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Spring

British Beauty

How to Update Your Home for Spring

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence


As the days grow longer and our spring bulbs begin to bloom, it’s the perfect time to refresh your home for spring. Updating your home for spring doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive; a few simple updates can bring in light, colour, and a fresh feeling that reflects the beauty of the season. Here are some easy ways to give your space a spring makeover!

 

Declutter and Deep Clean

Spring is synonymous with renewal, making it the ideal time to declutter and deep clean your home. I’d recommend decluttering bit by bit; tackling one area at a time, such as tackling your pantry cupboard on a Saturday morning, taking a break then tackling your beauty products in the afternoon. You could also pack away any winter decor, take unwanted items to a local charity shop, and give your home a thorough cleaning. Open all of your windows and doors to let in fresh air and natural light while you work!

 

Bring the Outdoors in

Embrace nature by incorporating fresh flowers and greenery within your home. Whether it’s a bouquet of tulips on the dining table, some freshly potted spring bulbs dotted around your living room or a potted shrub on your hallway table, bringing nature into your home instantly breathes life into a space. If you have any house plants, now could be a good time to give them a refresh too – move them into a larger pot if needed, refresh their compost so they have plenty of nutrients, and trim any dead or infected leaves.

 


 

Update Your Decor

Introduce bright and cheerful colours into your home by swapping out your homeware such as cushion covers, vases, artwork and crockery. Small decor swaps can make a big impact! Try to incorporate decorative accents in light and bright spring shades such as butter yellow, green, or pale pink.

Don’t underestimate the impact of swapping out your cushion covers; trading heavy materials in dark colours to light fabrics such as linen in a paler colour can be all your living room needs to feel fresher. This switch can be very inexpensive, plus storing a spare set of cushion covers should be easy, even if you’re tight on storage space.

Switch out Your Home Scents

If you’ve still got winter candles dotted around your home, filling the air with scents such as orange, cinnamon and clove,  try updating your candle and diffuser scents to something fresher, perhaps involving citrus scents and delicate florals. If you have an essential oil diffuser, like my fantastic diffuser from Aromatherapy Associates, switch out the essential oils you’re using, choosing more spring-like scents.

 


 


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Sustainable Fashion

5 Ways to Help Wildlife this Spring – Literally Nataly

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence


Spring is a magical time of year filled with wonder and light. The days stretch longer, wrapping us in their warm embrace, while nature comes alive with a flurry of activity. It is a time of year where many species begin preparing for a new breeding season. But the changes in climate and weather patterns mean that animals are waking up at different times than they used to, so insects might emerge before the plants they need to feed on, or birds before the insects that make up their food supply. Luckily there are individual and collective actions that we can take to help wildlife through this transition. Below are 5 tips to offer invaluable support to some of our most beloved species.

Plant for pollinators: You can help them by planting wildflower seed balls. These are simple to cultivate and care for, and can be dispersed in any location, including a 30cm container on a balcony or doorstep. They are capable of germinating in as little as four weeks. With 30 seeds packed into each small ball, this simple action can create a valuable stepping stone for passing pollinators.

Mow lawns less frequently: our lawns are mini wildlife reserves and the longer the grass, the more species it houses. Insects and invertebrates are an important food source for birds and common lawn plants like clover and dandelion can be a lifesaver for bees and butterflies.

Keep topping up bird feeders: many people recognise that feeding birds can help them through tough winter conditions, but it’s equally important in spring. Early in the season, the nights can still be freezing and the natural larder remains sparse. Extra food can help restore birds to good condition for breeding and provide energy to mate, nest and raise chicks, especially if the weather is cold or wet.

Explore woodland mindfully: Spring is a fantastic time to explore the great outdoors as nature bounces back to life and shows off all its new colours and textures. You can help wildlife during your visit, including ground nesting birds and precious flowers, with simple actions like sticking to paths, keeping dogs on leads and taking litter home.

Obey speed limits: Watch out for animals crossing the road and take responsibility for an animal if you hit it with your car. The risk of encountering an animal on the road is greatest during dawn and dusk, as animals often travel in search of food at these hours. Learn more about wildlife behaviours in your surrounding so that you can try and avoid these types of accidents. For example, deer rarely travel alone, if you see one deer, there are likely to be several more on their way.

Wishing you all a happy Spring – you have made it through the darkest part of the year! And even though it is still cold in some places around the world, things will soon change. Enjoy the coming of the sun and please make sure to take actions to respect and support the wildlife around you.

*Some of the images in this post have been taken from Unsplash, a platform for free to use, high-definition photos.



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Women's Fashion

Spring Porch Refresh with Grandin Road – Edit by Lauren

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence


Spring is in the air and patio season is here! I just refreshed our back porch by adding new pillows, rugs and faux flowers from Grandin Road. You may recall I partnered with Grandin Road in the Fall for new furniture and new fire-pit area. Check out this post for that reveal.

I am always drawn to black and white “resort” vibes when it comes to outdoor spaces. I added some pops of green and pink for color. It’s incredible how changing out rugs and pillows for the new season can totally transform a space. Grandin Road has such an incredible quality outdoor pillows and rugs at an affordable price point. This new Macey Outdoor Pom Pillow is just the cutest!

 

This Portland Woven outdoor furniture is SO comfortable and holds up amazingly in all weather! I love that these oversized chairs swivel. Our guests compliment how cozy these pieces are each time we entertain.

We enjoy this outdoor table several times a week during patio season! The table is lightweight, aluminum frame with durable powdercoat finish that looks like real wood! The chairs have built in cushioning for comfort. Grandin Road has a nice selection of umbrellas, too!

We also love to entertain around our Fulton Fire Pit. These stunning All-natural Teak Outdoor Adirondack Chairs are fantastic for any back yard!

Shop my full Grandin Road outdoor setup here! Happy patio season, friends!

 



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Beauty

Protect, Brighten and Bronze: My Approach To Spring Skin

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence


In the UK, the weather has been optimistically sunny. And while it’s only a matter of time until the spring showers arrive (Brits aren’t as optimistic), it’s time to recalibrate my skincare wardrobe. As I’ve mentioned previously, I’m a creature of habit, so I don’t tend to change much up. But my capsule spring skincare arsenal must do the following: protect, brighten, and bronze. It’s simple, streamlined, and, most importantly, effective.

Glossier Invisible Shield Daily Sunscreen SPF 35, £20

I usually can’t bear an extra step of applying sunscreen. But it’s non-negotiable. Glossier Invisible Shield Daily Sunscreen is an SPF but not as we know it. Its serum-like consistency is unrecognisable from your traditionally thick, chalky sunscreen. It’s really light, fresh, and it doesn’t interfere with whatever I apply on top. My only gripe is it’s £20 for 30ml – but can you put a price on protection? When things heat up, I’ll switch to a higher dose of SPF. 

Kora Organics Noni Bright Vitamin C Serum, £60

I’m obsessed with Kora Organics Noni Bright Vitamin C Serum, it’s the best. Not only do I appreciate its formulation of 12% ascorbyl glucoside (the most stable and water-soluble derivative of vitamin C), which is scientifically proven to block free radicals and pollution, its texture is loveable and lightweight, too. I’ve used every last drop of SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic, which is hailed as the gold standard of vitamin C serums, but Noni Bright is better. Big claims, I know. But my skin is brighter, smoother, firmer, and more even, all without irritation. And unlike SkinCeuticals, it doesn’t smell like hot dogs, rather a glass of fizzy orange. It’s satisfying to use and half the price. 

Oskia Nutri-Bronze Adaptive Sheer Tinted Serum, £58

If you like to look like you have perfectly even and sunkissed skin without wearing an ounce of makeup, this is a must-have. The Oskia Nutri-Bronze Adaptive Sheer Tinted Serum takes the edge off of any redness and under-eye bags and makes my skin look like it has nothing on it at all. It’s also enriched with a whole host of ingredients from hyaluronic acid and pro-vitamin B5 to plump and hydrate, to bakuchiol the natural alternative to retinol. I use one to two drops, applied directly to my skin to minimise waste by way of my hands.

What skincare products are you wearing for spring?

SHOP THE POST



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Women's Fashion

Spring 2025 Refresh Accessories – Denim Is the New Black

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence


I start thinking about spring clothes right after Christmas is over. I’m sharing everything currently on my radar, a Spring 2025 Refresh Accessories.

Shopbop is one of my very favorite stores for the brilliant mix of high and low and even better the fast and free shipping and returns (and refunds). They also carry my favorite brand, Tibi, YES! (And no, Shopbop doesn’t sponsor me, but I do get a small commission for things purchased with my links, no cost to you.)

Some good news…
Converse are back!

Always in style: Black Converse

For me, they never left, but dang, they are definitely trending big time right now. And that’s good because a) they are affordable and b) they come in so many great styles and colors for every personality.

You can see all Converse at Shopbop here, but I have a few favorites! I partly love Converse because they are classic and cool but also you can try something fun for a low price.

I generally stay TTS or 1/2 size down in Converse, as I find them to run a bit roomy.

Left: Converse Vintage | Middle: Converse Silver | Right: Converse Run Star

Autry Sneakers

I’ve been introduced to the Autry brand thanks to seeing Katie Holmes in them all over instagram. The thing is, they are fabulously down-to-earth court shoes and at a reasonable price (and yes, I know that reasonable is subjective).

Katie Holmes Autry Sneakers @getty images

@Getty Images

I have been searching for a good court shoe to wear this spring and summer, and these are currently my top choice. I love that they are simple and classic but have interest. Ordering to try!

There are a ton of variety and colors with Autry, but I am a minimalist with sneakers and white is my top choice!

Autry Medalist

Autry Medalist (Shopbop)

There are also some great basic Autry Medalist at Nordstrom. From reviews, I will size up 1/2, as I normally do with sneakers!

I usually focus on the most basic clothing pieces — button down shirts, good tees and tanks, and strapless tops. I literally wear the same things over and over. The easiest way to spice up those basics is with jewelry!

Completedworks

My daughter gifted me with Completedworks earrings for Christmas, and I’m now absolutely smitten with this brand. There are only a few easy-to-shop stores that carry Completedworks – Olivela.com, FWRD.com, Saks.com, and Net-a-Porter.com.

They are not super cheap, but they add such a punch, I think highly worth the price. And they are lightweight.

Obsessed and want with these two necklaces.

Completedworks Necklaces

Left: Completedworks Pearl Necklace | Right: Completedworks Chalcedony Necklace

My top sale picks are below. This is the chance to get Completedworks at a huge discount, before they sell out for good. This brand produces only so many pieces and then they move onto something new, so once they are gone, they are often gone for good.

Hint: Watch for occasional sales on Completedworks at all the above stores!

Completedworks Sale

Left: Green Earrings | Middle: Mixed Necklace | Right: Mismatched Earrings (have and love)

Roxanne Assoulin

White Lace Dress With Sleeves - Farm Rio Tropical Wind

Flower Patch Necklaces

My other favorite summer necklaces have all come from Roxanne Assoulin. I’ve worn them almost exclusively the last three summers, and they are also super affordable and add the perfect pop of fun and color to an otherwise basic outfit.

This sale necklace would be the perfect addition to my Flower Patch Necklaces (and any beaded necklace, really), and it’s on deep discount (final sale).

Roxanne Assoulin Little Bits Charm Necklace

Little Bits Charm Necklace (final sale)

Elsie Frieda

I have not yet tried this brand, but Elsie Frieda have a similar vibe to Roxanne Assoulin, and I’m totally down for it.

IMO, summer is the time to break out of the boring jewelry.

Elsie Frieda Jewelry

Left: Necklace | Right: Bracelet Bundle

Hat Attack

I love a good woven bag, and this is the first one I’ve seen that’s crossbody! I love how woven bags add texture and are super lightweight. I’ve taken mine shopping and to the beach (and it just shakes out the sand in seconds).

I’m so impressed with all Hat Attack’s bags on Shopbop. They are affordable and have great colors and texture!

Hat Attack Crossbody

Hat Attack Woven Crossbody

I bought a green bag last summer, almost identical to this blue one, and I used it so much. Add a little zipper pouch inside to make sure the small items don’t fall out.

Hat Attack Lizzie Cotton Small Bag

Hat Attack Small Lizzie Cotton Bag

Cult Gaia

Date night in the summer? No problem. This is the bag I’ve been eyeing and plan to finally snag. Gold is just so perfect for warm summer days. I’m a little obsessed with this one.

Cult Gaia Rue Wristlet

Cult Gaia Rue Wristlet

Clare V.

Finally, can’t forget my many-years-favorite, Clare V. I’ve written about Clare V. too many times to count. Mine all still look as new as the day I bought them.

The Clare V. Pot de Miel bags are still an absolute favorite that I use multiple times a week. The good news is they now come in multiple colorways! This bag is also a favorite of celebrities like Reese Witherspoon.

Clare V. Pot de Miel bags

Clare V. Pot de Miel bags

Clarev Sandy Tote

Clare V. Sandy Tote (multiple colors)

And that’s it for now, folks. My picks for Spring 2025 Refresh Accessories. But it’s also early in the season and I’ll be sure to report back and new favorite things catch my attention.

x Tammy

Related Articles:
Clare V Pot de Miel – #1 Favorite Summer Bag
It’s Official – Converse Back for Spring 2025 (Who What Wear)

 



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Asian Beauty

Product Review: Organique by Olinda Spring Whitening Skincare

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence


The entire world is hopping onto the organic skincare trend, and for good reason. Products that are organic are safe for the skin, less likely to irritate sensitive skins, and gentle, yet effective. Today I’m reviewing a range of organic whitening products, so if you’re looking for bright, luminous, clear skin – you’re in the right place (or at least, reading the right article). Here we go.
Product

Organique by Olinda Spring is a skincare brand that formulates their products using the natural spring waters of Olinda, in Mt. Dandenong, Australia. The waters are not only naturally filtered and pure, they’re also mineral rich and supposedly good for health and highly beneficial to your skin. They’ve been making waves in Australia and beyond with their effective, natural, and affordable skincare, and they have, happily, reached Malaysian shores.
I received their entire whitening range. In this Whitening range there is the Gentle Cleanser, Multi-Active Toner, Facial Serum, Day Care Lotion, and Eye Cream. The range utilises Magnolia extract – high in antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, and prevents UV-induced pigmentation.
I have been using and testing the products over the past 3 weeks. My skin at the beginning of my trial was pretty good – dehydrated, but clear and even. I did have freckles and sun spots around my cheekbones and temples, and I was hoping to reduce their appearance with continued use of this range.
Packaging

What struck me immediately about Organique’s packaging was the high quality, despite the product’s price point. The bottles are made of a beautiful frosted glass and have the weight and feel of a luxury product. The pumps and covers all function beautifully and smoothly, and in these 3 weeks of use their functionality has remained top notch. I was incredibly pleased and impressed.
Performance
As is expected when you receive an entire range, I used all the products together in my daily skincare routine, only swapping out the day cream for a heavier, more hydrating moisturiser (the one I was using daily before trialling this range) at night.


The cleanser is foaming but doesn’t give you the kind of crazy foam that you get from most – I personally prefer this because I feel it doesn’t strip the skin as much.

I expected the lotion and day cream to be heavy and sticky, but they were both very lightweight and absorbed into the skin very quickly. My entire experience using the range was delightful and refreshing. The eye cream was slightly heavier, but still very lightweight, and almost felt like a heavier serum instead of a cream. This range is mildly scented, but I found it quite pleasant and the smell disappeared pretty quickly after application.
Verdict

After my 3 weeks of use, I’ve found that my skin is brighter and more luminous – there is this glow about it when it’s photographed, and my skin is less flaky in the dry areas around my cheeks and mouth. I haven’t noticed a significant reduction in the darkness of my freckles and sun spots, though I do think this range is much more effective at preventing the development of new spots than it is for removing pre-existing spots.
In my opinion, this is a beautiful starter range for anyone looking to begin an affordable, complete whitening skincare routine. It covers all the bases – great value for money, good hydration, good protection for the skin. If you’re looking to solve a more serious pigmentation problem, you might want to look at more extreme options instead (e.g. laser or peeling treatments).
This range retails at the below prices and is currently available at www.organique-skincare.com.my and I have a promo code! Enter EMILY20 for 20% off at checkout on their site.
Gentle Cleanser RM69
Multi-Active Toner RM79
Facial Serum RM129
Day Care Lotion RM89
Eye Cream RM99



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