Twelve52

Beauty - Ila Glowing Radiance

2012-02-23T19:34:00.002Z

There's a reason why roses are so well loved and that's simply because they smell heavenly. You can try to deny your love for roses all you like, but I would bet that if a beautiful rose fragrance is wafted under your nose you go as gooey as the next person. Everybody goes weak over a rose beauty product.

There are hundreds and hundreds of rose beauty goodies to choose from - they're everywhere - but for a truly decadent, earthy and and rich option may I introduce you to Ila's Glowing Radiance range. Namely, the Body Cream and and Bath Oil which I have been happily saturating myself in for the past two months.

Ila's Glowing Radiance products combine Damascan Rose Otto with Tuberose for a wonderfully unique floral fragrance. Forget that sweetly artificial scent which you may well be used to... this is heady and deep. It's like dousing yourself in the scent of an English country garden; fresh, herbal and fantastically soothing. You want to breathe it in and let the fragrance fill your lungs.

The bath oil is just what the skin and senses need for those times when you desperately need some 'me time'. Lock that bathroom door, get the bath running and prepare to soak up the delicious aroma. The oil turns into a nourishing milk when it hits the water which softens the skin beautifully.

Finish with a healthy dose of the Body Cream. This is a beautiful body moisturiser - with a bit of massage it seeps into the skin in no time and the added Argan Oil and Shea Butter gets straight to work at creating deliciously smooth skin. After a few days of using this my skin was thanking me for it, there's a reason it's called Body Cream for Glowing Radiance - it makes my skin luminous.

It's important to take time to treat yourself. It's OK to show your body and mind that you love it too! What better way to say I love you with decadent, rosy body products from Ila. Go on, you deserve it.

Cocktails - Pink Margarita

2012-02-22T14:41:00.000Z

A little birdy otherwise known as Twitter has informed me that today is National Margarita Day in the good old U.S of A. Now I adore a good margarita, so the fact that I'm a British girl living in Dubai and have nothing to do with the States at all is not going to stop me from celebrating. I'm firmly with our American cousins on this one.

Pink Margarita

30ml fresh lime juice (save one of the rinds)

90ml pink grapefruit juice

30ml tequila

30ml Cointreau

2 tbsp coarse salt

Rub the wet side of the lime rind you saved around the edge of a martini glass. Place the salt in a dish and dip the glass in - it will cling to the juice.

Shake all ingredients with ice and then strain or if you don't have a cocktail shaker mix in a jug with ice then strain through a sieve. Then go online and buy a cocktail shaker.

For a frozen margarita, whack the ingredients in a blender with ice. Yum!

If you feel fancy, garnish your drink with a wedge of lime or grapefruit.

Happy Valentine's Day

2012-02-14T19:22:00.000Z

Happy Valentine's Day from all of us at Twelve52! We don't exactly believe in saving your love up for just one day in a dreary February, but we do believe in chocolate. Here are my favourite cocoa picks. Share them, give them away or scoff them all yourselves - there's no judgement here.

1. Hotel Chocolat Sealed With a Kiss Chocolate Box - because I don't care what you say, everyone wants to eat truffles out of a huge heart shaped box.

2. Artisan du Chocolat Silver South Sea Pearls - why have real pearls when you can have edible pearls?

3. Cocoa Bean Chocolate Co. Sea Salt Dark Chocolate - posh, but in a bar so ideal for stuffing down in one sitting. There's only one wrapper to hide, after all.

4. Berry Scrumptious Strawberry Signature Gift Box - goes well with champers. Need I say more?

5. Prestat Milk Chocolate Pink Marc de Champagne Truffles - pretty, pink and laced with posh booze. Hello, lover...

Food - Coconut Hot Chocolate

2012-02-09T07:58:00.001Z

After making a Thai curry a couple of days ago I found myself with half a can of coconut milk left over which needed rapidly using up before it went bad. I decided that it would make an incredible and creamy hot drink.

I thought about mixing heated coconut milk with spices, honey and even rum, but in the end I chose the simplest option. So often with food it's the simplest choice which tastes the best.

I grabbed some cocoa and got to work on my first ever coconut hot chocolate. It was an obvious choice really, coconut and chocolate go so well together (hello, Bounty); they're the perfect match.

So, next time you have some left over, unloved coconut milk about to start fermenting in the fridge. Treat yourself to this rich, deep cocoa. Though it comes with a warning; you'll be heartbroken when you've drunk it all. Trust me.

Ingredients

200ml Coconut Milk (Go for organic if you can)
100ml Semi-Skimmed Milk or any milk of your choice
2 tsp Cocoa Powder
2 tsp light brown sugar or to taste
Tablespoon boiling water

Method

Place the coconut milk and semi-skimmed milk in a saucepan and gently heat till warmed through, don't let it start boiling. As the milk warms up, grab a mug and add the cocoa powder, brown sugar and boiling water, stirring together to make a thin paste - use more water if needed. Add the cocoa paste to the milk and stir in. For extra marks, you could grate a bit of dark chocolate over the top.

Pour into a big mug and enjoy snuggled on the sofa, ideally under a thick blanket.

Beauty - Valentine's Treats

2012-02-08T09:07:00.002Z

Clockwise from top left; Ilamasqua False Eye Lashes 017, Daniel Sandler Watercolour Blush in Flush, Dior Garden Clutch Palette in Milly Garden, Urban Decay Lip Love in Drizzle, Yes to Carrots Lip Tint in Ready Red, Priti NYC Nail Polish in September Charm

The best thing about Valentine's in my opinion? The makeup. Actually, scratch that. It's the plentiful amount of excuses to buy makeup. Whether it's because you've finally scored that hot date with the man of your dreams, you want to show your long standing other half that you've still got it, or you're giving two fingers to the whole affair and treating yourself to some new goodies - right now is a good time to hit the beauty hall hard.

When it comes to buying cosmetics in the month of love, the prettier the better. Even if 11 months out of the year I'm drawn to smoky neutrals, copper, brown and beige, February is when my inner girly girl comes out to play. Suddenly I'm drawn to marshmallow pink, barely-there pastels, plum and raspberry. Maybe even a touch of silver highlighter in the inner V of the eye, or navy liner instead of black. Even though I may not be feeling very romantic, I still want to look the part. Essentially, I am a marketers dream.

So above are my top picks from the lip soothing and nourishing Yes to Carrots Lip Tint which packs a punch of red more vivid than you might imagine to the fluttering lashes from Ilamasqua which are simply made for flirty glances across crowded bars.

Oh and that covetable Dior Milly Garden Clutch? If anyone is interested, I would love to be handed it on Valentine's. Go on Cupid, do your stuff.

Travel - Hazlitt's Hotel, London

2012-02-02T10:49:00.000Z

There's little more romantic than booking a last minute break in a hotel for a couple of days and you needn't go far to get away from it all. Hazlitt's Hotel in the West End of London is the ideal spot for a bit of staycation love.

Nestled within three 18th-century houses in deepest Soho, Hazlitt's is central enough to have London's best shopping, bars and restaurants on the doorstep whilst hidden enough away to be a step back from the rat race. With in-room massages and beauty treatments, as well as flowers and chocolates available on request, there is certainly a romantic getaway vibe to the place.

All rooms, without exception, are sumptuous and gorgeous. Most bedrooms have free-standing, claw footed baths for soaking in and using up the heavenly REN products which come as standard. For a sizeable slice of luxury then book yourself into a suite - the Duke of Monmouth suite (pictured above) has an outdoor terrace complete with a retractable roof for catching sunny London days from your own little plot of heaven.

Hazlitt's Hotel, 6 Frith Street Soho Square, London, W1D 3JA

Food - Biscuiteers

2012-02-01T12:52:00.000Z

I've always been a great Biscuiteers fiend. This delicious company creates extremely tasty handmade biscuits in a number of shapes and themes.

You can order their single card biscuits or whole tin of goodies, needless to say they make amazing presents and they never fail to impress whenever I have sent a box to a lucky friend.

Biscuiteers have created an utterly delectable and fabulous looking range of biccies for Valentines Day, which is bound to tempt even the most die hard anti-Valentines soul. From the saucy Dita Von Ginger to the simple but sweet 'guess who?' heart, all the designs are smile inducing. Which would you choose?

Editor's Letter - February

2012-02-01T07:43:00.000Z

It was touch and go there for a minute, but we survived January. We tried, failed and forgot about our New Year's Resolutions, had a go at losing those extra Christmas pounds and did our best at not spending too much after all that present buying and party hopping. We did it!

February is finally here. We've had our first pay check of the year and some of us have even booked a summer holiday to look forward to. The next stop on the calender is of course Valentines Day, and in honour of the occasion this month's edition is 'Love'.

There'll be heart fluttering Valentines Day gifts, romantic destinations and oh so sweet beauty treats, but we'll also be delving into other areas of love. From how to love your own company, the love of being single and recipes you'll never stop loving.

As always, there's something for everyone but this February there's certainly love in the air at Twelve52.

Fashion - Bright and Bold Exercise Gear

2012-01-31T13:03:00.002Z

Clockwise from left; Adidas by Stella McCartney Run Mesh Leggings, Reebok ET Taped Tee, Lucas Hugh Babel Bodysuit, ASICS Kayano 18 Trainers, Sweaty Betty Skipping Rope.

I mentioned last week that dressing for exercise needn't be just practical, you can show off your personal style and give yourself a confidence boost at the same time. Why not add some bright and bold shades to your work out gear and be the cheeriest fitness bunny on the block?

Fitness - Health Club TV

2012-01-31T12:16:00.001Z

The gym. Two words which can strike fear into the hearts of men and women the world over. Alright, some people love it - the equipment, the escapism, the atmosphere... I however, am not one of them. I go the gym begrudgingly and with great effort.

It's difficult to find the time to get out there and do a workout, let alone find the motivation. I much prefer working out at home, privately, at my own pace and in my own time.

But where do you begin without proper instruction? Fitness DVDs can be great to start with, but there are always exercises which you'd rather bypass or you don't need, and the routine quickly grows old and boring. Wouldn't it be so much better if you could build your own workout video, whenever you wanted, and could follow it through at any time? HealthClubTV allows you to do just that.

HealthClubTV is a website packed full with exercise clips which are ready to be downloaded so that you can create your own, tailored work out routine. It's like having your own personal trainer at a fraction of the cost, who is ready to go whenever you can squeeze in some exercise. There's a whole host of exercises to choose from; yoga, pilates, aerobics, dancing, strength training, martial arts... the list goes on and on.

You can even download the workouts to your mobile phone, so if you're a jet setter or on the move a lot you can take your exercises wherever you go. With a portable gym in your pocket, there's really no excuse not to get fit and healthy this year.

Health - Life Water

2012-01-30T10:14:00.000Z

Drinking water is important. We know this. We know that dehydration can cause headaches, fatigue, loss of concentration and dizziness, not to mention crêpey, dull and wrinkly skin - GASP!

The trouble is, a lot of us are busy, busy bees. We buzz from one thing to the next with barely a breath in between and it's not that easy to stop and pour ourselves a glass of water. So, we opt for the easy option - the bottled goods. We can stuff it in our handbags and sip it as we fly around, doing our thing.

There's an issue here though. The carbon footprint behind a bottle of water can be huge. There can be a stupidly long way for water to come when we have a healthy supply ready to come out the taps, or if you love your mineral water, sources of water much closer to home.

Cue Life Water, a company founded by eco-entrepreneurs Simon Konecki and Lucas White. Life water is not only sourced in Britain, it is carbon neutral and housed in a 100% recyclable bottle. If that's not good enough for you, Life Water sales support Simon and Lucas's own charity Drop4Drop, funding vital clean water projects throughout the world. In fact, up to an enormous 1000 litres of clean drinking water can be provided to developing countries for every bottle of Life Water sold.

So, next time you're picking up a handy bottle of water to quench your thirst when you're on the run, why not skip your usual brand and try something new. You could just save a few lives.

Available at over 700 stockists nationwide, or online from Planet Organic.

Books - Green is the New Black

2012-01-26T08:01:00.000Z

When I first heard this month’s theme was ‘Health Kick’, I was a little stumped on how to relate this to reading. My mind kept wandering to self-help and diet books: a genre that doesn’t feature heavily on my book shelf, with none that I’d actively recommend.

So I started thinking in terms of life improvement. Has a book changed my way of thinking? Has a book changed my lifestyle? Has a book improved my emotional health? Yes, yes, yes!

‘Green is the New Black’ by Tamsin Blanchard is not a new book (first published in 2007) but one I’ve dipped in to many times over the last few years.

Outlining all the ways we can make a fashionable lifestyle eco-friendly, this isn’t a book suggesting we recycle potato sacks for dresses – it’s practical ideas for making our shopping habits less environmentally damaging. Vogue called it a ‘must-read’, so Blanchard must know what she’s talking about.

Sharing tips in sustainable style, secrets from fashion icons and fabulous ideas to ‘create your own’, the book covers all the ways we can easily take the guilt out of fashion. It’s the sort of book that leaves you wondering why you hadn’t been doing all of this sooner, and it’s written in such a lively, entertaining style that it’s a pleasure to read.

These days I always look for organic cotton; I shop handmade, vintage and second-hand without hesitation, and I’m always looking for new ways to revamp and recycle old garments. Don’t get me wrong, I still shop on the highstreet and I still love a new pair of shoes – but gaining the knowledge to make your choices less damaging is something that will stay with you, and this book is the perfect place to start.

Many of us feel motivated to self-improve in January, but far less will extend this to the world around them. ‘Green is the New Black’ carries the slogan “how to change the world with style” – so if your resolution was to drop a dress size, why not feel even better by making your brand new wardrobe greener too?

Have you read this book? Are you interested in making your shopping habits more ethical?

By Nikki Walker

Beauty - Aromatherapy Associates Overnight Repair Mask

2012-01-25T10:42:00.001Z

In my eyes, Aromatherapy Associates can do no wrong. I've loved their products for years and I am utterly devoted to the brand's bath and shower oils. Their facial skincare ranges however have mostly passed me by, and wow... haven't I been missing a trick?!

The Overnight Repair Mask is a gem, plain and simple. A thick cream mask which moisturises and nourishes the skin as you sleep, the formula contains delightful ingredients such as Frankincense, Rose and Strawberry Seed extracts and rice germ oil. This wonderful combination of ingredients works together to boost moisture levels in the skin and aid in collagen production.

The result? A happy, plump and luminous complexion in the morning. It's like a facial whilst you get forty winks. Now that's beauty sleep.

Fashion - Work Out Gear

2012-01-24T15:02:00.002Z

Clockwise from top left; Aegle seamless cami, Damia Knitted Shrug, Adidas Studio Performance Three Quarter Tights, Beurer PM 25 Heart Rate Monitor, Incase Sports Armband Prop for iPod Touch Adidas by Stella McCartney Monogyna Runner.

Whether you like to hit the gym, run round the park or stretch out on a yoga mat, having a stylish kit to wear whilst you exercise can add a bit of extra motivation to your healthy lifestyle.

As with so many things in life, if you feel like you look the part then you're more likely to act the part too. Just started to run? Treat yourself to some springy new trainers and see how it impacts on your best time. Trying to advance in pilates? Invest in that extra thick mat you've been lusting after and enjoy the boost to your work out.

Just because you're buying exercise gear doesn't mean you can't show off your personal style too. Check out the products above for a rock chick look whilst you sweat.

Do you like to look good when you're exercising, or is that the last thing on your mind?

Food - The Smoothie

2012-01-22T08:37:00.001Z

I love a good smoothie. None of that pre-packaged, sugar loaded gloop but home made, healthy, vitamin rich smoothies.

Over the past few months I have become a bit of a smoothie nut and I've been experimenting with different flavours and ingredients. Finally, after many, many taste tests I've come up with a few staple smoothie recipes. I have one for when I need to feel refreshed, one for post-exercise recovery and one for a hit of energy when I've got a busy day ahead. Give them a go and let me know what you think.

Method: To create these smoothies, simply add all ingredients to a blender and whiz up till smooth, before pouring into a glass to enjoy.

The Energiser - great for breakfast or any time you need a bit more fuel in your tank.

2 tbsp of oats
2 tbsp of organic peanut butter
1 banana
1 cup of milk
1 cup of ice

The Refresher - helps blow the cobwebs away if you're feeling a bit run down. The ample amount of vitamin C is great for hangover sufferers while the yoghurt settles tricky tummies.

1 cup of frozen strawberries
1 cup of orange juice
1/2 cup of milk
1/2 cup of natural yoghurt
Small squeeze of lemon juice

The Healer - works to aid recovery post exercise, giving muscles a protein shot to help them strengthen.

1 cup of frozen raspberries
1 tbsp ground almonds or almond butter
1 scoop chocolate flavoured whey powder
1 1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup vanilla yoghurt
2 tsp honey
1tbsp good oil or coconut oil

Health - Antibac Pen

2012-01-18T08:08:00.000Z

It's so easy to pick up bugs and viruses. From shaking hands and being crammed on metros and trains to sharing pens and kissing cheeks; it's no surprise that so many of us get coughs and colds at this time of year. You could slather your hands in antibacterial gel every ten minutes, or you could do something a little less OCD and just make one small change.

Introducing the Antibac Pen, which contains a unique active agent moulded into it which kills 99.9% of all bacteria. It even kills superbugs like MRSA. The pen's benefits last for the entire length of the pen's lifetime and is not affected by water, UV rays, scratches or wear.

It can't hurt to keep those pesky bugs at bay.

Image of the Day - Dubai at Dusk

2012-01-16T18:55:00.003Z

A typical Dubai scene - skyscrapers, construction cranes and a gorgeous sunset.

Beauty - Top Five Products for Healthy Lips

2012-01-16T15:06:00.003Z

Chapped lips can not only put a damper on your look, but they can be horribly sore and painful too. It can be a real struggle to sort out dry lips at this time of the year as cold weather, drying heating and blustering wind and rain can make matters so much worse. So, what can you do? Well, check out our top five products which will help take cracked puckers to smooth, plump pouts once again.

1. ZINC - If you've been layering on lip balms like there's no tomorrow and not getting much of a result, you could be suffering from a Zinc deficiency. Zinc helps build and repair cells and tissues in our bodies, including those skin cells on our lips. It is therefore vital in creating healthy skin and healing it when it becomes damaged. Get yourself a supplement or enjoy zinc rich foods such as red meat, shellfish and sesame seeds. If you're feeling fancy then why not treat yourself to some oysters, which provide the richest natural source of Zinc - up to 73.06mg per 100g.

2. WATER - I know, it's so boring. We're constantly told to drink water to hydrate our bodies and skin. Well you know what? Our lips are included in that. If you're prone to forgo the water, then it's time to give your kisser a drink.

3. BLISTEX RELIEF CREAM - When my lips are in serious trouble, I call out the big guns. This little baby packs a serious punch against cracking, peeling and chapped lips as well as cold sores. It's also pretty cheap for the power it beholds, but is only meant for occasional use. I salute you, Blistex.

4. AVON ANEW LIP PLUMPING CONDITIONER - This silky lip conditioner contains a healthy dose of retinol, an ingredient which is famous for it's ability to regenerate and exfoliate skin cells as well as help build collagen (the stuff which makes skin plump and wrinkle free). I love this product for it's ability to soften and slough away gruesome lip calluses and dry patches. Oh, hello super smooth lips!

5. NUXE REVE DE MIEL - A heavy, honey balm with a matte texture, this is superb as a primer underneath lipstick. It won't allow lippy to dry out your mouth and, because it's not slippery, your lipstick won't slide away within five minutes. The texture takes a bit of getting used to, but I love it as an overnight treatment as it stays in place till morning.

Twelve52.com - The Charity Initiative

2012-01-13T07:47:00.001Z

I have always had a great deal of respect for people who set up, run and work for charities as well as the fundraisers who keep them going. Making money for charity has always been one of those things that I always said I would get around to doing one day, but so far I haven't done much more than replace my wedding favours with donations to St Oswald's Hospice.

When our online magazine Twelve52.com launches, I am making a change.

Each month, I will be featuring a chosen charity on Twelve52.com. Each new edition will start with a guest post from either an industry expert, journalist, blogger or celebrity who has picked a 'Charity of the Month', explaining what it means to them. Later on in the month we'll have either an interview or a guest post from someone within the charity to explain the work that they do and why it is important.

Then we get on to the really good bit. At the end of the year, a percentage of advertising profits (from banner ads, sponsorship and affiliate links) will be split between each charity. The percentage will be a minimum of 5%, but up to 10% depending on our yearly profits.

I am hoping that this will raise awareness of important charities as well as giving them a bit of extra cash to keep up the good work.

To be kept in the loop about Twelve52.com and its launch date and to receive our new product of the week email, please subscribe to our mailing list below and join us on Facebook.

Home - Sparkling Tea Light Holder

2012-01-11T14:04:00.000Z

These sweet and pretty little tea light holders would make a beautiful touch to any room. I can see them sitting proudly in my bathroom, lounge or even my study.

Made from 100% recycled glass, they have been certified by the World Fair Trade Association as they are created in a small cooperative in Northern India. So, you can treat yourself to some sparkly, flickery mood lighting whilst sitting back and feeling great about contributing to a good cause. How's that for your mental wellbeing? Fabulous.

Food - Graze Light Box

2012-01-10T14:00:00.000Z

Graze is a brilliant company which delivers daily packets of tasty but nutritious snacks to nibble on throughout the day.

Each Graze box features four different punnets of food like nuts, dried fruit, crackers and olives. By creating an account, you can let Graze know if there are any nibbles you don't like and any which you really love. Your box will then be hand-picked for you and popped in the post, ready to come through the letter box and be munched on.

The concept is simple - if you're slowly picking at food throughout the day then you maintain your blood sugar levels and don't end up in that dreaded energy slump which could have you reaching for the biscuit tin.

Now, Graze has launched its new light box which features the lowest calorie nibbles they have on offer. Ideal for a virtuous start to 2012 and for those following a weight loss plan, but still love a snack. Everything is between 54 and 146 calories and tastes simply delicious.

Beauty - Shiffa Healing Balm

2012-01-10T08:00:00.000Z

Stress, illness, cold weather, heating, poor diet... the list of causes of unhealthy skin goes on and on doesn't it? Just when you think that your skin has never looked better you get a cold or have a bad week at work and BAM! Your complexion makes an almighty fuss. As part of the Health Kick Edition I'll be divulging some of my favourite products for getting your skin back to its former glory and keeping it happy, no matter what life throws at you.

First up is Shiffa Healing Balm. This brand recently launched in Urban Retreat in Harrods and the Healing Balm is a must have for my beauty bag.

The texture of this multi-purpose balm is lighter and softer than other balms I've tried and it melts immediately into an oil when massaged over the skin. The combination of Chamomile, Arnica, Shea Butter, Indian Neem and Lavender creates a soothing and comforting formula which is like a big hug for dry, chapped and sensitive skin.

I credit the fact that my face remained soft and moisturised during two long haul flights and a fortnight in the cold North East to this wondrous product. It can be used anywhere on the face or body, but I tend to save it for my complexion. It's a beautiful over night moisturiser, but also puts up a fight against nasty elements such as wind and rain during the day. The best thing about Shiffa Healing Balm? Even spots and blemishes seem calmed after a couple of days of use - less red, smaller and on the mend.

Of course, you'll have to find out how you would like to use this best, and there are many options to choose from; makeup primer, moisturiser, mask, lip balm, cuticle softener, nail strengthener, on insect bites and burns, nappy rash, cradle cap and stretch marks... need I go on?

Health - de Mamiel Vitality Tea

2012-01-09T12:06:00.000Z

Clockwise from left; de Mamiel Vitality Tea, Bellevue Tea Teaspoon Set, Marimekko Kaiku Birch Tree Beaker, Skeem White Tea and Thyme Candle

As a great English tea drinker I can't help but be interested in de Mamiel Vitality Tea. It sounds exceptionally tempting even before you know its wonderful ingredients, but once you realise it contains such things as Lemongrass, Peppermint, Spearmint, Juniper Berry, Goji Berry and Orange (to name just a few) it becomes even more enticing.

This fresh blend has been mixed together in order to energise and revitalise as well as cleanse the body. Said to be best drunk during the spring, a fatigue busting drink such as this must surely have a place in the dreary winter months as well. After all, who couldn't use a pick me up right now?

Fitness - The Women's Health Big Book of Exercises

2012-01-09T10:46:00.000Z

Exercise can feel off putting not just because of the amount of effort required, but it can be difficult to know what exactly you should be doing. We're told again and again that to truly be healthy and fit, we need to be undertaking not just cardiovascular exercise but also resistance exercise - more often than not, lifting weights.

Certainly, heading to the weights area of the gym can do wonders for your strength and your physique, but what if you've never pumped iron before? How do you know what to do? The wrong move or technique could at best mean that your not getting the most from your workouts and at worst cause you a nasty injury.

May I introduce you to my favourite fitness book; The Women's Health Big Book of Exercises. Jam packed with resistance exercises and clear images you'll learn the perfect form in no time. There's also plenty of advice and inspiration for hitting the weight's room in the gym, a small amount of nutritional advice and a number of workout plans such as the Bikini Ready Workout and, my personal favourite, the Get Your Body Back Workout.

This book is clear, concise and informative. Whether you're an exercise newbie or a gym junkie you're sure to be impressed with it. It has my personal seal of approval.

Image of the Day - Go Away

2012-01-08T15:00:00.000Z

One of my favourite Christmas presents from 2011 - I've been saving it for today, when I'm back at work. From the Literary Gift Company.

Editor's Letter - January

2012-01-08T10:30:00.000Z

After a blissful fortnight in the UK where I completely relaxed, indulged and partied, today I'm back to reality with a bump. The lack of internet connection in the homes I was staying in over my break meant that I was biting my fingernails over the fact that I couldn't update Twelve52, but in actual fact it probably turned out quite well.

This year is going to be a manic one. For the next few months I'll be busying myself preparing for Twelve52.com's launch and in the spring when the site goes live it'll be all hands on deck. So the fact that I was forced to have a proper holiday, with no work involved, was no bad thing.

I arrived back in Dubai three days ago and managed to have brought a nasty case of the flu back with me as a souvenir. Teamed with jet lag, I have felt better. With just a couple of hours sleep under my belt from last night, today I am forcing myself to be busy for fear of falling asleep the moment I stop moving. I need an energy burst, a healthy body and a soothed mind... and I need them pronto. Good job then that this month's edition is 'Health Kick' - dedicated to feeling better after December's guilty pleasures and starting 2012 on the right foot.

Don't panic, this isn't just about exercise and dieting. We'll be talking not just about looking better but feeling 100% well physically, mentally and emotionally. Are you ready to kick start your year?

Books - Carole Matthews Interview

2012-01-08T07:06:00.003Z

Due to technical difficulties over the last couple of weeks (thanks to a broken router in one house and a dodgy internet connection in the other whilst staying in the UK) I was unable to get this fabulous interview up before Christmas, but I hope you'll find it just as enjoyable to read today - a good excuse to sit down for five minutes and eat the last mince pie perhaps? Apologies to Nikki and Carole for the fact that this is well overdue...

If you need a little inspiration for a Christmassy read, look no further than ‘Wrapped Up In You’, the latest release from internationally bestselling author Carole Matthews. We’re really excited to share this interview with the talented lady herself – so without further ado, here’s Carole talking books, Christmas plans, and the fact Santa still hasn’t brought her Rupert Penry-Jones…

How would you describe ‘Wrapped Up In You’?

It’s a full-on, festive romance with a twist. I wanted to do something a little bit different than the ‘traditional’ English Christmas. So I sent my heroine, Janie Johnson, off to Africa and the plains of the Maasai Mara. Janie’s a single woman who feels that life is passing her by and she decides she needs an adventure and a trip to Africa seems ideal. What she doesn’t expect is to fall in love with both the country and her guide, a fully-fledged Maasai warrior called Dominic. He is my most romantic hero to date. He’s just gorgeous and everyone falls in love with him. But having a relationship with someone from a different continent and a totally different culture is never going to be easy and the book deals with the trials and tribulations that Dominic and Janie have to overcome to find true love. It’s a lovely, warm-hearted book and I really enjoyed writing it.

You must have been in the Christmas spirit a bit longer than the rest of us while writing your novel! How do you stay inspired to write a festive story after December has passed?

I feel very festive this year. This is my first Christmas book, but it certainly won’t be the last. The plan is that I’ll do one every year now and also a big summer book. I’ll be starting my book for Christmas 2013 (!) in January and have a research trip to Lapland planned (totally jammy!) It’s good to start my Christmas book right after the new year as I’ve got lots of fresh ideas. The worst thing is that I now crave mince pies all year round!

How will you be celebrating this year? Do you have any family traditions?

Lovely Kev and I are having a quiet Christmas this year. My mum is coming to stay with us and we’re going to veg out with old films and Quality Street. I love cooking my Christmas dinner. I think it’s the nicest meal of the year. We go into our next door neighbour’s on Christmas morning and start the day with bucks fizz, so I’m always slightly squiffy when I get round to cooking. A lethal combination! Later in the day we have friends drop in on us which I always love. I’m never happier than making turkey butties for unexpected visitors. The house looks very festive this year as we’ve bought the most enormous Christmas tree - it’s over ten feet tall and dominates our living room. I slightly underestimated how big it was when I bought it.

If you could recommend one 'must read' Christmas book, which would it be?

‘Wrapped Up In You’! Oh, you mean someone else’s book? I have a whole heap of Christmas books to read this year and haven’t started any of them yet. I’m currently in the middle of my edits for next year’s Christmas book - as yet untitled - and I have to get that done first before I can get stuck into Christmassy novels. Think Trisha Ashley’s book ‘The Magic of Christmas’ will be at the top of the pile.

What's on your Christmas list?

Ugg boots. Anything from Hotel Chocolat. A black poncho. And Rupert Penry-Jones. (He has been on my Christmas list for some years now, but Santa hasn’t yet come through. Meh.)

By Nikki

Christmas - Santa's Little Helpers

2011-12-18T12:21:00.000Z

I'm not quite sure how it happened, but it's one week till Christmas. It has really snuck up on me. I may have managed to get the Christmas present all bought and delivered, but I'm don't have my usual kit of festive lifesavers... better known as hangover aids.

Seeing as the Christmas party was on Thursday night, I have been paying for this indiscretion. If you don't want to find yourself in a similar situation over the next week or so, I suggest stocking up on these little helpers.

Eboost Sachets - A little sachet packed with vitamins C and B-12 as well as anti-oxidants like Green Tea and grape seed. Pop it in some water and drink it up. It's not very tasty, but it is energising and gives you a lift when all you feel like doing is hiding under the duvet and weeping.

Max Strength Milk Thistle - This supplement is thought to provide hangover relief by protecting the cells in the liver from the effect of alcohol. Take one before a night out and one after.

Rehydration Salts - Even if you're not having a big night out, running around a hot kitchen making Chritmas dinner whilst having the occasional glass of wine throughout the day can lead to dehydration and give you a bad case of brain ache. Drink water, but add rehydration salts to make sure you're replacing minerals lost through sweat.

Yoghurt and honey - If you can stomach it, this is perfect for breakfast when you're feeling a little bit tender post-cocktails. The honey boosts your blood sugar levels which have had a major crash over night, whilst the yoghurt soothes the stomach and digestive tract, meaning a comfier tummy.

Obviously, it goes without saying that prevention is better than cure so take it easy on the old boozecohol to feel chipper in the morning.

What helps you when you have a hangover?

Gifts - Cake Slice Club

2011-12-14T08:19:00.000Z

Cake. Doesn't everyone just love cake? The most read features on Twelve52 are about cupcakes and cake-pops, so I know that the vast majority of you, dear readers, are sponge lovers. As am I.

The trouble is, it's not actually that often that I get to have cake because I know that if I buy or make a cake I'll eat it in its entirety before it's even had a chance to cool. Not too good for my waistline or my emotional health, considering the rest of the week is spent feeling guilty... and sad that there's no more cake.

If only you could just have a slice of cake delivered to you, say once a month. Oh wait a minute, you can! All thanks to The Cake Nest and their genius Cake Slice Club.

Simply pick the duration (3 or 6 months) and the flavours you'd like (chocolate and Guinness anyone?) and wait for the postman to arrive. If you're ordering for a Christmas present, you can email the company and they'll send you a gift certificate to print off - pop it in your beloved's Christmas card to let them know to expect cakey goodness in the post in January.

Marvellous.

Home - Christmas Decorations

2011-12-12T08:20:00.001Z

Top Row: Pop Up Christmas Tree, Tea Light Holders Middle Row: Flocked Baubles, Wreath Bottom Row: Fruit Baubles

We all know Christmas is all about cheesy music, tacky decorations, glitter, tinsel and fake snow. I’m a lover of bright colours but even some neon decorations are a little too much for me. Believe it or not, there are decorations out there that combine bold colours with fun design without having to settle for Poinsettia, Holly and raffia for a more chic look.

White trees with contrasting coloured baubles are a fun way to embrace Christmas; no stuffy glittery Angels here. Minimal effort gives maximum effect with this B & Q pop up tree, it comes with decorations and lights included, literally popping up & into festive action, simple!

Flocked accessories in cranberry hues give a luxurious feel, mix these with highly polished ones and baubles in contrasting materials such as wood and acrylic.

Spread candles around your home and relax in their twinkly glow, invest in some tea light or candle holders or scented candles for those dark Winter evenings.

What is your Christmas decoration style? Do you prefer traditional or modern and chic?

By Abbi

Gifts - Diane Von Furstenburg Earbuds

2011-12-08T16:02:00.001Z

I'm a sucker for anything Diane Von Furstenburg, so I went a little bit loopy over these wonderfully cute earphones from the designer.

If you're looking for a sweet yet practical gift or even a luxury stocking filler this Christmas, then this is it. Style savvy girls who are all about the details in their outfits and accessory choices are bound to fall in love with these as much as I have. Well done DVF, well done.

Food - Hairy Bikers Mince Pie Pastry

2011-12-08T07:35:00.001Z

For the last couple of years we've used the Hairy Bikers recipe for the pastry in our mince pies.

Whilst the recipe includes how to make your own mincemeat, in our household we prefer a more ~~lazy~~ relaxed approach. In other words, we make the pastry rounds, freeze them raw, and every time we want mince pies we defrost a couple of rounds, pop a bit of fancy pre-made (read; out of the jar) mincemeat on top before bunging them in the oven for an open top variation on this seasonal classic. Easy peasy.

The best thing about the Hairy Bikers' recipe is the pastry has a delicate orange flavour which makes the mice pie taste extra Christmassy and special.

Interested? Of course you are. The full recipe, in all it's Yuletide glamour is online here.

Beauty - Winter Glow

2011-12-07T08:00:00.000Z

Nude Cleansing Facial Oil, Oskia Get Up & Glow, Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector

It's so much easier to get skin to look luminous in summer. Most people have a bit more colour in their cheeks during the warmer months, we generally wear less makeup and, most importantly, there isn't the constant battle against the drying and dehydrating effects of wind, cold and heating. We may as well face it, skin is just happier during spring and summer.

I'm not too keen on the dull and drab style my skin takes on at this time of year. Thankfully, I have an arsenal of glow getting products to keep my skin looking as radiant as possible, but there are three products which really stand out for me.

First up is Nude Cleansing Facial Oil, also known as one of my favourite cleansers of all time. Simply massage this thick oil into dry skin to lift away makeup and grime, before adding water into the mix. The oil will turn milky, rinsing away the dirt. The best bit about this product is that it doesn't just cleanse extremely well, it leaves the skin soft, comfortable and glowing thanks to Omega 3 and Vitamin E. No uncomfortable tightness or dryness allowed!

Oskia Get Up & Glow is a new favourite. This is a beautiful serum packed full with gorgeous ingredients which skin loves - Roboxil gives the skin an oxygen boost and energises skin cells, Milk Peptides increase the production of hydrating Hyalruonic Acid and MSM works on collagen production. Meanwhile, Swiss Apple Stem Culture prolongs the life of healthy skin cells. If that's not enough for you, the serum has a lovely pearlescent sheen to it, so skin glows form the second you put it on. OK, all those ingredients may be a little confusing but what I know for sure is this - it's a beautiful product and one which I can see myself purchasing again and again.

Last but by no means least is BECCA Shimmering Skin Perfector. I will never tire of this highlighter. Glowy but not glittery, this always makes my skin look better, without exception. A little along the top of the cheekbones, down the bridge of the nose and above the top lip takes skin from woeful to wow. It also seems to last forever, making it a brilliant investment.

Do you have any must have products for a winter glow?

Home - Preparing for Winter

2011-12-06T17:07:00.001Z

Top Row: Donna Wilson Blanket, Cashmere Throw Bottom Row: Basket, Godta Mug, Nordic Hot Water Bottle

The weather is cold, the winds are howling and with the threat of snow on the way, what better excuse to prepare your home and create a welcoming, warming haven just oozing festive, cosy cheer?

Forget decking the halls with holly, deck your living space with sumptuous blankets made from wool or cashmere. Nordic printed textiles and home wares will give a feel of Winter wonderland without having to resort to giant flashing reindeer.

Drink your favourite steaming beverage from a range of Scandinavian inspired mug to warm your insides before venturing out into the cold.

Store your wrapped gifts in woven baskets, available in various sizes. While being easy to stack, having a basket per person means the Christmas present delivery has never been easier.

Have you prepared your home for Winter?

By Abbi

Beauty - Green & Spring Indulging Gift Set

2011-12-04T12:00:00.000Z

Santa, if you're reading, I'd really rather like a limited edition Indulging Gift Set by Green & Spring to unwrap on Christmas day.

For the first time, my sister and I are in charge of Christmas dinner. I'm not good in the kitchen, and though my sister is a culinary genius she's also a vegetarian. It could get messy. I'll undoubtedly need a bath to unwind after the trauma of correctly cooking a turkey, preferably one which smells of rose, jasmine, elderflower and red clover.

As luck would have it, the Indulging Range at Green & Spring would fit the bill perfectly. What a startling coincidence! If I could just nab the Indulging Gift Set then I can pour in the Shower and Bath Foam and Light Bath Oil whilst basking in the glow of the fragrant candles.

Hello, Santa? Are you there?

Food - Christmas Sugar

2011-12-04T08:00:00.000Z

Christmas Sugar

December is a month when you can be a little bit extravagant when it comes to food. The lead up to Christmas in the Twelve52 household tends to involve lots of precious little treats to snack on and I always end up buying things that I would never even consider splashing out on at any other time of the year.

Case in point - Christmas Sugar from Cox & Cox.

Coloured sugar lumps in the shape of edelweiss, mistletoe, fir branch and pine cone, these are exceptionally pretty and really rather special. Who wouldn't be impressed and astounded by these? They're the perfect thing to whip out when making tea for unexpected guests bearing gifts.

I don't usually have sugar in my tea, but for these I would be willing to make an exception.

Food - GDesserts Cupcakes in Jars

2011-12-03T08:00:00.000Z

I like cake. Cupcakes especially. I also like pretty things and unusual gifts. So, you can imagine my delight when I came across GDesserts, the makers of delectable cupcakes in jars.

Yes, we've had regular cupcakes in cases, cupcakes on sticks and now we have cupcakes in jars. Why do we need a new way of making cupcakes? What's so good about placing them in jars? Let me just say one thing... 'layers'.

GDesserts regular sized cupcake jars contain two layers of icing and two layers of cake. Hello, dessert heaven! Too substantial for you? They also have smaller jars with your standard, one layer each, set up.

Now, if you haven't been tempted by the concept alone then let me tell you about the flavours. There's the classical Victoria Sponge, yummy Carrot Cake with passion fruit cream cheese icing, and Simply Vanilla for traditionalists. Cocoa fiends will go mad for Chocolate Nutter and cupcake experts are bound to salivate over the Red Velvet. Feeling Christmassy? They've got that covered too.

Me? I'll take the Strawbubbly with it's champagne sponge cake and strawberry icing. Divine.

Home - Christmas Cards

2011-12-02T07:30:00.000Z

Top Row: Flock Star Giftwrap, Pear Tree Christmas Card, Rob Ryan Christmas Card Second Row: Growing Reindeer Card, Ho Ho Ho Christmas Card, Pop Up Card

December has hit, Christmas cards, decorations, giant boxes of chocolates and sprouts aplenty have all been lurking in our shops since October.

Christmas cards are always something I mean to send out, but hardly ever do. Sending out my Christmas good will on a card depicting a watercolour holly leaf with snow and robin, whilst beautiful, lacks a little something.

We spend so much time finding the perfect gift for our loved ones, why not put as much effort in with the gift wrap and of course Christmas cards to complement them. Forget jumbo boxes of 200 mixed cards, there are a variety of cards both online and in store that are sold singularly or in small packs, ensuring you are able to select something special for your lucky receivers.

With printed, hand cut, laser cut, flock and embossed as just a few options available, what will you choose?

By Abbi

Fashion - Snug Jumpers

2011-12-01T07:44:00.001Z

Clockwise from top left; Rare Ribbon Bow Front Cardigan, Aubin & Wills Drynam Striped Open Knit Sweater, Topshop Knitted Fluffy Jumper in Pale Peach, By Malene Birger Pink Cropped Angora Sweater

Some people love to strut around in sun dresses, floppy hats and flimsy jersey but I'm much more of a winter dresser. Hand me a warm knit and I'm a happy girl. I much prefer winter style to summer style; it's just my thing.

So, I'm vastly looking forward to heading back to Newcastle at the end of the month where I'll have the perfect excuse to put my knitwear to good use and maybe buy some extra supplies (hello blush pink By Malene Birger sweater) for cold weather emergencies.

It's the snug jumpers which I'm most excited about. Is there anything more wonderful on a chilly night than throwing on a thick and ridiculously soft sweater and curling up on the sofa with a hot chocolate? Perhaps I've been in Dubai too long, but it's my idea of bliss.

This season, I'll be embracing the English weather. Preferably with cashmere.

Editor's Letter - December

2011-12-01T06:31:00.001Z

November has been a lovely but exhausting month. As well as starting work on designing Twelve52.com and brainstorming ideas for the online magazine, I've been playing hostess - first to my in-laws, then to my Dad. It was fantastic to have family come and see us in Dubai, but the fact that they all chose to come in the same month made it difficult to keep up with regular posting on the blog.

Now, we're in December and I'm so much looking forward to having a relaxed few weeks in the lead up to Christmas. Relaxed lead up to Christmas, you gasp? Well, firstly I don't have children which makes the whole Chrimbo prep infinitely easier. Secondly, I'm getting everything done online, from the comfort of my home, mulled wine in hand. All I have to do is sit back and wait for the deliveries to arrive, then leap on a plane to cold North East England.

Which brings me on to this month's edition - Winter Wonderland. Twelve52 will be going all sentimental with beautiful gifts, cards and decorations but we'll also be taking a practical look at winter - from healing chapped, dehydrated skin to layering clothes for a snug yet stylish look.

So, let's light the fire, roast some chestnuts and settle in for Twelve52's Winter Wonderland.

Home - Jar Vases

2011-11-30T18:33:00.001Z

Once the humble marmalade jar has met its end, served its purpose in provided sustenance to the bleary eyed, consider alternate uses for our pre 9am saviour.

After being set free from the sticky nectar within, jars and bottles make excellent vases, providing effortless style and a relaxed look to your home.

Think about colour and texture, what flowers and leaves look best together? Mix textures and colour. Coordinate blooms with your interior decor with either fresh or silk flowers. Peonies, gerberas,
and roses work well. Their bold and striking appearance with the clear glass provides an interesting contrast.

Opt for a rustic look and pick flowers from the garden or woods, combining foliage with berries for an Autumn and Winter display.

For added detail wrap lace or organza ribbon around the neck of the bottle or jar to coordinate or compliment with a room colour scheme. Adding a dash of food colouring to the water will change the look of the arrangement without harming the flowers.

Let us know what you think, will you try creating your own rustic flower arrangement?

By Abbi

Beauty - Complexion Perfection for Less

2011-11-30T06:44:00.001Z

Beautiful skin. Isn't that what we all strive for in our skincare and make-up routine? Oh, to be able to leave the house with just a slick of mascara and not look like one of the undead. Whilst my skin generally isn't in bad shape right now (touch wood), it's not quite at that flawless, glowing, look at me I've only moisturised, clear stage. So, like most women, I need a little help from the cosmetic fairies.

With an endless budget it's fairly easy to achieve the complexion of an angel (I'm talking Miranda Kerr here), I'd plump for Laura Mercier primers, Becca highlighters, Face Atelier Foundation and Chantecaille tinted moisturiser, with a dusting of Chanel powder on top. Ta daa! Bankrupt but beautiful.

It's trickier on a budget. If you end up buying five affordable foundations in the quest to find a great quality version, you might as well have just splashed out in the first place. Lucky you, I've done the work for you and cherry picked my top products for complexion perfection on a budget.

17 Photo Flawless Primer - At just £4.99 this is ideal for primer newbs who aren't sure whether they need one or not. It smoothes the skin nicely, meaning foundation glides on well and lasts longer. A bargain at twice the price.

Body Shop Vitamin E Tinted Moisturiser - Coming in at £10.00 this tinted moisturiser ain't half bad. The Vitamin E nourishes the skin, whilst the hint of colour evens out area of the complexion which just need a little bit of help, allowing you to apply foundation only where it's absolutely necessary. It's only downfall is that it just comes in one shade, so pale and dark skins aren't catered for. Boo hiss.

L'Oreal True Match Foundation - Before I discovered my expensive taste in foundation, this was my go to product. I even repurchased it several times, which is a real seal of approval from fickle old me. Skin needs to be well moisturised for this to look its best, but it has good staying power and I would always get compliments on my skin when I wore it. It's easy to build up the coverage too, so whether you want just a light layer or full coverage, you can get it.

No7 Quick Cover Blemish Stick - OK, let's set this straight. This concealer calls itself a blemish stick but it's also suitable for age spots, under eye area and any uneven skin tone. It's more of an all rounder than it lets on. It's also pretty damn good for £8.00.

Bourjois Mineral Radiance Compact Powder - A light dusting of this, should you need it, and you're done. A flawless face, for highstreet prices.

Tell me, what are your favourite face products?

Twelve52.com - The Beginning

2011-11-29T08:00:00.000Z

Sometimes I feel like the fact that this blog is a starting point for an online magazine gets a little bit lost.

I decided to start the blog in order to experiment with the style of content and posting, find a clear voice and let people know that something bigger and better was in the works. That last point hasn't been seen too much though, so in an effort to let you all know what's going on behind the scenes I'll now be writing regular, monthly updates on Twelve52.com - the online women's magazine which will be launching in 2012.

Before I get down to the site itself I wanted to talk about my reasons for setting up Twelve52.com and my inspiration behind it all.

My entire life, I have been a dreamer. Everyday I think about the places I would go, the things I would do, the people I would meet if only I had the time, money and motivation to do so. I was a thinker alright, but not so much of a doer. My conversations were filled with two words.... 'one day'.

One day I'm going to go to New York for New Year's Eve. One day I'm going to run a marathon. One day I'm going to learn to drive. One day...

I never had any trouble living my life in the future, yet never really getting anything done. The one thing that I did do right was become a professional writer and editor. I decided it was my dream job. I started writing everywhere I could for free. I took a fashion journalism postgrad and got the highest marks in my class and before I graduated I was getting paid for my words. It was an almighty buzz and felt incredible. Five years on and I'm still writing and earning, but the excitement has gone and it feels like 'just a job'.

I spent a year knowing that something needed to change. That I had to get my old ambition back and have something to aim for in my career. I decided that I would set up an online magazine... one day.

Then, everything changed when a woman in her fifties lost her battle with cancer. My mum.

I know it's nothing new. That millions go through the same thing. But losing your mum when she's so young changes your outlook on life. You know what? It really isn't a cliche - life is short and it's there for living.

My mum had a plentiful life. She had a happy marriage, children, a fabulous home and great holidays. She cooked like a top London chef and cleaned like Anthea Turner. She had a full and fabulous career, first as a nurse and health visitor, then as an art curator. She had three degrees and a penchant for Ghost clothing and Jo Malone bath oil. Her only sadness was that she wouldn't live to have grandchildren, but she felt that despite dying at such a young age she had enjoyed a wonderful life, full of greatness and richness and opportunity.

If that's not inspiring, then I don't know what is.

If I found out tomorrow that I had a year to live, would I feel pleased about what I've achieved with the time I've had?

My new outlook on life is all about doing, that's where Twelve52.com has come from. It was a dream and now I'm making it a reality. I'm not going to live my life in an imaginary future anymore. One day is today.

News - H&M and Marni Collaborate

2011-11-29T07:24:00.001Z

No sooner have we seen crowds queuing up to get their hands on some Versace pieces at H&M, the Swedish superstore has announced a new collaboration. H&M and Marni will be coming in March. Will you be camping outside your nearest store?

Image of the Day - Beach Side

2011-11-27T10:56:00.001Z

With less than a month until I head back to North England for Christmas and New Year, I'm making the most of the Middle Eastern weather here in Dubai. I'm not going to lie, I'm slightly concerned about how cold it's going to be back in good old Newcastle.

Home - Sainsburys Bargains

2011-11-27T07:21:00.001Z

First Row: Striped oven gloves, Tub Chair, Cerise Toilet Brush. Second Row: Collapsible colander, Wall Clock, Scandinavian Style Mug.

Continuing with the budget homeware series, Sainsburys are offering boasts printed textiles in contrasting prints, bright kitchen accessories and Scandinavian style prints to ease you into the Festive Season.

With free standard delivery for orders over £50 there has never been a better time to give your home an updated look. Choose from affordable furniture or a few accessories in an accent colour to pack a punch in the dreary November weather.

What are your favourite budget homeware picks?

By Abbi

Books - Budget Reading

2011-11-26T15:00:00.000Z

As we prepare for the expense of Christmas, many of us will cut back on luxuries: makeup, clothes, takeaways, cinema trips – they all come with a side order of guilt when you’re on a strict budget. Even buying a shiny new hardback can feel a little indulgent when you’re saving, but reading is a pleasure that you don’t have to give up! Here are some ideas to find your next read with little to no spending.

Second-hand Shopping

If you don’t mind a few dog-eared pages, second-hand books are the way to go. Charity shops are brilliant for picking up a pre-loved book, and you’ll be helping a good cause (why not take along some of your own for donation?) Try searching for second-hand bookshops in your local area, or pop down to a car boot sale – you’ll often find boxes of unwanted novels selling for just a few pennies! Online, try WorldofBooks.com for cheap second-hand books and special offers, and keep an eye on the ‘marketplaces’ at Amazon and Waterstone’s for bargains on newer releases.

Swap with a friend

Your old books are collecting dust while you search for something new, but perhaps you have a friend with the same problem. Pick a book you know she’ll love, and ask her to do the same – a novel can take on new meaning when it’s been chosen just for you. No willing friends? Try ReaditSwapit.co.uk and swap with people all over the world.

Plan a book sharing party

Swapping on a larger scale! Get together with your friends and family, and ask them to bring all the books they no longer want. Browse the collections and discuss your favourites – you’ll have a great time, and everyone will leave with a few new additions to their bookshelf.

Visit a library

Budget cuts have put our libraries under threat, but it would be tragic to lose such a valuable resource. Pop down to your local library and show support: it’s the perfect place to discover new authors, and it’s free! Need inspiration? Take advantage of their expertise and ask your librarian for recommendations.

Do you mind reading second-hand novels, or do you prefer a crisp new book?

By Nikki

Image of the Day - Home Office

2011-11-26T11:40:00.001Z

In the morning, while there's still some shade on the balcony, I can usually be found working here. Not a bad home office.

Fashion - Bag It Up

2011-11-20T08:16:00.001Z

Missguided Barbora Animal Skin Handbag in Tan, New Look Classic Satchel Bag, ASOS Mini Dark Floral Satchel, Forever21 Woven Leatherette Clutch, H&M Handbag

OK, so you've promised yourself that one day you'll actually splurge and buy that designer handbag you've been craving. Can I make a suggestion? Before you start saving, grab yourself one or two high street varieties to see you through. You don't need spend thousands of pounds to end up with some lust worthy arm candy.

Home - Budget Bathroom

2011-11-20T06:42:00.001Z

Square Bath and Screen, Square Chrome Shower, Vinyl Floor Tile, Basin

The bathroom has to be one the most expensive parts of redecorating a home other than the kitchen, right? Well, wrong. A bathroom can be redecorated for just over £800 and we’re not just talking a splash of paint and some co-ordinating towels.

Believe it or not the bathroom suite retailers that offer half price bathrooms and huge reductions aren’t always necessarily the most inexpensive. By all means let them plan your bathroom, make the most of your available space and provide you a quote, but do not feel obliged to purchase anything. The quote I originally got for the suite was nearly three times more than the money I actually spent on my bathroom, that’s suite, tiles, flooring, everything.

Fitting the bathroom yourself is probably the easiest way to save money when installing a new bathroom. Of course, this means you will need someone that is handy with plumbing as well as an eye for tiling, sealing and grouting. Many people know a plumber or odd job person that can help out with this, alternatively there are always an array of people that can be found locally online or in the Yellow Pages that will be able to offer you a competitive rate for installation.

Shop around. The majority of my bathroom suite I purchased from retailers on eBay. (www.ebay.co.uk) Remember, reputable companies retail on eBay, not just private sellers trying to peddle their unwanted wares. Just be sure to check the sellers feedback rating to ensure they are genuine. The items listed in this article are ones actually purchased and installed in my bathroom this year, so the sellers featured are reputable and the items quality. I even go as far as to say or equal quality to other much higher priced items, if not better. Most baths are 5mm in thickness, the one featured above is 7mm. Even though it is from eBay, there is no compromise on quality.

Tiles are another expense, unfortunately tiles are something where if you compromise on price, you often compromise on quality also. Of course you do not have to tile your whole bathroom, just the area by the shower or bath, this will save you some money, but of course everyone has individual preferences. I opted for large, glossy black tiles which cost around £80 for an average size area around the bath.

Bathroom flooring can easily bump up your bargain bathroom. Tiles whilst being the more expensive option, create a slipping, sliding, skidding disaster zone, potentially turning your relaxing bath from opulent to ouch. Vinyl tiles are better, the above ones I chose cost £12 for the whole bathroom and create a modern, clean look alongside all the square edges of the bathroom, proving style doesn’t always have to be expensive.

There are a few extra expenses that will depend on whether you employ anyone to fit your bathroom and tile it, or not. You will need a few extra fixtures and fittings that often do not come with baths or sinks like traps, wastes and connecting pipes. (These parts are often hidden extras on bathroom suite retailers quotes. They are vital but not mentioned in the ticket price of the sink/bath.) You can find these at your local Plumbase store. They are more expensive than somewhere like Screwfix but can give you advice on what you will need, where as Screwfix cannot. Once you are confident you have the right parts, you can always go to Screwfix to get an extra or additional parts.

What do you think? Inspired to start your own DIY bathroom journey? Let us know...

By Abbi

Home - Thrifty Finding

2011-11-16T08:58:00.001Z

The idea of rooting around in other peoples unwanted items usually effects people one of two ways; either recoiling in horror or gleefully digging through before you can say “Art Nouveau coffee table”.

There is no guarantee you will find an item missed by Antiques Roadshow from which you will earn your fortune, but there are certainly hidden gems waiting to be found among the many obscure and wonderful things that usually frequent second hand marketplaces.

What is it that you want? What do you want it for? Ask yourself these simple questions. Is it to just fill a space in the home as an inexpensive stop gap until you find something that you like better? Do you want to customize it?

Second hand shops are often laden with hidden treasures of the furniture kind. Salvation Army shops usually have a large variety of furniture.

Browse eBay and you will sure to find every kind of second hand furniture going. Just be aware that as soon as you utter (ok, type) the words “vintage” or “retro” you will more than likely partake in a bidding war with like minded bidders trying to snaffle a bargain. Instead do some research online, find what it is that you actually want, being more specific will enable you to hunt down what you want, without paying over the odds.

Freecycle offers many free items in most UK areas, you just have to arrange transport.

Many tips run a shop from their site boasting an array of rescued items and you can often find second hand wonders there for a small price. Alternatively many councils run “furniture projects” where items are stored off site, fixed and spruced up.

Does the idea of searching for your own unique item of furniture fill you with delight or dread?

By Abbi

Beauty - Accessorize Illusion Eyeshadows

2011-11-14T11:30:00.001Z

Let's make one thing clear. I'm not afraid of buying high end cosmetics, in fact I put my trust in the pricier beauty products which are out there. Give me £100 quid to spend on anything I want and I'm more likely to buy one thing from Sisley than 20 items from Superdrug. You could say, I am a cosmetics snob. And you'd be right.

So, when I ended up with a handful of eyeshadows from Accessorize a few months back it took me a while to try them. The colours looked nice enough in the pack but hey, the pay off would be crap and the formula wouldn't blend, right?

Well, wrong actually. The Illusion Eyeshadows are superb. Highly pigmented with a smooth, velvety texture they blend seamlessly across the lid and offer up a shot of colour. Lasting power isn't as long as some good eyeshadows out there, but with a slick of primer underneath they'll stay put. At £4.00 each they're an incredible bargain and I'll be stocking up on more just as soon as I can.

Are you a big spender when it comes to makeup?

Home - Asda Homeware

2011-11-12T07:41:00.001Z

Top Row: Dinner Set £25, Leaf Cushion £4. Bottom Row: String Shade £13, Chopping Boards £12, Wall Clock £8

In a place where you can buy 20 own brand sausages for one small shiny pound coin, it is hard to believe the same place houses an array of home accessories chic enough to rival any high end homeware store. Most supermarkets have started selling their own range of home accessories; from printed textiles, ceramics and rugs, to blinds and curtains in a rainbow of colours.

Cabbage... check. Kitchen roll, baked beans, cucumber... check, check and check. Sheepskin rug, dining set... err, check. With fashion in the home becoming as fast and changeable as the fashions we wear, affordable home accessories are becoming more accessible and popular.

Gone are the days of budget home accessories being plain, poor quality and boring. A far cry from Egyptian cotton, bone china and pure silk, but a stylish offering that won’t break the bank. One of my favourite things about supermarket home accessories is their affordable nature means I never feel guilty when next season I see something I like more.

What about you, have you given supermarket homeware a chance?

By Abbi

Twelve52 is on Holiday

2011-11-07T07:46:00.002Z

We'll be back on Friday!

Home - Tesco Bargains

2011-11-02T11:49:00.001Z

Top Row: V&A Tea Set, Dog Tooth Cushion. Bottom Row: Black Sheepskin Rug, Towel Bale

Sinking your toes into a sheepskin rug on a Winter morning has to be one of the perks or getting up out of a warm, cosy bed, easing you into the day ahead. The fact that the rug in question is under £20 would make this prelude to your morning routine more pleasurable.

There is nothing quite like a bargain. I’m not talking three for two on something you probably wouldn’t buy anyway, I’m talking high quality, good design, can’t-believe-it’s-that-inexpensive-check-check-double-check kind of bargain.

Furnishing a room to a strict budget is actually quite fun. Set yourself a target. No one is saying compromise on what you want, but if what you like is too expensive, why not shop around, be inventive.

Are you flexible with your budget, do you set one?

By Abbi

Image of the Day - Do You Think I'm Pretty?

2011-11-02T11:41:00.000Z

Montagne Jeunesse face masks - oh how I love them. They're affordable and go wonderfully with a magazine and a glass of wine. I never knew that they did cloth masks as well as their more famous face packs. This one is the Face Tonic with dead sea minerals and it feels freakishly cold on the skin which is very nice and soothing. I think it would be great if you were feeling a bit tired or hungover.

Fashion - Look a Million Dollars for Less

2011-11-01T14:19:00.000Z

H&M Petrol Dress, ASOS Glitter Skinny Belt, Accessorize Deco Jewel Cuff, Forever21 Slingback Stilettos (total outfit cost £61.33)

Every now and again there's a party, event or occasion in which we feel, for god knows what reason, that we have to buy a whole new outfit in order to look halfway decent. The wardrobe in the bedroom just doesn't have what it takes to make us feel a million dollars when we absolutely have to, so a little bit of a clothes haul is in order.

The trouble is finding that million dollar outfit without an American Express Centurion Card isn't easy. So, how do you pick a bargain-basement outfit and still look first class?

Look for rich colours - pastels, light hues and patterns show the quality of the fabric and sewing more easily. Go for deep shades instead like purple, petrol, ruby or maroon. Jewel tones are always a hit for cocktail hour.
Work with what you have - I know, I know, you really want a whole new look for the big night but it's worth digging through your wardrobe. It's all too esy to forget about that dress you used to love or the old shoes which made you feel so sexy. Have a dressing up session and see if there's anything you can use. You may need to dig out some shoe polish or head to the dry cleaners, but it'll be cheaper than starting from scratch.
Go classic - If you're buying new shoes and accessories then keep them classic. Instead of going for those bang on trend sequinned, bling-tastic courts, opt for something like a black stiletto. You'll get more wear out of them, so more bang for your buck.
Treat yourself - set yourself a budget and dedicate a portion of it to a gorgeous piece of jewellery. You don't need to spend a fortune, but £15 for a nice bit of sparkle will add the finishing touch to your outfit and make it look a whole lot more expensive.

Where do you like to shop for fashion bargains?

Image of the Day - Rose Milk

2011-11-01T11:49:00.000Z

I thought I'd try something different today. I saw this can of Rose Milk in the fridge at my local grocery store and figured I'd give it a go. It's caught my eye on more than one occasion and I've often wondered what it would be like.

I managed about three sips. It's not horrific, but it's exceptionally sweet and I don't see how anyone could actually drink a whole can of this. I can see it in some kind of ice cream with dark chocolate perhaps. Served in teeny, tiny portions.

Editor's Letter - November

2011-11-01T07:53:00.002Z

Well, I for one have learned a lot from last month's Solved edition, but the first of the month means that Twelve52 has a brand new theme to play with. For November, we'll be covering all things budget.

The Budget Edition will cover the best products, services, news and tips we can find, all with a bargain price tag. It's not just about saving money, it's about value for money too. Something which is never a bad thing in the run up to the money eating holiday that is Christmas.

So put down the credit card and grab your coin purse. Join me for the Twelve52 Budget Edition.

Make sure you don't miss a single money saving post by following the fun. You can keep up to date with Twelve52 by liking our Facebook page, following via Google Friend Connect and getting in touch via Twitter.

News - Happy Halloween

2011-10-31T13:16:00.002Z

Happy Halloween! Can you guess who this is? Stunner Heidi Klum, who abandoned all sex appeal for her annual fright night party and arrived in this nauseating get up. It may be disgusting, but it's certainly impressive. Heidi went the whole hog and even arrived at the bash strewn across an autopsy table. Spooky.

Home - Household Solutions

2011-10-31T06:41:00.002Z

First Row: Alessi Chilli Scruncher Second Row: Ovetto Bin, Cable Turtle.

There are a few annoying things in life that just make the every day a little bit harder. Like the cat sleeping on your brand new guest bedroom linen shortly before your picky friend/mother in law comes to stay. Or realising someone's using the last of the milk/tooth paste/teabags when you’re running late.

For (nearly) every household problem, that constant source of irritation, there is a solution:

Recycling

We all know the benefits of recycling, the amount of waste it reduces. The amount of materials able to be recycled is amazing. But do you know what I hate? Sorting it. Washed out baked bean cans lined up with milk cartons and jars, waiting until there are enough to take out to the recycling bags in one go. It’s not far, but hey, it’s cold and probably raining.

What’s the alternative, have your recyclables in bags ready to take out at the same time? I don’t think so. The Ovetto bin has 3 compartments for easily and conveniently separating waste, comes in different colours. Made from recycled materials, as well as looking like like a cute trash robot, practices what it preaches.

Cooking

A tip for removing garlic scents from hands can be as easy as rubbing the afflicting area on something stainless steel, a spoon or utensil are ideal. Chillies however appear to be an entirely different beast entirely, no matter how much you wash and scrub, there always seems to be some residue lurking, ready to give you a nasty, stingy surprise.

Alessi’s Chilli Scruncher will both chop and dispense chilli without it coming in contact with the skin, excess chilli can then be stored until next time. With its polished stainless steel and brightly coloured rubber, this has to be the most stylish way to treat your chilli.

Organizing

Taming trailing wires must be one of the biggest achievements, there is something satisfying about not having your wires jumbled together in one electrical spaghetti junction. The Popcorn Cable Turtle comes in a range of different sizes and colours, allowing you to wind and organize until your heart’s content.

Solving tiny problems like these help make life run smoothly, leaving you to get on with your day a less stressed, irritated version of yourself, hopefully.

What would your ideal home solution be?

By Abbi

Site of the Week - Pilates Anytime

2011-10-30T07:08:00.002Z

When I moved to Dubai I convinced myself that I would start taking Pilates classes as soon as I got settled in. It's always been something I've been keen to try and having seen my Mum and sister both do it and not only enjoy it but see some wonderful results, I wanted a go.

A year passed. Still no Pilates.

My own gym doesn't offer classes, which would mean hopping in a taxi as well as paying for each individual class. It was going to be an expensive hobby and the fact that it would take a fair amount of travelling to get there meant that I'd be more likely to sack it off and lose interest.

Then I found Pilates Anytime. A website which calls itself an online Pilates studio and offers hundreds of Pilates classes in HD quality. Unlike DVDs, Pilates Anytime films real classes with real students, so you get a better sense of how exercises fit together, what's good form and where you might be going wrong.

There are a number of different instructors who specialise in different schools of practice, ensuring that you get just what you're looking for from your sessions. New classes are uploaded several times a week and the site is just as suitable for total newbies like me as it is for level 3 students.

Whereas clearing my schedule to go out and find a real Pilates studio would be difficult, I can nearly always find the time to pop on a class in my living room. After just a fortnight I already feel as though my posture has improved and my core is stronger.

To access the classes you need to subscribe, but for just $18 per month I have no complaints.

Giveaway Winner

2011-10-30T06:37:00.003Z

Congratulations to Jen, who's favourite makeup product is her Diorshow Mascara. You have won this month's giveway! Please email me with your address and full name so that I can send out your prize.

News - My Week With Marilyn

2011-10-26T13:25:00.000+01:00

It's not released for another month, but I'm already excited about heading to the cinema to see My Week With Marilyn.

An adaptation of the diaries written by Colin Clark, Sir Laurence Olivier's assistant and the man who showed Marilyn Monroe around town whilst she worked on The Princess and the Showgirl in London, the film is set to be a roaring success. The iconic actress is played by Michelle Williams, who so far seems to be perfectly cast for the role.

Will you be watching the film when it's released on the 25th November?

Home - Boxetti Bedroom Module

2011-10-26T11:14:00.000+01:00

Boxetti Bedroom Module

Skimping and saving space doesn’t have to be boring. Making most of space does not mean piling books high on wardrobes and cramming as much into draws as you can, either.

It can be fun. And colourful. And stylish.

The Boxetti Bedroom Module contains everything you need to furnish a compact and bijou bedroom. With its fold down double bed and wardrobe hosting 6 compartments including shelves and rail, it even has spot lights above the headboard.

Starting from £6,845 this bedroom would definately be an investment, but how much would you spend on a bed, wardrobe, and mattress?!

By Abbi

Fashion - Glitter Shoes

2011-10-26T08:47:00.001+01:00

Clockwise from top left; Miu Miu Glitter Finish Leather Pumps, Miss Selfridge Sassy Gold Glitter Court, Topshop Astrid Suede Glitter Boots, New Look Block Glitter Heel Ankle Boot, Miu Miu Glitter and Suede Ankle Boots.

Miu Miu's glittery shoes have been everywhere lately, they're the 'it-shoe' of the season and every stylish girl seems to be craving a pair, but if you can't afford the designer price tag then the high street is here to help. Glitter laden heels needn't cost the earth. Praise god for New Look, Miss Selfridge and Topshop.

Home - DIY Blackboard

2011-10-24T16:15:00.000+01:00

Scrabbling for some paper to write that important message for that call you’ve been waiting all day for? Post it notes littering every surface, spilling out of your diary? Notes stuck to your fridge with magnets?

A statement blackboard wall in your home is the perfect way to remind you of all those important arrangements, lists and events; make them a feature within your home.

There are varying paints available, Johnstones Quick Drying Blackboard Paint and International One Coat Blackboard Paint are two good choices, alternatively your local DIY store will carry more.

Once you have chosen your wall, door/kitchen cabinet front ensure it is clean and grease free.

Paint the area with a primer or base coat, this will make sure the blackboard paint has something to adhere to, especially if you are painting on to wood, metal, plastic or paint with a shiny finish. If you are painting onto a wall with a matte finish, you can paint directly onto it as you would with any other paint.

With a paint brush or roller cover the area, it will only need one coat but check on the tin of the brand you are using.

After 24 hours your blackboard area will be ready for use.

Whether you use it for a place to unload your head, somewhere to carefully scribe important arrangements or a place to doodle and create ever changing art work, a blackboard wall is the perfect mix of fun and function.

By Abbi

Food - Home Made Mocha Frappuccino

2011-10-24T09:13:00.002+01:00

I love a Mocha Frappuccino from Starbucks. It's my kryptonite. It never used to be too much of a problem, but I now live within spitting distance of Starbucks and the urge to nip in and grab one of those cool, tasty drinks is often too much to resist. I always felt a little bit guilty about the cost of my caffeine indulgence, but when I learnt that one Mocha Frappucino contains a whopping 54g of sugar (the suggested daily limit is 40g), I knew I had to cut down.

So do you know what I did? I went and bought a blender and I've been enjoying home made, healthy mocha frappucinos instead. They go a little something like this...

You need

About twenty ice cubes
Cup of milk (I use low fat, but skimmed, whole, soy, camel... it's your call)
Espresso shot or two, left to cool
1 Scoop Chocolate Protein Powder
Banana (optional)

Method

Add milk, protein powder and espresso to blender and whizz together. Add chopped banana if you want a health kick and blend. Add ice and pulse till slushy.

Drink and enjoy without the guilt.

Fashion - Camilla Skovgaard Platform

2011-10-20T13:53:00.000+01:00

Camilla Skovgaard Platforms

Burgundy and maroon shades are always a hit for autumnal and wintry wardrobes, but this year they are right on trend. Warming up the greys and blacks which have a habit of dominating outfits in the colder months, they add a touch of cosy colour to bleak days without appearing too spring-like or off season. For a show stopping piece to invest in this season, may I introduce you to Camilla Skovgaard's creation above. Hello, lover!

Image of the Day - Home Sweet Home

2011-10-20T13:12:00.000+01:00

My last home office didn't have a window and it felt like working on a big shoe box. Now, I have a huge window to peer out of whilst I sip my tea and type away. Home sweet home.

Beauty - Aromatherapy Associates Bespoke Bath and Shower Oil

2011-10-19T19:19:00.002+01:00

The newly opened Aromatherapy Associates Boutique and Treatment Rooms is like an Aladdin's cave of gorgeous smelling beauty products. Browse, test and buy the products on offer; body and bath oils to ease away your tensions, skincare to replenish and revive your complexion and candles to de-stress the mind and body. Indulge in a treatment or learn about the essential oils which go into the products at the Ingredients Bar.

There's a product available for every need, but if you're not too sure where to start with aromatherapy then consider booking yourself in for a personal prescription with Aromatherapy Associates Co-Founder Geraldine Howard. After an hour long consultation to discuss exactly what you need and want from your aromatherapy, you'll have your own special recipe blended in the brand's very own labs. Within four weeks you'll be the proud owner of your bespoke blend of Bath and Shower Oil, packaged in a gorgeous bottle, engraved with your name.

At prices from £450 it's not by any means cheap, but the whole experience would make an unforgettable and luxurious Christmas present.

Available from the Aromatherapy Associates Boutique and Treatment Rooms, 5 Montpelier Street, London SW7 1EZ (Tel; 020 7838 1117)

News - Miss Piggy for InStyle Magazine

2011-10-19T10:18:00.001+01:00

Miss Piggy in Prabal Gurung

Jason Wu, Prabal Gurung, Opening Ceremony, Suno, Brian Atwood and Giles & Brother have all created bespoke outfits for a very special star who will be appearing in an eight page spread of InStyle's November issue. So, who is this big name who will be decked out in such glorious clothes and splashed across the glossy's pages? Why it's Miss Piggy, naturally.

The Muppet has been in the business called show for 35 years and has become an icon in her own right. With an upcoming film on the cards she's also been sticking her snout in some new ventures - attending Fashion's Night Out at Opening Ceremony, releasing a make up collection next month with MAC and she's due to appear as a guest judge on Project Runway All-Stars.

It's clear Miss Piggy takes great pride in her appearance and loves fashion. As she tells InStyle "style is about expressing your inner self, capturing your personal ethos, and, most importantly, spending someone else’s money".

Food - Rococo Chocolate School

2011-10-19T09:48:00.000+01:00

I love whipping up sweet treats but the closest I've ever come to making chocolate is melting the stuff and re-setting it in little moulds as a child. Not very adventurous, nor particularly impressive. So, I'm more than a little bit tempted to sign myself up for a class at Rococo's Chocolate School.

Rococo make devilishly delicious chocolates and confectionery and they're one of the first places I stop at on my Christmas shopping run. The idea of being taught how to make my own choccies by such masters is simply awe inspiring.

There are two modules to choose from, Perfectly Tempered Chocolate and The Perfect Truffle, and both can be booked as a half day class, one to one day class or one to one three day class. There are also a variety of extras which you can add, such as aprons and books. Every student gets their own goody bag and recipes to take home with them.

Fancy it? Contact Sara on 07720388006 to book or for more information. Prices start from £125.

Do you know how to make chocolate?

Image of the Day - Short Shorts

2011-10-19T09:05:00.000+01:00

Who likes short shorts? Erm, I do! I have a couple of pairs of very old, very small jeans which have found themselves meeting the fabric scissors and being transferred into little shorts for lazing around the house and on the balcony. Waste not, want not.

Home - Space Saving

2011-10-18T15:11:00.000+01:00

Grey Acrylic Chair, Glass Dining Table, Yellow Acrylic Chair.

The humble dining table is practical but often cumbersome and bulky, demanding it’s own room. In the times where rooms able to multi task are often favoured, adding our stocky but necessary friend the dining table into the equation is often difficult.

Large solid pieces of furniture like dining tables especially if made from wood can block light, especially in a smaller room. Opt for one in a light colour to give the feel of space or alternatively a glass or acrylic one. These will let the light pass through them and give the illusion of space with its sleek lines and style.

Add miss matched chairs chairs in acrylic or wood to add some colour if you want to make more of a statement, otherwise add black or clear acrylic chairs for a more chic or understated look.

By Abbi

News - Jimmy Choo XV

2011-10-18T13:27:00.001+01:00

Jimmy Choo is set to launch a coffee table book later this month to coincide with the brand's 15th anniversary.

Titled Jimmy Choo XV, the wonderful book takes a look back at fifteen of the most iconic designs from the hugely successful designer footwear label. As well as splendid photography, the pages contain original sketches of the shoes and some fantastic advertising campaigns.

You can pick it up from Jimmy Choo stores all over the globe from the 26th of October, where a deluxe edition will come with a snakeskin print case. If you can't get to one of the boutiques, then the book will be available in book shops from February.

100% of the profits from the book will go to the Jimmy Choo Foundation, a charitable trust to benefit women and issues of empowerment.

Now, isn't your coffee table looking just a little bit bare?

Fashion - Fabulous Flats

2011-10-18T12:30:00.001+01:00

Clockwise from top left; Steve Madden I-Dreemy Flats, Esquivel Davis Leather Brogues, Topshop Motor Giraffe Trim Loafers, River Island Light Brown Ankle Boots, By Larin Posh Patent Leather Shoe.

Whether they hurt your feet, make you feel too tall or unstable, or you just plain don't like the, not every girl loves high heels. The trouble is, every magazine, fashion website and blog talks about the elegance, sexiness and general wonder of a pair of skyscrapers. So how do you get the fabulous factor for your feet without teetering on your tootsies?

Flats needn't come second place to stilettos. Some are super gorgeous and amazingly glam. Don't be afraid of teaming them with skirt or dresses, flat shoes don't need to be sitting beneath trousers or jeans to look chic. Above are my top picks for fancy feet without the aching soles.

Image of the Day - Black Margarita

2011-10-17T19:38:00.000+01:00

Introducing the Black Margarita. A good contender for me new favourite drink.

News; Topshop Sale

2011-10-17T17:56:00.001+01:00

Clockwise from top left; Cutwork Rose Camisole, Grey Slash Lapel Crop Jacket, Pleated Bow Belted Playsuit, Silver Box Bag, Knitted Rib Chunky Jumper, Raffia Heel Buckle Sandals

The Topshop sale has started and there are some great bargains to be had from fun jewellery, snuggly jumpers, elegant wide leg trousers and pretty dresses to name but a few. Will you be indulging?

Travel - Voyage Prive

2011-10-17T15:25:00.000+01:00

If you love travel, but hate the hefty price tag which often comes with it, then you need to get yourself over to Voyage Prive. Sharpish.

A private travel club which offers its members impressively huge discounts on fabulous holidays, the site is free to join but you have to be invited to get access to the brilliant holiday deals. There are several flash sales of different vacations going on at the same time, but they only last for a certain length of time - usually just five days.

Each holiday on offer usually has a number of deals to choose from, for example with or without flights and for varying lengths of stays.

If you need a break and you want to get away but the cost makes you sweat, its worth joining up. Worried about that pesky invite? Don't worry, I've got you covered. Just click here.

Home - Anthony Hartley Shelving

2011-10-17T08:23:00.001+01:00

Anthony Hartley Shelving

The perfect way to make the most of a space, store possessions and incorporate humble shelving into your home is with Anthony Hartley’s bespoke creations.

Yorkshire based designer, Anthony makes handmade furniture from plastic, ply and woods, based on strong shapes, movement & colour. A joiner by trade, his furniture is finished to the highest standard, designed and made with his knowledge and expertise in his chosen materials

Anthony’s Pret a Porter pieces are bespoke and are designed with colours and materials to suit your interior. After choosing the colour, stain and finish he will install it in your home.

Your colour scheme is then registered to its new owner.

By Abbi

Books - Twists and Turns

2011-10-15T13:40:00.000+01:00

I'm very happy to introduce Nikki Walker, editor of Judging Covers and a very good friend of mine, as Twelve52's new book columnist. This month, Nikki's investigating the twists and turns of a good book...

Source: Flickr

What makes a brilliant book? There are a thousand answers to this question: enchanting language; an imaginative plot; complex characters that you can’t help but love…

Personally, I love a surprise: the sort of unpredictable plot twist that shocks and amazes the reader.

As you race towards a book’s final chapter, it’s easy to assume you’ve got it all figured out. You anticipate the ending, believing you’ve solved the mysteries before the characters have. But in a good book, the author is always one step ahead. A surprising twist can quickly turn everything upside down… proving that a great story is one where you can never truly predict what comes next.

'Before I Go To Sleep' by S J Watson is a book that kept me guessing from start to finish. It’s the story of Christine, who has amnesia, and she wakes up every day not knowing who she is. Her husband, Ben, tries to help by leaving photographs and notes around the house for her to find each morning - but it’s soon clear that something isn’t quite right, and there’s so much of her life that she (and the reader) doesn’t know. As the book progresses, it’s hard not to be suspicious of everyone Christine knows, and with such a twisty climax, I never could have predicted the events of the final chapter.

S J Watson has written an exciting and gripping thriller, but there are so many other books that will have you second-guessing every page. Here are the books that have been surprising some of you recently…

"If you’ve never read Sarah Water’s 'Fingersmith' you’re missing out. Not only is it full of richly detailed characters and evocative language, it’s also full of twists and turns. Epic, destabilising, incredibly clever narrative twists that alter your perception of everything you’ve read up to that point and completely change the lives of the characters involved. There’s something so satisfying about a wholly unexpected plot twist. You’d think outwitting the author by predicting the twist and seeing through the fabricated illusion they’d created would be more fulfilling for the reader, but it seems in the world of literature, we love to be tricked."

Sarah (http://pennymasquerade.blogspot.com)

"'Affinity' by Sarah Waters blew me away! I always love her books, but the twist in this one was fantastic, and so clever. It really was the proverbial 'sting in the tail', and was so well worked into the story. I'm not revealing any spoilers, but I do highly recommend this book!"

Ruth (http://thebooknutsblog.wordpress.com)

"'The Quincunx' by Charles Palliser is full of twists and turns, and as the book was drawing to a close I thought everything had finally clicked into place, until I read the last sentence! It opened up so many new possibilities I felt as though I needed to read the book again to look for more answers!"

Lauren (http://laurencaton.wordpress.com)

"The first time I read 'The Hours' by Michael Cunningham (speedily, in time for a lecture) I missed the plot twist. The second time I read it, I was amazed to see that the narratives of the novel connected in such a subtle, unexpected way. It's hard to explain just what the twist is without giving everything away, so I would have to recommend that anyone who wants to find out will have to read the book."

Emily (http://whatemilydidnext.wordpress.com)

What are your favourite books with shocking plot twists?

Home - Walk in Wardrobes

2011-10-14T13:46:00.000+01:00

Manhattan Closets

Picking out clothes should be fun, almost as fun as wearing them. The way clothes are stored will improve this experience dramatically. This is where walk in wardrobes come in, every girls dream! No more grabbing crumpled clothes in a hurry, half fallen off their hangers, but having knitwear, shoes, coats, dresses all laid out, hanging there, just waiting to be taken out & shown a good time, or you know... the office.

There are many options to consider to suit every budget, from fully designed and fitted to DIY. Aim to maximize your space with a mix of drawers, shelf & hanging space. After all, you wouldn’t want your shoes just piled into a drawer, neatly lined up along shelves makes for an easily accessible early morning decision. Well easy-ish.

Turning a spare room into a walk in wardrobe can even add value to your home, giving it identity and purpose, so what are you waiting for?

Beauty - Split End Saver

2011-10-14T13:32:00.000+01:00

Have you ever looked at the ends of your hair to find them frazzled, split and snapping? I know I have. Once those nasty split ends set it, they can be a pain to get rid of without a healthy chop. Wouldn't it be nice if you could just seal them back together and go back to having slinky locks from root to tip?

TRESemme have come to the rescue with their brand spanking new range Split Remedy which claims to reduce split ends by up to 80% after just three washes. The range includes a shampoo, conditioner, leave in treatment, recovery masque and serum which all work to bind together split ends, preventing the split ends from creeping up the hair shaft and creating a long lasting issue.

If that's not good enough, all the products come with a very reasonable price point ranging from £4.99 to £5.50. Not half bad.

Image of the Day - Nailed

2011-10-13T14:26:00.002+01:00

Rococo Nail Apparel in Hip Hop layered with Illamasqua Nail Varnish in Spartan.

WIN - Dolce and Gabbana Crayon Intense CLOSED

2011-10-13T10:46:00.001+01:00

THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED

The Dolce and Gabbana eyeliner in Coffee is one of my all time favourites.

A lovely rich brown infused with a touch of golden sparkle it's perfect on its own for the daytime or teamed with a slick of black liquid liner for after sunset. It's brightens and wakes up the eyes and is just that little bit more ooh la la than a standard brown liner. The formulation is soft and smudgy but doesn't disappear.

Essentially, it's my dream eye pencil. I want to share the love, so I headed to my nearest Dolce and Gabbana counter last week and picked up an extra one to give away to one of you lucky readers.

The giveaway is open to everyone, all you have to do is leave a comment below letting me know what your favourite makeup product is. Easy!

For extra entries, like Twelve52's Facebook page or follow with Google Friend Connect and let me know you've done so with your comment. You can also tweet a link to this page, including #Twelve52giveaway, for an extra entry.

The giveaway will close on the 28th of October at 9am. Don't forget to check back on the day to see if you're a winner.

Good luck!

Food - Jamie's 30 Minute Meals

2011-10-13T10:10:00.001+01:00

I hold my hands up... I'm a big Jamie Oliver fan.

I don't want to be. I feel like that man should annoy me to my very core, but god help me I love his recipes, his cook books and his TV shows. There's no point denying it, I love Jamie Oliver too.

Jamie's new book, 30 Minute Meals: A Revolutionary Approach to Cooking Good Food Fast, promises a lot. Entire meals in just half an hour in fact. Now, for someone (cough, me) who always ends up getting flustered over food timing and has accidentally served up tea at 9.30pm on more than one occasion, this could prove to be a bit of a life saver.

Along with the beautiful, glossy photography and simple, no fuss recipes comes a new format of cookbook. Meals in Minutes focuses on just that... meals. Four course menus come all wrapped up together in one long recipe with all the ingredients bundled together. It shows you how to cook thewhole set, step by step, so that it all comes together at the end. If anyone has ever found their vegetables cooked fifteen minutes before the roast is done, you'll be breathing a sight of relief right now... as am I.

Don't go thinking that this is going to be sublimely easy though. You need to be a dab hand at multi-tasking and juggling several things at once, but with a bit of practice you'll get there. Soon whipping up starters, main courses, side dishes and pud simultaneously will come as second nature.

So perhaps it's time to invest in a new cook book? Better hop to it. The clock is ticking.

Fashion - First Date Outfit

2011-10-13T09:15:00.000+01:00

Ted Baker Volin Long Wool Coat, Miss Selfridge Beaded Shift Dress, Coach Classics Small Leather Shoulder Bag, French Connection Janessa Platform Shoe

What to wear on the first date? It's practically one of life's eternal questions. Do you opt for that sexy little LBD (he won't know what's hit him), or keep it casual in jeans and a perfectly fitting tee (off-duty chic)?

When it comes to first date outfit ideas, there's no right or wrong choice. The most important thing is that you feel comfortable and confident. So, if you're always wearing ballet pumps then don't slip into a pair of vertiginous heels which you can hardly even hobble in.

The key to first date fashion confidence is getting the balance right - granted you want to look knock-his-socks-off gorgeous, but if you don't feel like yourself then you're headed for disaster. Think about mixing things up; opt for a slinky dress, but dress it down with a snug coat or slip into that comfy jeans/tee combo but add a bit of sparkle with a show stopping necklace. Finally, don't forget to smile; it's the best accessory there is.

What do you like to wear on a first date?

Beauty - Multi-taskers

2011-10-12T15:11:00.001+01:00

The next guest writer to come to Twelve52's aid whilst we go through our transition from one HQ to the next, is beauty journalist Fiona from The Beauty Shortlist, a wondrous blog which always has it's finger firmly placed on the pulse of the beauty industry. Today, Fiona is sharing her favourite multi-tasking beauty products with us.

The one thing we all want to buy (which isn’t for sale) is time. But downsizing your beauty products, replacing individual ones with one or two great all-rounders can save you shelf space, time and money. And if you’re travelling and don’t want to take a stash of mixed products with you, here are three of my all-time, top multi-tasking treats, each one a hard working modern classic. (Decant into mini-pots before popping into your airport-friendly hand luggage).

EVE LOM Cleanser

Cleanses – balances – calms – exfoliates – conditions - heals

Vogue called this the “best cleanser in the world” and I discovered this one pot wonder when I bought an Eve Lom starter kit a few years ago. I quickly became smitten with my new mini pot cleanser!

This balm-type formula cleanses, balances, calms, exfoliates and conditions skin – and after all that it even manages to remove every trace of make-up. You’ll find chamomile, hops, clove and eucalyptus oil and cocoa butter in here but a quick aside here…it does have a subtle eucalyptus “wake up” scent to it, so if you’re not keen on eucalyptus, this might not be the cleanser for you).

Massage a small amount onto the face and rinse off with a warm, damp muslin cloth. Clove and eucalyptus have antiseptic properties, so it’ll deal with excess bacteria, too. Leaves skin soft, clean but not “tight”.

NEALS YARD Wild Rose Beauty Balm

Nourishes – calms – exfoliates – cleanses - heals – quenches dry skin – helps protect lips in winter

At first glance this might seem similar to the Eve Lom Cleanser but delve deeper and it couldn’t be more different. This unctuous, rose-scented balm with concentrated rosehip oil is a stellar skin quencher - it helps repair, firm and smooth skin, but there’s more… I fell in love with this deep purple pot last year and have unofficially been using it as a hand and lip balm since. Because it has hemp, starflower and rosemary seed oil, it helps calm and heal skin, too. Also works as a rich cleanser and exfoliator, but I found I kept coming back to it for its moisturising properties and it works miracles on nails and rough patches (I use the Eve Lom as a facial cleanser instead).

WILD WOOD GROVES Organic Lavender Argan Oil

Conditions hair – nails – works as a facial serum – soothes dry patches – aids sleep – calming – helps reduce scarring

Sophie Dahl’s a fan and it’s one of Beauty Shortlist’s all time faves. Moroccan argan oil is legendary – it’s fantastic for skin, hair and nails, and this is a real all-rounder.

This lovely delicate lavender-scented oil is a great hair conditioning treatment, while its surprisingly fine texture (in fact it’s not in the least bit “oily”) makes it an interesting “serum” that sinks in really quickly.

I applied it to my face and around the eyes for a month and my skin definitely looked more luminous. It also seems to work on niggly dry patches (they use it for eczema in Morocco) and you can rub it into cuticles for strong nails and smoother skin. A little goes a long way, I still have some left in the little bottle and it just seems to last for ages. I use it last thing at night on face and hands, the lavender scent’s beautifully soothing. (And if you’ve never seen those Moroccan goats standing in Argan Trees you’ll have to Google a pic!)

Home - Household Fixes, Part Two

2011-10-12T08:29:00.000+01:00

Products from Big Green Smile

Environmentally friendly and responsible products are appearing everywhere, from electric cars to fair trade tea. How we live our lives, the items we use and their affect on the planet is at the forefront of many production concepts. It’s chic to be ecologically aware.

Creating eco friendly, non toxic cleaning products is one of the easiest ways of doing this and most ingredients are found inside your kitchen cupboards. Use old cleaning product spray bottles or jam jars to store.

Lemon juice mixed with a little vegetable oil makes a citrus scented furniture polish.
A pint of water mixed with a couple of tablespoons of vinegar or lemon juice wiped off with old newspaper will make glass or mirrors shine.
Put two drops of natural soap (from any health store) into a pint of water and add a few drops of your favourite essential oil for a simple all purpose disinfectant.
Baking soda neutralizes odours instead of masking them and is a mild abrasive; mixed with water to create a paste and added to a couple of drops to natural liquid soap will clean baths and sinks effectively.
Sprinkling baking soda onto carpet, leaving overnight and vacuuming the next morning will deodorize any pet or tobacco smells.
White vinegar will clean stainless steel, adding shine to pits, pans and sinks.

Team these with a few natural cleaning products from a health store and you’ll wonder why you never switched sooner.

By Abbi

Guest Post - How to Cure Acne

2011-10-11T10:07:00.001+01:00

While Twelve52 moves to it's new HQ, we're handing over the reigns to a couple of brilliant guest writers. First up is Helen from Swish Junction, a blog which all Londoners should know about - if you're not a reader, you're missing out. Over to Helen...

How To Cure Acne

Along with inappropriate boyfriends and bad music taste, we all thought we’d be leaving acne in our teenage days. Funny how it continues to lurk around then when we least need it. In fact, research suggests that as many as 50 percent of adult women suffer from acne at some point in their lives^, myself included. All through my 20s (never in my teens, funnily enough) I had a consistent plague of spots which had been the bane of my appearance. God knows how much I have spent in the quest to kill them off. Through my job in the beauty industry, and a lot of trial and error though, I’ve picked up some tricks and tips along the way and I’m happy to say I’m currently spot-free for the first time in 7 years.

Instant

If only spots disappeared as quickly as they arrived. Spots take time to calm down but make up and little tricks can solve an overnight spot crisis:

*Zap it: if there’s time, apply a spot treatment like Environ Sebuspot, £13.95 directly onto the spot before bed. Night time is primetime for cell turnover and will give your skin a chance to repair itself.

*Cover up: stick to an oil-free, gentle formula. Loose mineral foundation is the best; Bare Escentuals bareMinerals Original SPF15 Foundation, £23, contains zinc (which prevents excess oil production) and mattifies without clogging, leaving your skin to breathe. A brush with strong bristles, like a kabuki brush, will deliver great coverage without looking too chalky.

*DON’T PICK: it’s hard not to, but don’t. I did and I have the scars to prove it. Squeezing will cause inflammation, slow down the process of the spot disappearing and spread the bacteria, actually causing more spots.

Long-term

*Keep it simple: an over-complicated regime, in my experience, is hard to stick to and will just confuse and aggravate your skin. Try sensitive formulas that won’t strip your skin of natural oils, and don’t be afraid of using oil-based products to balance out your skin. Tried and trusted include Dermalogica Precleanse, £21, La Roche Posay Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel for Oily Sensitive Skin, £10.21 and Neutrogena Visibly Clear Oil-Free Moisturiser, £3.99

*Stick to your regime: Again, switching products won’t allow your skin to get used to certain ingredients and can cause your skin to breakout in protest. Products need at least 6 weeks before their effects can be seen so some consistency is required.

*Doctor: don’t be embarrassed or think it’s not a ‘proper’ problem. It is when it’s affecting your confidence. They can refer you to a dermatologist on the NHS, judge the root issue causing your spots, whether it’s hormonal or otherwise, and prescribe something topical or a pill to take to regulate oil production.

SOURCE: Acne.org

News - Kristen Stewart in GQ

2011-10-06T10:39:00.000+01:00

I've never been a fan of Twilight and I've always wondered what Kristen Stewart's reluctance to smile was all about. Basically, I'm not the actress' biggest fan. That said, she's certainly caught my eye with her shoot for the November issue of GQ, which is out today.

Covering the mag and with a photo spread inside, Kristen looks just amazing in the vintage themed shoot. I adore this look on her; it makes me want to die my hair and buy a vintage style bikini.

What do you think of Kristen's GQ shoot?

Fashion Trend Report - Fabulous Forties

2011-10-06T09:09:00.000+01:00

Donna Karan Pencil Skirt, Gucci Blouse, Gucci Wool Trench Coat, Prada Sandals, Miu Miu Oversized Clutch

Each week during our Solved Edition we'll be delving in to a different trend for the autumn/winter season, so you can make sure you're up to date with the hottest styles to wear over the next few months and start stocking up the wardrobe. This week, the trend is the 1940s and my, oh my, is it glamorous.

Getting a handle on this elegant look is easy if you just remember a few buzzwords; pearls, fur, waist, gloves, pencil skirts and glamour. The 1940s fashion trend is fairly conservative as not much skin should be on show (keep those hemlines just below the knee), but has an alluring and sexy edge thanks to nipped in waists and figure hugging skirts.

The colour palette is suitably autumnal of course, with grey and black leading the way. However, tones of rich wine and luscious deep green were also spotted wafting down the catwalks.

Add some red lippy and you're good to go.

Will you be wearing the forties trend this season?

Image of the Day - Miaow

2011-10-05T14:11:00.000+01:00

I'm a little bit taken with my new cat's eye sunglasses. I've been lusting after a pair for months and finally found a great shape which actually suits my face. The best bit is, they were a complete and utter bargain at just £12.00 from ASOS.

News - Katy Perry for ghd

2011-10-05T09:09:00.000+01:00

Katy Perry is once again fronting ghd's latest campaign; this time for the Scarlet Collection, ghd's Christmas offering for 2011.

The pop star was photographed by David LaChapelle for a Snow White themed campaign which has a distinctly twenties influence to it. She's taken on both the evil queen and snow white herself for the shoot, which look do you prefer?

Beauty - Home Made Body Scrub

2011-10-05T08:51:00.000+01:00

Anyone who knows me knows that I love beauty products. I'm a complete product junkie. The trouble is it can become more than a little but pricey to be splurging on make up, skincare and bath products at any given opportunity.

One of my favourite beauty products is a good, hard working body scrub. It must do three things;

Effectively slough away dead skin
Smell incredible
Leave moisturising oils behind, even when rinsed away

A body exfolaitor which can do all this is a winner in my book, but they're usually on the more expensive side (oh hello, Elemis Lime and Ginger Salt Glow). So, when I'm trying to be virtuous and exfoliate without spending a small fortune I turn to my kitchen cupboard for a home made body scrub.

Fancy whipping up some for yourself? Check out my best body scrub recipe.

This recipe will make enough for one full body use. I prefer to make it in small batches as it means that you don't need to worry about using preservatives to prevent the product from going mouldy.

You will need;

2 tablespoons Soft Brown Sugar
1 tablespoon Sea Salt
1 tablespoon Almond Oil
1 teaspoon Olive Oil
2 drops Grapefruit Essential Oil
1 drop Peppermint Essential Oil

How to make it;

Simply combine the almond and olive oils in a small dish before adding the grapefruit and peppermint essential oils. In a separate dish, combine the soft brown sugar and sea salt. Finally, mix the wet and dry ingredients together for a luxurious exfoliating body scrub for mere pennies.

How to use it;

Make sure you do a test patch of the scrub to ensure that you're not allergic to any of the essential oils.

I prefer to use this scrub on dry skin, just before jumping in the shower. I find it's more stimulating, does a better job of exfoliating and actually has time to work on the skin before it's washed down the plug hole.

Rub the skin scrub into the body in circular motions before rinsing away. There's no need to moisturise afterwards; the almond and olive oil will do that for you.

Be careful! The shower will be slippery with that oil and so will you! Take care not to slip.

Do you ever make your own beauty products?

Home - Household Fixes, Part One

2011-10-05T07:45:00.000+01:00

Lurking in your kitchen cupboards lie a variety of ingenious ways to solve many last minute dilemmas and offer chemical free, alternative cleaning solutions.

Take the humble tube of toothpaste, for example. Don’t chance ruining new wallpaper with harsh cleaning sprays removing scuffs or crayon marks; a squeeze of toothpaste on a damp cloth will bring them off, wiping with a clean damp cloth will remove the residue.

Dishwasher scratches on your glassware? Using white toothpaste, especially one that contains baking soda will work the best, as the abrasive nature of the paste will smooth out any minor scratches. Rub the toothpaste into the scratched area with a dry cloth in a circular motion, after rinsing, your crystal glasses should be scratch free, gleaming and ready for use!

Whether you’ve got guests coming and you’re out of cleaner or you prefer an alternative to strongly smelling chemical cleaners, Alka-Seltzer is another non conventional cleaning hero. Drop a couple of these into your toilet bowl and flush before your guests arrive or leaving overnight will bring it to a sparking shine, and is good for removing limescale in hard water areas.

By Abbi

Do you have any tips for round the house?

Image of the Day - Sunshine

2011-10-04T14:43:00.000+01:00

After a busy few days I took an hour for myself this afternoon to sit on the balcony, read my book and drink an ice cold mocha frappuccino. Living in the land of eternal sunshine does have some perks.

Food - How to Make the Perfect Cake Pops

2011-10-04T14:14:00.000+01:00

Move over cupcakes and step aside brownies, there’s a new cakey delight in town and it’s called the cake pop. Cake pops, the delicious bite-sized cakes on sticks, have been around for a while now and are becoming popular amongst wedding planners and hungry tummies alike.

The thing is, how do they get them that shape? How does the cake not crumble? And how do you get the icing so neat? Well, here at Twelve52, we’ve enlisted a cake popping genius! Neli Ban, owner of We Are Delish, is a pro when it comes to sweet delights and she’s offered us an array of tips on how to make your own perfect pops at home.

Over to you, Neli!

Don't even think about making cake pops if you haven't got plenty of time and patience! You really do need to start the process (bake the cake) the day before you need them.

I prefer home-made cake simply because I think it tastes better and I don't think it's that much easier to make it from a mix, but it's really up to you.

Make sure your cake is not too moist. You will need to work out the right ratio of cake and frosting - it will depend on the type of cake so start with less frosting and then add a spoonful at the time. That will help you get the right consistency and shape the cake balls better (if the mixture is too soft, they will go floppy and lose shape, if the mixture is too dry the cake balls will crumble and crack).

Don't make them too big! Remember, they are meant to be a small fun size. Also, if you make them too big, the 'head' will be heavy and that can cause you all sorts of issues!

Make sure you completely cover the cake balls in candy. There should be no gaps, not even near the sticks. That's what makes them stay fresh and moist! However, avoid double-dipping can make it crack.

My favourite decorations are sugarpaste roses - I make them in variety of colours and then simply put them on top before candy sets (this happens quickly so you need to do one at the time).

If you are thinking of adding custom food colouring, remember to use oil based one. Water-based colours will ruin the candy.

So, there you have it. Get your favourite cake recipe and start practising- make sure you let us know how it goes!

You can find out more about We Are Delish at wearedelish.com

By Hollie-Anne

News - Donna Karan at The Outnet

2011-10-04T11:11:00.001+01:00

Queen of casual luxe, Donna Karan, is available at The Outnet right now at discounts of up to 75% off. You can snap up cashmere leggings, camisoles, jeans, skirts and jackets for just a fraction of the original price. Even better, this is truly classical clothing so it will last you season after season. Fancy investing? The range is selling out fast so get browsing now.