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HOLIDAY ESSENTIALS WITH M&S

26/06/2015
Holiday essentials
Holiday essentials
Holiday essentials

If there was one word to describe my mood/thoughts/motives/life over the past few weeks, it would be Wanderlust. Whether it’s because of my recent inability to stop working 18hr days and therefore the total need to take a break, or the constant stream of Holiday envy via Instagram – yeah, stalking following travel bloggers isn’t really the best idea for this – I have been thinking/dreaming of a holiday consistently so my fiance and I decided (over an Indian Takeaway and wine binge, no less) that we’d go away somewhere in the next few months.

At the moment, we are umming and ahhing over a city break or a beach holiday but either way, I am beyond excited. So I thought with this mysterious trip looming that I would put together a Holiday Essentials post – as my last holiday/summer type essential post went down so well. Thanks guys [insert embarrassed smile emoji here] – and when Marks and Spencer got in touch and asked if I’d like to collaborate with them on this project, it was of course a no brainer.

I mean, surely this means I’m practically best mates with Rosie Huntington Whitely and David Gandy now, right? Right…


So, here are my holiday essentials in the form of my “must-have”/”does it all” holiday clothing item and some beauty/grooming products and tools.

The Fashion essentials
Marks and Spencer holiday
Marks and Spencer holiday

Marks and Spencer holiday
Marks and Spencer holiday

Marks and Spencer holiday
Marks and Spencer holiday

Dear Lord, please bring the sunshine out because I want to wear this two-piece all summer long. Love, Elle. This two-piece is the most comfortable, stunningly well made linen co-ord* that is just so incredibly versatile. Not only is it the perfect beach cover up that takes you from the sand to a beachside restaurant, but paired with a pair of wedges or summer heels and you could easily dress this up and wear it out for dinner in the evening. If that’s not enough, pop on some converse and you have the perfect sight-seeing outfit. Not only is it just versatile though, it’s also so ridiculously comfortable – I may have also slept in it on the day of shooting these photos. Sue me… – and chic with the stunning crochet pattern/design. This is easily my must pack item. You go Glen Coco Marks and Spencer!

White Sliders

If you’re like me, then you’ll no doubt take a ridiculously large amount of shoes with you that you definitely don’t need – and probably won’t wear – but a girl needs her options right? Right… However, as I’m talking purely about essentials today, I’m just going to choose one footwear option and that is of course a pair of sandals/sliders. These sliders are actually from Primark and I completely wore them to death last summer. They’re made of a waterproof foam-esque material so are perfect for on the beach/around the pool… but they also look quite smart and dressy paired with the right outfit. So much love!

The same – totally ridiculous – logic applies for sunglasses. I probably take around 4 pairs per holiday – making decisions is my nemesis – but for my essentials, I opted for these Rayban Aviators because they’re classic, they go with everything, and they make me feel like someone from The Hills.

 “I want to forgive you, and I want to forget you” #LaurenConradGoals

A bikini. Pretty self explanatory right? This beauty is from Primark and I can’t wait to wear it. I basically just can’t wait to be somewhere hot enough to be able to wear it….
Hair Essentials
Tangle Teazer

Let’s get the no-brainer out of the way first, the Tangle Teazer. Sea Salty/beachy hair might look amazing, but we all know that when it comes to brushing that shiz out… ain’t nobody got time for that. The tangle teazer brushes through tangles so easily and just keeps hair in tip top condition.
philip kingsley swimcap
The next item is one that I was so excited to try and equally really intrigued by. It’s the Philip Kingsley Swim cap and is basically a cream that protects against UV rays, chlorine, sea and pool water as well as keeping your hair colour bright and vibrant. In other words, it’s perfect, no actually… essential, for a summer holiday/trip. It’s so simple to use too, you just put it in your damp hair, comb through and then continue on with your shampoo and conditioner. [*insert meerkat accent* Simples…]

leighton denny
leighton denny i love juicy
Nail care

I am self confessed Nail polish whore – this is where my grandparents spit out their tea because they didn’t quite read that sentence right πŸ˜‰ – so I was so happy when I saw 3 mini Leighton Denny polishes * in my lovely M&S package. I’m currently wearing I love Juicy (slightly questionable name there Leighton) which is a gorgeous orange toned red which we all know is just the summer holiday colour. 

Tan Essentials
james read overnight sleep mask face
james read overnight sleep mask face

OK, so you’ve got your clothing sorted, your nails are on fleek – oh for f**ks god’s sake, when will I learn to not take the piss and use nauseating “down with the kids” phrases in a blog post, subsequently hating myself? – your hair is covered… it’s time to get your skin, and more specifically, tan, in check. First thing’s first, the face tan. It’s so, so hard to get face fake tan right but for me, it’s so essential as I use sunblock on my face all year round so I am forever that idiot with a tanned body and casper the ghost face. James Read’s Overnight tan sleep mask* is genius! It’s clear, blends in seamlessly, you basically cannot feel a single thing on your face. It’s a pleasure to use and it’s an even bigger pleasure to wake up with a natural tan on my pasty face. πŸ™‚
fake bake amplify
On to the body and I am so excited to tell you about this next item. It’s not just any gradual tan – it’s an M&S gradual tan – No, literally… M&S stock Fake Bake which is why I got my mitts on Fake Bake’s Amplify* tan. It’s a gradual tan that also works by prolonging your tan – fake or natural – as well as giving you colour, and preparing your skin for a holiday tan. 
best face spf
For when you’re actually on holiday, you’re going to be needing all the SPF and my top pick for facial SPF is Ultrasun’s Face SPF* which is so amazing as it’s probably the only face SPF that absorbs within seconds, doesn’t leave you feeling sticky or oily, makeup applies seamlessly over the top… it’s perfect.

Could I possibly say the word SPF any more times if I tried?… SPF

For your body, if I’m being totally honest, I’m not too fussy. As long as it has Factor 50, has complete UV protection and smells good, I’m happy. Simple things please simple minds and all that…

The After sun essentials
Sun smart M&S aftersun

You’ve spent the day on the beach in the sun, or exploring the city in the sun – basically, you’ve been exposed to all the sun – so now it’s time to look after your frazzled skin. After sun is amazing if you’ve got burnt at all as it’s cooling and soothing, but it’s also just brilliant anyway to prevent your skin from peeling and prolonging that tan. M&S’s Sun smart aftersun* is my favourite for this as it sinks in well and smells amazing!

origins overnight mask

Moisturise, moisturise, moisturise. *Confession time* when I went on holiday to Dubai, I actually only took Origin’s overnight mask and used it morning and night as my daily moisturiser because it’s so nourishing and hydrating. The sun completely dries out and dehydrates my skin so it totally just drinks that shit shiz up and I’m sure yours will too.

Ren radiance renewal mask

Exfoliate – We all know the importance of exfoliating our skin, but I recently was lucky enough to be able to try the highly lusted over Ren Radiance renewal mask* which is a face mask and chemical exfoliator. This.Stuff.Is.Incredible! (Apologies for that completely grammatically incorrect sentence right there.) But seriously, it leaves the skin feeling so soft, smooth and glowing and I will 100% be repurchasing this when it’s used up.

[insert “cry face emoji” to represent the feels coming from my bank account when that day comes]

So that brings this Holiday’s Essentials post to an end. I really enjoyed putting this piece together because not only did I totally get into the holiday spirit, but I also discovered just how incredible Marks and Spencers Holiday wear and beauty/skincare department is. I’d highly recommend checking it out online and in store.
I would love to know what your Holiday essentials are? Have you tried any of the picks that I mentioned in this post? I would love to hear your thoughts πŸ™‚
As always, thank you so much for reading. I hope you enjoyed this post!
xx
*Thank you so much Marks and Spencer for collaborating with me on this post. As always, all opinions are my own and 100% my honest, genuine opinion. Because I’m as real/brutal as it gets… πŸ˜‰

105 responses to “HOLIDAY ESSENTIALS WITH M&S”

  1. Jordan says:

    Omggg I absolutely adore that two piece! M&S do some amazing stuff I absolutely adore their bikinis and underwear as well!

    hellomissjordan.com xx

  2. That two piece is stunning!

    Lauren xx

  3. I think this is one of my favourite outfits from you Elle, you look stunning! That bikini is beautiful as well.. might have to check those out inshore! xx

    Sam // Samantha Betteridge

  4. Hanh says:

    Great picks Elle, love the bikini and you look cute in the co-ords. I just come back from hols and now itching to book my honeymoon soon! Where you thinking of going away hun?

    Hanh x | hanhabelle

  5. Rosy Flynn says:

    That two piece *hear emoji* I'd totally have slept in it too, wore it for a week… just me?

    Loved the glen coco ref, looking forward to seeing where you go on holiday – I have holiday envy too, sadly my other half is off on holiday this year but I'm staying behind WAH!

    Rosy | sparklesoflight76.blogspot.co.uk

  6. Meg Siobhan says:

    That two piece is beautiful!!! Hopefully you find somewhere to go soon πŸ™‚

    A Little Twist Of…

  7. This M&S two piece is beautiful! Don't worry the forecast looks hot for next week so I'm sure you can flaunt it then. πŸ˜‰

    http://www.duchessoffashion.co.uk

  8. Sam Bugeja says:

    That co-ord is beautiful!
    Also, I love how much M&S have up'd their skincare game.. Fab post as always.
    Sam xx

    http://www.beautifie.com

  9. Your outfit is so cute!

    CANDICE | BEAUTY CANDY LOVES

  10. Beautylyme says:

    LOVE the bikini & two piece! I love how you can beauty & fashion in M&S! xx

    Beautylymin

  11. Izzy D says:

    I'm so impressed by M&S haha, I love that co-ord so much you look lovely x
    http://wearsheiz.blogspot.co.uk

  12. - Karen says:

    Ellie that linen co-ord is INCREDIBLE! I would have never thought to look in M&S so thank you for bringing it into my life! πŸ˜€ LOVED this post!

    Style Sunriseβ˜€

    πŸ™‚
    x

  13. Lauren S says:

    That two piece though! So so gorgeous, it looks super comfy too (don't blame you sleeping in it!) and I have the REN mask and it's the best thing ever – you will NEED the repurchase!

    Lauren x
    Britton Loves | Lifestyle Food Beauty

  14. Jenny says:

    The Origins overnight mask sounds amazing!! Never had one of these before and I've always loved REN such a great brand and adore your outfit xx

    http://www.krystelcouture.com β™₯

  15. Love your outfit, looks perfect for the holidays!

    http://www.notesofglam95.blogspot.it/

  16. SBUK says:

    Love the bikini! Can't believe it's only Primark. Looks a lot more designer like. Must go look at their Summer collection. πŸ™‚ x

    Renata | Speaking Beauty UK

  17. Ok I'm dying over this adorable set! I love the lace detialing and that bikini!! Love the probt!

    <3 Shannon
    Upbeat Soles
    ο»Ώ

  18. Such a gorgeous co-ord! I need to try the Origins drink up mask x

    Heather | Of Beauty & Nothingness x

  19. Gorgeous holiday look! I LOVE the co-ord, can't wait to see where you end up booking! Hopefully you can take Rosie and David along with you too πŸ˜‰

    Shot From The Street | Fashion Blog

  20. Marie Abbott says:

    I love Origins, and all the items you've feature here! Better bet myself shopping soon πŸ™‚

    http://www.makemeupmarie.com x

  21. LBG says:

    Love that two piece, you could also make other looks with them! The sunglasses are cool, now I need to watch The Hills too! I thought you were best buds with Rosie and David?

    Leftbankgirl.blogspot.com

  22. BeLL beLL says:

    Really love your outfit and your sandals. Want to follow each other? Just let me know if you did so that I can follow you back too. Much love! β™₯

    http://sartorialwackoe.blogspot.com/

  23. angelina says:

    Love that two piece! You pull it off so well, and I completely know what you mean with wanting to travel already. Travel bloggers have the best life!

    Angelina Is

  24. Rubi Ani says:

    I love the co-ord set, it's so cute!
    I'm so feeling the wanderlust at the mo. One of my friends has just moved to Dubai, I'm so jealous haha!
    Rubi | Instagram | The Den | http://www.the-den.blogspot.com

  25. I LOVE the two-piece, it looks like the perfect summer outfit, it's so versatile! Might just have to go and get one myself! πŸ™‚

    Heather Xx
    100waysto30.co.uk

  26. Emma Heapy says:

    Great photos I love that co Ord xx
    Glossy Boutique

  27. Imogen Smith says:

    Love the co-ord! I'd really like to get something similar in monochrome myself! I use the Origins Drink Up mask too, it's divine :)! x

    Miss Imogen Smith

  28. BerryBloomXO says:

    I LOVE Rosie's line for M&S – yes, you're basically her bestie! πŸ˜‰
    The two piece is gorgeous and enjoy the sun while you can, we all know what British weather is like! :')
    xoxo,

    BerryBloomXO.com | Beauty & Lifestyle Blog ο»Ώ
    also on BLOGLOVIN ο»Ώ

  29. * Helen * says:

    Gorgeous outfit, you look lovely! <3

    I have a new post up on the blog, would love to know your thoughts:

    * Electric Sunrise – Fashion and Lifestyle Blog *

    x

  30. lovely post<3 followed you on bloglovin and gfc, stay in touch!
    BLOG | BLOGLOVIN | LOOKBOOK
    x

  31. You look stunning, as always of course!. I am also LOVING those sunnies, I have the same pair, we have great taste πŸ˜‰

    xx -n
    Naomi in Wonderland

  32. Rachel-Beth says:

    Elle, you look so cute in those co-ords, gotta love M & S- what a great brand to collaborate with πŸ™‚ And literally still laughing at that quote from 'The Hills'- I used to be addicted to that show as a teen

    Rachel xx
    http://www.thedailyluxe.net

  33. I need to get my hand on a tangle teaser!x
    Jess x
    http://www.momentsofbeautywars.blogspot.co.uk

  34. I love Drink Up and the Glycolactic Radiance Renewal Mask – both are definitely coming away with me! I love the sound of the Swim Cap too and your outfit is so cute! xx

    Jasmine Talks Beauty

  35. crafty-zone says:

    I really like your two- pieces, it has great print and color and btw, I used to watch The Hills too, I was addicted to this tv show πŸ˜‰

    http://crafty-zone.blogspot.com

  36. Really lovely outfit! I'd never think to look in M&S as they seem to target an older audience but I really like this two piece πŸ™‚ I also didn't know that they had beauty/holiday essentials stuff haha :') Really lovely post and I also love how you did your June favourites video πŸ™‚ xx

  37. Izzy says:

    these are great holiday essentials! that two piece is sooo cute, and looks so comfy and perfect for wearing all day long on vacation! πŸ™‚

    Metallic Paws

  38. Eden Mint says:

    Great list of holiday essentials! Love that two piece outfit, perfect for summer. I hope you get some sunshine, our summer has been pretty rainy so far.

    http://www.mintnotion.com

  39. Gabrielle says:

    This two piece is so pretty – the light blue looks beautiful with the embroidered pattern and it looks lightweight, making it the perfect look for summer! πŸ™‚

    Gabrielle | A Glass Of Ice

    x

  40. Becki Lewis says:

    Ah that two piece is so gorgeous, I wish I'd popped into M&S when I was doing my holiday shopping! I loved this post Elle, you've made me want to buy so many new products!
    I've had the James Reed Sleep Tan Mask sitting in my draw for ages now, I've been too scared to use it! You've convinced me to give it a go as I currently have a super white face and body! :')
    Becki | beautyandthebrunette.co.uk
    xxx

  41. La Travelera says:

    I got two bikini sets this year in M&S they go really nice and good quality! X
    My post:
    http://www.travelera.es/2015/04/under-water-red-sea.html?m=1

  42. KP says:

    That matching set is lovely, but I also love those white sandals!

    Eleventh & Sixteenth

  43. jadiee bevan says:

    amazing blog post πŸ™‚

    I have shared your post πŸ˜€

    Jadiee'sLittleBlog

    Jade

  44. Great coordinating outfit and those white sandals are cute, too!

    β™₯
    Amber
    All the Cute
    Today’s Post: Cold-Shoulder Floral Romper

  45. Anonymous says:

    I can't believe this bikini is from Primark! just so pretty!
    Nati xx
    http://www.simplyartdicted.com

  46. That two piece looks lovely on you. Such a fabulous colour, with gorgeous detailing. We've just got to keep praying for more sun!!! x

  47. This is a gorgeous look, so perfect for this amazing setting! Have a great week!

    xo, Bry

    Hold.On.To.Your.Hats.Naughty&Nice

  48. Georgia Jade says:

    that two piece is so lovely! I've got a suitcase filled with summer clothes for my trip the UK so let's hope the sun comes out over there! This week is going to be high 20's so hopefully it stays that way! Love the post Elle!

    Georgia | The Weekend Attic – Personal Style, Beauty and Lifestyle

  49. Alina Bostan says:

    You look amazing, I love this two piece on you, so so pretty and of course you pull it off so well. I never look into M&S for clothes or beauty products but they've got some amazing brands don't they?! Hope you're feeling much better lovely and fingers crossed that you actually get to go away somewhere this year, you definitely deserve a holiday πŸ™‚ x

    Beauty with charm

  50. Jessica says:

    lovely clothing pieces!:)

    check out my blog + follow too?
    wildvagabondss.blogspot.com

    xo,
    Jess β™‘

  51. Anonymous says:

    I love your blog. Excellent lay out of essential assortments. I am envious of your sandals and gorgeous 2-piece set! You are very beautiful!

    I'm blogging about similar things, check it out and let me know what you think: http://www.kellmenow.com

    XO K

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