Sugaring has been big news this year, as the vegan alternative to the old faithful – waxing. The ‘ancient’ technique has roots in the Middle East, where Cleopatra is rumoured to have been a fan. Using all-natural ingredients, and promising long-lasting results, sugaring bookings have increased on Treatwell by 200% in the last year. Sweet. We spoke to Tanja Westendorff of Sugaring London, to see why it’s on the rise (and exactly what’s involved). If you’re a hair-shifter – shaving, Veet-ing, plucking (bold) – you’re going to want to read this. By Rachel Spedding

A quick search of the hashtag #MeghanMarkle on Instagram right now will bring up all types of inspiration from the British Fashion Awards last night: hair, wardrobe, how to still look ridiculously great halfway through pregnancy. But, the bit that we’re fixated on in the office today is her manicure. Sure, nails are kind of our thing, but Markle's *rumoured* decision to break Royal protocol in the name of a really nice manicure is something we're most definitely in support of.  We've done a little digging (procrastinating), and think we may have found the colour in question. CND's Dark Dahlia. The 'rich, blood-toned'…

Coral hair is a trend we'll happily shout about forever (Kelis – thanks for reminding us how mighty fine it looks). From subtle, pink and pastel, to zesty, brighter shades, it's the surprisingly wearable colour that we're seeing pop up on Instagram a lot lately. Worn best with a blunt cut bob, or rough-textured waves, the colour is the stand out, which means... less time needed styling (hurrah). If you're keen to try, but an all-over colour feels too bold, ask your stylist for a semi-permanent taster. Blonde hair will be toned, or shifted to peach with a dose of…

We all have that one friend (it's me), who loves the beauty stuff. Expensive hairspray (it holds), plush-looking skincare (the gram needs it), regular massages (but my shoulders?), and a hoarder of products (can't justify – just greedy). Here’s everything your beauty-loving friend would like to open on Christmas Day. Read: here’s all the stuff you’re going to want – because I know it’s really you that’s obsessed. By Rachel Spedding

The facts. A gel mani lasts around two weeks. It’s three weeks to Christmas. Book yours now and it’ll be ready for a refresh right before the big day (your next one will last ‘til 2019 – scary). The hard bit? Picking a colour. Like the toss up between tea and coffee, red or white, Ant and Dec – it’s almost impossible to pick a favourite. That’s when expert advice comes in handy. We’re sharing the expert intel, because it’s Christmas – a time for giving. To help you choose your next nail colour, here they are, the most-booked colours of…

It's December. A time for advent calendars, loungewear, and loads of festive socialising. With funds running thin from present-buying (wine-buying), reinventing your hair is the easiest trick for refreshing an outfit, so you can wear the same all-black get up for three parties straight. No judgement here, FYI – you thrifty thing. From 40s style high-shine waves, to intricate braiding, the simplest hair shift keeps things looking interesting up top. An accessory will do the job too – and since 90s slides are proving popular at the moment, adding an extra something-something to your hair style is both 'on trend' and practical. Savvy. A great…

Mistletoe (not holly, the other one), serves more purpose than an awkward kissing encounter in your living room. It adds benefits to your beauty routine too. In fact, the liquid extract – taken from the leaves and stems – has been used in European health practices for a long while. From supple skin, to stronger hair, here are the (unexpected) ways mistletoe can keep you feeling great this festive season. By Rachel Spedding

‘Me time’ is hard to find these days. Between the commuting, the office hours, the extensive socialising (and drafting excuses not to socialise) – it’s tricky to find a slot just for you. When the opportunity arose to visit one of London’s largest – and most reputable – spas, I made time. It’s been four days since my visit to ESPA Life at the Corinthia, and I’m still relaxed. Despite its history – located within the Corinthia Hotel, a building dating back to 1885 – the spa is considered ‘next generation’. Spoiler: I agree. By Rachel Spedding

Around this time the party invites start rolling in. And while a Saturday spent getting a blow dry and turning pruney in a bubble bath is always the best pre-party plan, when it’s an office shindig, such luxury is a little more tricky to factor in. Since you’ll probably be doing your makeup in the toilet – sharing a red lipstick with your nearest and dearest colleagues – we’ve rounded up 11 tips that will make everything else a little easier. Hacks by the bucketload. By Rachel Spedding

There's only so much an at-home exfoliator or bottle of fancy-looking hyaluronic acid can do when dealing with skin woes – if you're on a mission for clear, radiant, fresh-looking skin, you might rather crack out the big guns. Microdermabrasion. In 30 minutes (or less), you'll look (and feel) reborn. Here's everything you need to know about the 'half hour face lift' facial.  By Rachel Spedding

We’ve created our own festive mani, because sometimes a slick of burgundy polish just isn’t enough. It’s navy, it’s star-coated, it’s glam (but, not like, glam-glam), and you can literally ask for it at your favourite salon. Easy. Two coats of navy, topped with stars, all cured under a UV lamp to secure that gel goodness. That means it’ll stay atop your nails for two weeks plus. You can see how it looks right here, and you can find out where to get it right here. Spoiler: lots of salons, because everyone loves festive fingertips. Search the hashtag #TreatwellFestiveMani to…

It's Black Friday week. By now you've seen a list of tremendous deals circulated around your office, and have updated your Christmas list accordingly to make sure your lover (/mum) gets you the good stuff at half the price. Allow us to swoop in with more temptation, because we've got deals incoming, and decision making is tough. If you're wondering what to book when the discounts roll in, this should help – our six most booked treatments of 2018. AKA, what everyone else is choosing. Happy scrolling. By Rachel Spedding

If fashion has taught us anything over the years it’s that trends come and go. Only the best stand the test of time and love it or hate it, leopard print has done just that. Classic yet versatile, this feisty feline print can be worn with pretty much anything (the clashier the better) which is why we’re declaring it the go-to nail for party season. Don't get us wrong, we love a good burgundy, metallic or glitter in the run up to Christmas, but why not switch it up? It turns out we’re not the only ones who are jumping on…

The best bits of a spa day: relaxing, the treatment(s), sipping fizz, wearing a fluffy robe. All can be enjoyed on your own, and actually, I’m suggesting it’s better that way. Recent studies show that over 80% of millennial travellers are heading out solo. Sure, travelling half an hour to your nearest spa may feel a little different to a single trip ‘round South America, but the motive remains the same: time for you.  Here's everything you need to know about hitting the spa on your own.  By Rachel Spedding

What if I told you that (in 10 easy steps), you could become one of those people who glide through the Christmas season with ease? You could have all your presents bought pre-23rd. You could learn to cook in the next 41 days. You could distinguish Prosecco from Champagne (and like, actually understand the difference?). You could have a Christmas tree that lives to see the big day. I'm giving you this – sort of – with 10 tips for your easiest festive season yet. From where to shop, to when to book a manicure, here's your Christmas, wrapped up. By Rachel Spedding

When it comes to celebrating the festivities, anything goes. Tinsel-lined jumper – fine. Day of the week socks – wonderful. Tree-shaped earrings – encouraged. But, if you're used to a simple nude nail or *that* beaut burgundy colour, then the arrival of the cold-weather season and a cameo from Father Christmas probably won't sway you to try anything more OTT. That's fine, we've got you. Speckle bare nails with gold leaf, try the glitter accent finger thing, or coat your mani in stars (it's adorable – promise);  if you're yet to dabble in the nail art world, you'll most certainly need a…

Ah, the festive season. The lights are up, the present lists are written, and Michael Bublé is back on the scene (yes). Stress is guaranteed – ‘tis the season of fluster really. But, it’s good to prepare for it now, so we can embrace as much of the ‘joy’ as possible. Here’s a summary of the inevitable stresses you’ll endure over the next few months, with a little guidance on how to deal with them. An early Christmas present for you. By Rachel Spedding

The moustache. The mouth brow. For some, a mark of adulthood. For others, a really fun thing to twist at the sides. Either way, it can take some expertise to nurture it and style like a pro. Consider us that – here’s an everything you need to know guide on managing your moustache, from first hair sighting to full-blown Hogan. By Rachel Spedding

If you’re looking to get rid of upper lip hair, there are a bunch of ways to do it. From removal cream, to the old bleach method, those who choose to shift it tend to have their go-to method, but it’s worth considering these longer-lasting techniques. FYI, no one dictates which hair coats your face/body/head except for you. We’ve all got facial hair, no big. But, if you-doing-you means plucking your lip and beyond (guilty), then there are simpler solutions out there. Here are the ones to try. By Rachel Spedding

Not to get too artistic over the matter, but there’s a bunch of golden leaves, conkers, and pumpkin spice lattes kicking about outdoors right now – and it’s inspiring hair dyeing. Sure, copper-toned hair is no ‘new trend’, but as colour technology advances each year, the shade selection expands (as does the vibrancy). With “Amber Slate” an upcoming trend for 2019 – as called out by Wella Hair Professionals – now’s a great time to go all-out red. As for maintenance; red pigment is sensitive to light (especially when it’s coloured), so protect your locks from the sun where possible –…

Ombré, balayage. The result is really great hair, we know that much. But, what’s the difference? Quite a lot actually. Read on, so you know what to ask your hairdresser for at your next salon trip (besides a strong cup of tea, and a really great Sudoku book – just me?). By Rachel Spedding

According to The Fashion Spot’s bi annual diversity report, the class of models walking the runway in New York, London, Paris and Milan this past September was the most inclusive ever, meaning that for the first time in history, models of colour accounted for 44.8% of runway castings. As a result, the rise in black women walking the runway presented a welcome and much-needed shift in the beauty and hair looks created backstage. And although we’ve seen a slow rise in big fashion brands embracing natural afro hair over the past few years, this September diversity was at an all…

It's World Vegan Month, and we'd like to celebrate that. As the number of us following a plant-based lifestyle increases (dramatically in 2018), we're taking small – or very large – steps toward bettering our planet, as well as ourselves. But, despite the supposed ease of switching an everyday diet for vegan alternatives, assessing our beauty routine can take a little more work, as brands continue to guard manufacturing practices and, well, ingredients. It'll take some research (and maybe sacrificing some of your go-to products), but here are seven simple ways to 'go vegan' with your beauty routine.