness to my complexion was gone without a heavy, cakey look to the skin.

Meroda Cosmetics Changing Foundation Results

Formulation

As for the formula which boasts an spf 15, the application feels almost effortless whether you opt to use the 2-in-1 brush, which I must say I love due to the fact it has a smaller end ideal for getting around the sides of the nose and the under eyes, or simply use your fingers. With a slightly creamy gel-like feel Meroda’s Changing Foundation glides over the skin, blending seamlessly while changing to your correct foundation shade.

It’s also worth noting my skin didn’t feel weighed down or uncomfortable, I’m sure the fact that this foundation is suitable for sensitive skin also helps here.

Foundation Wear Time

Another important factor when it comes to foundation is how the formula wears on the skin during the day. I like to believe my skin type is a good indicator of how well a foundation will last as with combination skin I deal with a bit of everything – from an oily T-zone that can cause some foundation to breakdown throughout the dry to dry patches that a lot of formulas like to cling to. However, I am happy to report that Meroda Cosmetics Changing Foundation with its waterproof formulation fairs extremely well when it comes to staying power with a full day of even wear that still looks fresh even towards the end of the day.

Overall Thoughts

Had I come across the Meroda Cosmetics Changing Foundation sooner I would have saved myself a lot of time and money over the years in my constant attempt to find my right colour match. But alas, at least we now have such a foundation!

I believe this is one of the best options if you have fair to medium skin with yellow undertones and you can’t go wrong with the matching 2-in-1 brush either – that thing is super soft and blends seamlessly!

Have you tried the Meroda Cosmetics Changing Foundation before? Let me know in the comments!

Fee x

June 26, 2025 0 comments

Asian Beauty

GRWM Cosmetics Velvet Setting Powder Review Swatches

by Lina Clémence June 26, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

GRWM Cosmetics Velvet Setting Powder Review is finally here! Not a fan of powders lately because we are currently enjoying colder weather and so I’m usually wearing dewy finish skin products but I have picked up working out again and so must find a powder that I can wear while exercising while giving me enough coverage and yes, this powder from GRWM Cosmetics does deliver!

You can buy this directly from the official store of GRWM Cosmetics HERE and if you are lucky, it will be discounted too!

What is the GRWM Cosmetics Velvet Setting Powder?

It may be used alone to level out the skin tone or as a setting powder to offer a little more coverage to sheerer liquid bases. GRWM Cosmetics Velvet Setting Powder is a for-all-skin-types powder with light to medium coverage. Squalane, Kaoline, and Calamine are ingredients in the vegan formula that calm, hydrate, and mattify the skin. It is available in several shades so, wow!

By the way, I only have the 3 shades for fair skin, Buff, Linen, and Shell. They differ in their undertones.

Price: 549 pesos per 10 grams

Where to buy: You can buy in Shopee HERE if you want to avail of brand promos. The brand doesn’t have a physical store as of now but maybe soon!

I love the top part of the packaging. The bottom part, unfortunately, is a magnet for smudges.

I’m a sucker for details and like that the expiration is clearly marked.

Here are the swatches of the lightest shades for fair skin. As you can see, they made sure to cater to various undertones.

GRWM Cosmetics Velvet Setting Powder Review Summary

The claims are real:

Coverage can range from sheer to high medium, and I am glad that it is definitely buildable. I achieved high medium coverage when I layered on top of tinted moisturizer and also when I used a layer of wet application on top of powder form. The product looks even better at the 3-6 hour mark. Can get a bit cakey if you forget to blot before reapplication so be sure to blot. In my case, blotting is often enough to not need a new layer.

My other thoughts and observations:

I wish they offer refills. Packaging is so nice and its a pity having to throw it away huhu
The powder is truly smooth and can blur out pores/skin.
No strong scents. Thank you GRWM Cosmetics!
Love that this is paraben-free, vegan, and cruelty-free.
Can last 3-5 hours before seeing visible oil on oily skin.

Here is a comparison of right side with powder and left side without. LINEN is a perfect match for me, yay!

Below is 3 hours after application, Stil looking fresh after blotting.

Final verdict (MARCH 2023)

It is challenging to rate powders in my opinion because it has to be worn under very different settings to truly gauge their prowess. I say my current rate is 4/5 because I really like the velvety finish this powder gives me. Oil control is also decent even during hot months. I will probably update this around May 2023 for when summer is truly back!

Price: 549 pesos per 10 grams

Where to buy: You can buy in Shopee HERE (with discounts) if you want to avail of brand promos. The brand doesn’t have a physical store as of now but maybe soon!

note: REPUBLISHED FROM DECEMBER WITH UPDATE 🙂

#yeyandiemakeup #yeyandieswatches #grwmcosmetics #makeupph #cosmeticsph

Let’s stay connected!

Email Me: pinaybeautyandstyle @ gmail.com

Please note that some links in this blog are affiliate links that help me earn a small amount when readers click on them. Some photos on the side are ads that generate a small amount when clicked. These links help me cover the cost of running this blog such as software costs, buying products to review, and paying for domain fees. All opinions shared are my own.

June 26, 2025 0 comments

British Beauty

Jane Iredale Skintuition SPF30 Radiance Boosting Foundation Review

by Lina Clémence June 26, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

[unpaid/sample/affiliate/ad] It feels like a long time since Jane Iredale appeared anywhere in the UK – it’s not been in my sightline for literally years. The company was sold to venture capital in 2019 and if my memory serves me correctly, it was far more active in the UK prior to that. As an early adopter of mineral make up Jane Iredale sat in the same row of seats as bareMinerals with powder foundations at their core. Powder foundations were never for me but I have seen the miracles of their ability to correct and improve oily, blemish prone skin.

I feel like Jane Iredale was always a salon/small retailer brand rather than a high street brand and that still seems to be the case. However, they’ve returned with the force of a lion with their new foundation – Jane Iredale Skintuition SPF30 Radiance Boosting Foundation. It’s really very, very good for a luminous, mid-coverage base in 26 shades.

I was sent 3 shades (loved the packaging which looks like an iPad or iPhone Pro – which I wish it was because it was such a mistake not to go Pro when I updated a few months ago!) and they’re bizarrely accurate for my tone. From bottom to top, 26 Light, 34 Light Medium (best shade for me) and 36 Light Medium. The feel is cool on the skin and very lightweight – I tested this when it was very hot and could actually tolerate it. Like most new foundations now, there is a skin care element with hyaluronic acid and a hydration complex and it’s been formulated to feel as much like skin care as it does foundation.

As you can see, Jane Iredale Skintuition SPF30 Radiance Boosting Foundation is giving a visible smoothness and radiance (there’s no highlighter on), evening out my tone and giving a perfected canvas for the rest of my make up. This was a very quick application with no other make up at all – I should have blended it better but given the speed, I think it’s looking good. There’s a claim on the website that this foundation is endorsed by The Skin Cancer Foundation (USA) as an effective daily broad spectrum sunscreen (actually there’s a typo that turns it into the Skin Care Foundation which I couldn’t find anywhere on Google and spent quite a long time looking – grr) meaning that you don’t need to double dose your SPF unless you want to. The last on the foundation was pretty good – I added other make up over it later and the whole lot held for the day. The foundation is quite expensive at £55 but it’s currently on offer for £46.75 HERE.

June 26, 2025 0 comments

Beauty

REESON Beauty Lid Elixir Eye Serum-Tint Review & Swatches

by Lina Clémence June 25, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

*Links marked with asterisks are affiliate links, these help Ree with running costs of the blog

Priced at

*REESON is my own brand

REESON Beauty Lid Elixir Review - OG Nude & Toasted Cinnamon

I am thrilled to be able to say that REESON Beauty Lid Elixir is now available in a brand new shade, Toasted Cinnamon. This means the sell-out original shade which was previously called Universal has now been named OG Nude. Here’s what you need to know.

What is REESON Beauty Lid Elixir?

I basically made Lid Elixir for me because I have wanted smoother, more youthful looking eye lids for the longest time and there wasn’t anything out there that I felt would do the job.

Like the Bronzing Balm and the Highlighter Duo, the REESON Beauty Lid Elixir is a skincare-makeup hybrid product, and a truly skincare-first formula. It is a peptide packed serum-tint designed to treat the eye lids. The challenge was to add long lasting, crease resistant colour and soft shine. But we did it. Lid Elixir took over 3 years to formulate!

A first of its kind peptide-packed serum-tint
Designed to smooth eyelids and deliver a wash of sheer, glossy colour
Univeral shade that suits all skin tones
Formulated with active ingredients to help skin feel brighter, plumped and hydrated
Targeted active ingredients like Matrixyl Synthe 6 and Gatuline Link n Lift work to boost collagen and elastin synthesis, and to visibly reduce imperfections on the eyelids
Works to improve the appearance of eyelids both instantly and over time
Crease-proof once set
Vegan and cruelty-free
Non-comedogenic
Now available in 2 shades NEW Toasted Cinnamon and OG Nude (previously named Universal)

Key Ingredients

MATRIXYL SYNTHE 6 – powerful peptide also known as Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38. Boosts collagen and elastin synthesis and works with the skin’s natural matrix to produce a visible smoothing and lifting effect. Studies have shown it improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, uneven skin tone, and dullness

GATULINE LINK N LIFT – Horse Chestnut Extract works to stimulate cellular dynamism of fibroblasts. Studies show that it reconnects the epidermis with the dermis to reinforce the skin’s structure and reduce wrinkles

SODIUM HYALURONATE – form of Hyaluronic Acid with a smaller molecular size, it helps to plump and firm the delicate eye area, smooths the appearance of the eye lids, and provides long-lasting hydration for an elastic skin surface

SQUALANE – helps maintain moisture in the skin, leaving skin feeling supple and more comfortable. Boosting hydration can help your skin to appear more vibrant and healthier.

REESON Beauty Lid Elixir in Toasted Cinnamon applied:

REESON Beauty Lid Elixir Swatches – Toasted Cinnamon vs OG Nude

REESON Beauty Lid Elixir Swatches - OG Nude & Toasted Cinnamon — REESON Beauty Lid Elixir Swatches – OG Nude & Toasted Cinnamon

How to use the REESON Beauty Lid Elixir

REESON Beauty Lid Elixir - How To Use It — REESON Beauty Lid Elixir – How To Use It

Apply a tiny amount of Lid Elixir directly on to the lids with with either fingertips or a small brush.. You can tap to blend out the edges or blend with a brush. For extra smoothing, try to keep lids closed and still for a few seconds to allow the formula to set.

I like to use it alone, however, you can apply other eye makeup on top as long as you have allowed it to completely dry.

REESON Beauty Lid Elixir in nOG Nude — REESON Beauty Lid Elixir – OG Nude

Lid Elixir Application Video

Where to buy it

The REESON Beauty Lid Elixir is £29 and available in Toasted Cinnamon and OG Nude (previously Universal) now:

What is the difference between OG Nude and Toasted Cinnamon?

OG Nude (formerly known as Universal) is a neutral, pinky-beige shade designed to suit all skin tones. Toasted Cinnamon is a warm, cinnamon-toned nude also developed to suit all skin tones but with a touch more warmth and richness. Toasted Cinnamon is ideal for a summery, bronzed look.

Has the original shade changed in formula?

No. Only the name has changed. The OG Nude shade has the exact same silky serum texture and neutral undertone as the original “Universal” shade.

Which Lid Elixir shade is best for my skin tone?

Both shades have been designed to work with a range of skin tones. They are buildable and flattering, so it’s safe to experiment!

Can I wear Lid Elixir with eyeshadow?

Yes! Lid Elixir works beautifully on its own or as a glossy topper over powder or cream shadows. Just let it set for a few seconds before layering.

Where can I buy the new Toasted Cinnamon shade?

Both Toasted Cinnamon and OG Nude are available to shop directly at REESON Beauty and via links in this post.

June 25, 2025 0 comments

British Beauty

Jane Iredale Skintuition Liquid Foundation SPF 30 Review

by Lina Clémence June 25, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

*Links marked with asterisks are affiliate links, these help Ree with running costs of the blog

Although I haven’t quite found the right shade in this foundation yet, I know that when I do, it is going to be love. Here’s the lowdown on the Jane Iredale Skintuition Liquid Foundation SPF 30.

What is Jane Iredale Skintuition?

Jane Iredale Skintuition Liquid Foundation SPF 30

This is positioned as medium, buildable liquid foundation with physical SPF 30 sun protection. It promises a healthy, skin-like finish.

Lightweight liquid formula
Promises a barely there feel
Medium, buildable coverage
Naturally radiant perfected finish
Shades are designed to stay true all day
Blurs and smooths the appearance of fine lines and texture
Infused with skincare ingredients to hydrate
Uses a physical SPF 30 to protect from the sun
Water-resistant up to 40 minutes

As I haven’t quite found my shade match yet, I am hoping to get a few more shades swatched for you, so stay tuned.

As I said, I haven’t found my perfect match just yet, but I am showing you shade 24 here. As soon as I get a better match, I will share further photos.

My Review

I have to be honest, Jane Iredale has never really been a brand I’ve gravitated towards. It’s not one I ever come across when I’m browsing online, and it definitely hasn’t had much airtime in the UK beauty scene. But when I heard about the new Jane Iredale Skintuition Liquid Foundation SPF 30, I was intrigued. It’s marketed as a skincare-foundation hybrid, and it offers SPF 30.

So I gave it a go and I have to say, from the very first swipe, I was surprisingly impressed.

First Impressions: Application & Texture

Iredale Skintuition Liquid Foundation SPF 30 texture

From the first application, I was really into it. The texture is silky and blendable and it’s not too runny and not too thick. I found that it glides on beautifully with my REESON No. 1 brush which I use for pretty much all my complexion tasks. It delivers a solid medium coverage, and what stood out to me straight away was how incredibly blurring it is. It softened the look of my pores and texture almost instantly.

I haven’t quite found my perfect shade match just yet (I tried shade 24, which is slightly too light for me), but I’ve been making it work beautifully by warming it up with my REESON Beauty Bronzing Balm over the top. Once everything’s blended in, it looks seamless.

Finish: Luminous, Radiant & Skin-Like

One of my favourite things about this foundation is the finish. It’s radiant, but not shiny. Think healthy, fresh, dewy-but-not-greasy skin. It gives that “lit-from-within” glow that I absolutely love and it requires little or no skin prep to get that glowy look.

I find that it doesn’t cling to dry patches, doesn’t sit in fine lines, and doesn’t look cakey or mask-like. Just a super flattering, natural skin finish.

Longevity & Wear Test

What really surprised me was the staying power. On the first day I tried it, I applied it in the morning, ran around all day, and when I looked in the mirror at bedtime, I was pretty impressed. Everything was in place, and my skin looked fresh and smooth.

For something with such a radiant finish, it has amazing longevity. I didn’t need to touch up at all throughout the day. And for reference, I have combination skin, and this held up beautifully with no patchiness, oiliness, or separating.

Who is it Best For?

I think the Jane Iredale Skintuition Foundation is perfect for:

Dry skin types – because of its hydrating, radiant finish.
Mature skin – it doesn’t settle into lines and blurs texture beautifully
Combination skin – like mine, especially if you love a glow

Oily skin types might need a bit of powder in the T-zone, but the formula itself isn’t overly greasy or slippery.

If you need any guidance on which products to choose for your skin, read How to Choose the Right Foundation for Your Skin Type.

Final Thoughts: Do I Recommend It?

Even though Jane Iredale isn’t a brand I’d typically reach for, this foundation has really impressed me. The Jane Iredale Skintuition Liquid Foundation gives you radiant, healthy-looking skin, blurs imperfections, and lasts all day. The only downside for me is not finding my ideal shade match (yet!), but I’ll definitely be exploring more of the range.

If you’re after a skincare-foundation hybrid that looks and feels like real skin and holds up beautifully throughout the day, this is absolutely worth checking out.

June 25, 2025 0 comments

Canadian Beauty

Five on Friday – October 25, 2024 ~ Calgary Farmyard, The Pumpkin Spice Cafe Book Review, Calgary First Responders Run, Make Me A Mixtape Book Review, and

by Lina Clémence June 25, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

Happy Friday everyone – I hope you all have a great week!

ONE

Make Me A Mixtape was received as a review copy

This past weekend we enjoyed a little pumpkin patch at the Calgary Farmyard – it was so much fun! There was so many great activities for us and the kids and the weather was fantastic. It’s been a great Fall here in Calgary!

TWO

Time for another fun book review for The Pumpkin Spice Cafe by Laurie Gilmore – 4 stars! This was a cute Fall romance with a little bit of spice in it! It’s got the small town setting, a coffee shop with a new to town owner, a hot farmer and great new friendship vibes too! Honestly, felt like that nice warm feeling you get while drinking a PSL and it just a cute read – i loved that it had a little bit of who-dunnit to help the story along! I always love a cozy read, but Fall and Winter are perfect to snuggle up with a good cozy book!

THREE

Last weekend I also ran in the First Responders Run – I did another 5k. It’s not anything crazy, but it’s still the third 5k I’ve ran this year and it was my best time so it was a great day!

FOUR

And, another book review! This time for Make Me A Mixtape by Jennifer Whiteford – 3.5/4 stars. This is a fun Fall romance with a coffee shop setting that feels perfect for Fall and Winter vibes! Our main character used to be in a punk rock band, but she’s now content recording music, while living above and working for her Aunt’s coffee shop. She’s delivering coffee and the guy recognizes her – they become quick friends and the romance goes from there. I loved the side characters and the plot line itself, I did struggle a little to connect with the fairly wholesome male character, but it was a cute change from what we typically see a cute easy read with good friendships and musical touches!

FIVE

And, speaking of runs – I have been adding up my kms of running and indoor biking all year and I’ve finally got up to 300+ kms for this amazing medal from The Conquerer. This is such a cool medal and it’s amazing!

I hope you all have an amazing weekend!

June 25, 2025 0 comments

Plus Size Fashion

Wave Garden Spa Review – Ixora Hotel Wales

by Lina Clémence June 24, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

After an exciting Wales road trip exploring castles, coastlines, and tearooms, we couldn’t have ended on a better note than with a visit to the Wave Garden Spa at the Ixora Hotel & Spa. It was always the plan to go in the spa just before we started our journey home, so that I could fully enjoy myself without having to worry about my red hair. It’s been a while since I reviewed a spa so be sure to go see my other reviews!

Wave Garden Spa Review – Ixora Hotel Wales

First Impressions

Set against the backdrop of the stunning Welsh countryside, the Wave Garden Spa at the Ixora Hotel & Spa immediately made us exhale. You’re surrounded by mountains, forests, and the kind of quiet that I can only dream of finding in everyday life. There was so much outdoor space and it was utilised really well with lots of comfortable loungers and seating options.

The spa does have it’s own access but you can also get to it via the Ixora Hotel lobby.

Wave Garden Spa Facilities:

This is where the Wave Garden Spa really shines. You’ve got:

I’m a water baby so I spent most of my time in the outdoor pool before heading to the hydrotherapy pool. The views are unreal, whether you’re in the pool or just sat wrapped up in your robe, it’s total peace. We headed there for opening at 9am and had the first hour completely alone which was really special, so I would definitely recommend this.

We didn’t have any treatments but we definitely will if we go again.

Accessibility

As an ambulatory wheelchair user, I’ve learned to do my research before booking anywhere. The good news? Ixora Hotel takes accessibility seriously, and you can tell it’s been thought through. The Wave Garden Spa did fall a little short though. There’s a designated accessible changing room and shower, but it was full of storage baskets. I did ask about this and they do move them when someone tells them they’ll need to use the accessible changing room, but hidden disabilities exist and I don’t think you should have to ask for it to be accessible.

The spa itself is step-free right for everything except the pools. That’s where things are a little trickier, there are no pool hoists and the steps into the hydrotherapy and infinity pools are very high, but if you’re ambulatory, there are rails on both sides. So I found it very doable but lots of people wouldn’t.

I just found it a bit strange as there are quite a lot of accessible rooms and it feels like accessibility has really been thought about here so I really feel like the spa should and easily could reflect that too. By keeping the changing room clear at all times and getting a pool hoist.

That said, the robes are XL and actually fit, which doesn’t actually happen often. I’m a size 20 and Alfie’s a 2XL and we both felt comfortable. I don’t think they’d fit anyone bigger though which is a real shame.

Would We Go Back?

Absolutely. There’s just something special about this place. It’s calm, it’s beautiful, and it doesn’t try too hard, it just is good. And while a few accessibility tweaks (like a pool hoist and accessible changing room being cleared at all times) would make it perfect, the overall atmosphere and thoughtful details make it one of our new favourites.

We left the Wave Garden Spa feeling refreshed, restored, and already plotting our next visit. If you’re heading to North Wales and looking for a spa that blends nature, peace, and serious spa features, Ixora Hotel & Spa is the one.

June 24, 2025 0 comments