PERSONAL ESSAYS
[PLEASE NOTE my clippings are in sections but are not in date order; there are pieces from different time periods for you to enjoy throughout, from 2015 right up until the current date in 2023. They are also just a snippet of my work - please email me if you would like to see other samplings, of which there are many, many more!]
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I am Beauty Editor at eliza.co.uk, where I am head of my department; responsible for editorial beauty content and strategy across the website and social, as well as working on selected beauty branded partnerships.
Prior to this, I had been a freelance writer and editor for 3.5 years, and have written for some of the most esteemed publications in the UK (and worldwide), from Refinery29 to Grazia, Coveteur to Dazed. I worked as a regular beauty contributor to Bustle UK, as well as Glamour UK, Marie Claire, and The Mail on Sunday's You Magazine, where I covered everything from fashion to lifestyle online.
Before embarking upon my freelance career, I held positions at Glamour UK, heading up the online beauty section for 2.5 years, and Space NK, where I worked on the editorial team at head office.
As well as a wide range of editorial experience, I also have copywriting credentials, and have written for and consulted for brands such as The Inkey List. I have worked on a wide range of branded commercial content for titles like The Telegraph, Marie Claire, and Cosmopolitan.
As well as being a Beauty Editor, I enjoy writing personal essays and am passionate about content relating to current affairs (particularly across the U.S. political landscape), women's issues, mental health and news within the LGBTQ+ community.
I am open to opportunities to speak on panels and in podcasts.
Please email me at [email protected] for any queries, or for Eliza-related work, contact me at [email protected]
PERSONAL ESSAYS
Frustratingly, these experiences - and many of the questions that come with them - are not only contributing further to bi-erasure, but are a direct product of it, says Lois Shearing, author of Bi The Way (a book that I have personally found to be exceptionally useful in my own journey).
The pandemic has been hard, particularly for those with mental health illnesses. Here, beauty journalist Rebecca Fearn explains how nail art helped her manage her OCD. I was diagnosed with OCD and generalised anxiety disorder 11 years ago. For me, the OCD manifests itself through intrusive, anxious thoughts - called obsessions - followed by monotonous checking rituals, known as compulsions.
First off, it goes without saying that the banning of abortion in America (one of the Western world's so-called most democratic, liberal countries) should be alarming to all women everywhere. It should be seen as an attack on us all as a collective, and one we need to talk about, fight against, and feel angry about.
Beauty Editor Rebecca Fearn on the most memorable perfumes she has worn over the years that remind her of her travels and experiences.
While being able to remain at home and having a home to remain in during the coronavirus outbreak is a privilege, it's hard to deny that lockdown has been a challenge. It tore us away from the comforts of everyday life - the joy of sharing a pint with friends or celebrating a birthday with family.
In 2014, after a particularly tough break-up, I begrudgingly went on antidepressants for anxiety and OCD. I'd suffered with my mental health since around 2010 but had never tried medication because I was scared of the side-effects.
When I was 17, I developed these strange tics and rituals I had to complete in order to go to bed, leave the house, or go on holiday.
BEAUTY
Deforestation has been a hot topic this week, with leaders at COP26 announcing they would be taking major steps to halt the process in the next decade. But what exactly is deforestation, and why should we care about the loss of our trees and forests across the world?
If you're a big nail art fan, you may have been wondering if SPF for a gel mani is a necessity. I spoke to the experts to find out.
Does retinol have the potential to work its magic in haircare? The changing landscape of beauty and the expansion of retinol across it seems to suggest so. We spoke with several experts about the benefits, risks, and formulations to try.
With festive season right around the corner, many of us will be knocking back more drinks than usual right now. But the very real effects of skin hangover may make you take pause and think about drinking a little more responsibly in the coming months, both for your complexion, and of course for your overall wellbeing.
Perhaps the most commonly referenced perk of being a beauty editor is that we get to try many exclusive, lusted after products. In particular, I go wild for getting my hands on skincare newness. I'm not alone. The allure of trying the latest formula or buzzy ingredient is widespread, as is the 'more is more' approach to skincare.
Here's our guide to the best skincare routine everyone from adult acne suffers to oily/dry skin plus recommended products
Since the coronavirus outbreak, we've been made more aware than ever that touching our faces should be avoided at all costs. But for some of us, breaking the habit of a lifetime can be incredibly tough, especially when we have few distractions.
When it comes to skincare trends, it's usually a 'dime a dozen' sort of situation, with new ones cropping up every single week. But some have been quietly brewing for some time, and when they arrive, they tend to stick around for good.
A good moisturiser is a skincare staple. Second only to thoroughly cleaning the skin with a great cleanser, a moisturising cream is the most important step in your routine to ensure you're flooding the skin with hydration and vital antioxidants.
Wondering if it's worth investing your cash in a Dyson Airwrap if you have shorter hair? Here's what you need to know, says Rebecca Fearn
Netflix's The Queen's Gambit undeniably had an impact on our wardrobes. Trending checked pieces such as Damson Madder's green and white co-ord flew off the virtual shelves, and Insta-favourite brands like Kitri and Free People followed suit shortly afterwards with their covetable designs.
Platinum blonde is one of the most high maintenance hair colours. It can be tough to keep your colour bright, icy, and cool-toned, and bleach can have a major impact on the condition of hair. For this reason, there are plenty of hair products for platinum blondes around, many of which will restore your vibrant mane to its former glory.
I've always been conscious of my side profile, in particular the size of my nose. In my family we have a running joke about my dad's nose being his most 'prominent' feature (always said with love, of course). The unspoken truth is that I definitely got his nose over my mum's.
The best creamy, hydrating lipsticks that go on smoothly and won't crack or flake off. From Charlotte Tilbury, Glossier and Fenty Beauty.
With the arrival of 2021 and a new lockdown, many of us are re-focusing our efforts on our overall health and wellbeing, be it nutrition and exercise, or mental wellness and self-care. One way you might be looking to support this is through supplements.
In Bustle's Beauty Detail, we dive into the beauty bags of our favourite talents for intel on the rituals that keep them glowing and the MVPs (most valuable products) they can't live without. Here, model and influencer Jess Hunt shares the process behind creating her viral Instagram brow brand Refy, and the makeup, skincare, and body bits she always turns to.
While 2019 saw a whole host of treatments, experiences and approaches arrive in London, the new decade brings with it an influx of even fresher wellness trends. This year, we're set to encounter therapies and events that delve even deeper into self-worth, as well as those that focus on returning to nature and concentrate on previously overlooked areas of the body and transitions in our lives.
In Bustle's Beauty Detail, we dive into the beauty bags of our favourite talents for intel on the rituals that keep them glowing and the MVPs (most valuable products) they can't live without. Here, Maya Jama tells Bustle about her earliest skin care memories and launching her own beauty brand, MIJ Masks.
is a monthly column that looks at the obscure beauty routines and sacred acts of self self-care different professionals practice as they prepare for a typical event. Christina Maciejewski, Soraya Mojdehi, and Gaia Maralla, all 17, train seven hours a week alongside attending school, and take part in competitions for the Seymour Synchronised Swimming Club in London.
The 2019th year of our lord is the year of the dermatologist skincare brand. While doctors who specialise in your complexion have been formulating their own potent concoctions for years, now marks the start of turbo-charged products that bend and blur the clinic/ home line in ever wavier ways.
Antidepressants treat all sorts of illnesses, and can be beneficial for people with mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, OCD, and bipolar disorder. And while for most, the potential side effects are outweighed by the opportunity to feel better within ourselves, these types of medication can in some cases affect our skin and bodies in unexpected ways.
How does Jessica Matlin, Beauty Editor and co-founder of Fat Mascara podcast, wind down on a Sunday night? With the help of candles, her must-have Kiehl's cream and her pet cat Janetta, of course... I always start winding down at around 9 or 10pm which I know is way too late, but I always feel desperate to extend the weekend.
As its name suggests, this form of acne appears due to an imbalance of hormones and usually manifests itself through under-the-skin bumps that are often painful to the touch. They're particularly frustrating as everything sits under the surface as opposed to coming to a head like usual spots or blackheads, and they can also linger for several days or even weeks, making them tougher to budge than your average blemish.
Japanese beauty, or J-beauty as it's known among makeup and skincare obsessives, has quietly risen in popularity over the past years, especially in the Western world. Beloved for its quality ingredients, unique textures and Instagram-worthy packaging, not to mention its highly curated approach to skincare routines, Japanese beauty - much like Japan itself - is rooted in tradition.
For me, finding the perfect foundation has always been the ultimate beauty dream. Having skin like Rosie Huntington-Whiteley's is an understandable goal, but one that has had me on a constant hunt throughout my career-and even before it began. I've worked in beauty for nearly five years now, and I'll be honest: I've tried a lot of foundations.
If I had a pound for every time I explained the concept of "combination hair" (oily roots and dry ends) to someone and they replied "I HAVE THAT," I'd be very rich. It's something so many of us deal with, and yet unlike with our skin types, we never really address the issue.
Top picks from inside our handbags. By Rebecca Fearn. Inspired by Into The Gloss' foray into its own staff's daily makeup bags, we asked Marie Claire digital staffers to bring in their everyday makeup bags (the ones they carry with them in their handbags) to take a peek inside.
I've always been obsessed with makeup, ever since I was at school, and I definitely grew up in an age where more was more. From Maybelline Dream Matte Mousse Foundation to concealer nude lips, my generation wasn't exactly about understated beauty....
FASHION & JEWELLERY
The past few weeks have been devastating for the people of Afghanistan, particularly women, who are having to come to terms with the fact that their freedoms and way of life is under threat. Their basic rights to work and access to education will likely be impacted, as will their safety in general.
Welded bracelets are all over TikTok at the moment, after being introduced by a small store in New York. But what about those of us wanting to hop on the trend from the other side of the pond. Short of buying a soldering iron and DIYing it, how can you get your hands on welded bracelets in the UK?
Hair clips have had a bold resurgence over the past few years. No longer just accessories for the very young, they can add a chic final touch to anyone's look, regardless of their age or style.
As jewellery trends go, ' happy jewellery ' is perhaps the one we need most in 2021. As social plans begin to take place again and we begin to enjoy some semblance of freedom, it's time to stack your arm parties, layer up those necklaces, and invest in a cute anklet that will go with everything to show off.
Yes it's engagement season, but do we really need an excuse to gift (or self gift) diamonds? Ashley Graham - model, industry game-changer and the face of Pandora's brand new, lab-created diamond collection - would argue not at all! "The range is affordable and accessible for everyone," she tells Bustle.
If you're as fascinated by jewellery as we are, you'll always be on the hunt for the next coolest brand to buy from. There are so many amazing mid-range jewellery brands out there today, with a plethora of choice no matter what your style.
Meghan Markle is known to love a meaningful piece of jewellery. Since the start of her relationship with Prince Harry, she's worn her heart on her sleeve (or more accurately, around her neck) in the form of sentimental 'H' necklaces, pendants, and charms - a tradition she continued when Archie was born.
A pair of good hoops never goes out of style. And while you can get plenty of decorated pairs complete with charms, etchings, and detailing on them these days, you just can't beat a classic gold hoop - and 2021 is all about going chunky.
This is the kind of joy-inducing sparkle we all need RN. July Child Jewellery Over the past year or so, I've really gotten into watching how jewellery trends change. And one style that has continued to grow in popularity is the humble smiley face.
During Kamala Harris' historic swearing in ceremony, the Vice President wore a beautiful pearl necklace, designed by Puerto Rican jeweller Wilfredo Rosado. Her choice of inauguration jewellery will have come as no surprise to those who have followed the politician's style choices over the years; the pearl necklace is considered one of her signatures.
We're in the depths of our third UK lockdown and it's still winter. So if you have a bit of spare cash, treating yourself to something that'll brighten your day can't be a bad idea. While investing in new jewellery with nowhere to wear it might seem counterintuitive, it's a surefire way to brighten up your cosy at-home attire.
For years buying jewellery has been a choice between a high-street impulse purchase that would stay together for six months, or a big investment piece to stand the test of time. But now there's a generation of high quality, 'demi-fine' jewellery filling the space between luxury and affordability, and making our collections bigger - and more beautiful - than ever.
Anklets are pretty, delicate, and have a tinge of nostalgia to them, but I have to admit I've never seen them as a particularly ~sophisticated~ piece of jewellery. That is, until now. With every chic jewellery brand under the sun launching an anklet or two, it looks like this is a style that can absolutely be refreshed and modernised.
Jewellery brand Pandora has released their 2019/2020 sustainability report, in which they list the ways they plan to take care of their people and their planet in the coming years. As well as promising to take steps to reduce carbon emissions and...
Jewellery trends come and go, but one that has taken centre stage for the past couple of years is the "curated ear." Multiple piercings worn with different types of earrings are cooler than ever, and it's a look that's accessible to everyone, no...
I'll be honest; when I first saw that padlock necklaces were starting to become cool again, I got a little nervous. Padlocks for me are associated with my teenage years, meaning they have a distinct juvenile vibe to them. Feel the same? Well, it's...
Options for each and every star sign, no matter your budget. Orelia Christmas is coming and while there are plenty of beauty, foodie, and lifestyle gifts to make the most of, my wish list is going to be packed full of beautiful jewellery I would otherwise not be able to buy for myself.
When shopping for dresses, you may find some styles just don't feel right - and being comfortable is just as important as looking good. Luckily, milkmaid dresses are trending his season and it is a style that seems to suit everybody, making it pretty much universally flattering.
The past few months have seen the return of some level of normalcy, bringing with it nerves, excitement, and the promise of adventures outside of the house. But one thing I've certainly not been thrilled about is having to get out of my comfy loungewear, which often includes zero bra wearing.
With a third lockdown well underway and the only real exercise or social interaction we can get being outside, wrapping up warm is more important than ever right now. If you're off for a long walk in the park with a friend, you'll want to make sure you're feeling cosy and comfortable, while still looking chic.
Loungewear has become our 2020 uniform, and given the current second lockdown, that doesn't seem set to change any time soon. This time last year, many of us would never have imagined that knitted co-ords, joggers and hoodies, and stretchy jersey jumpsuits would become our unofficial office-wear.
Attending the wedding of a loved one calls for a well put-together outfit to make you feel confident and look your best. As well as finding the right dress, jumpsuit, or two-piece, you'll want to consider your accessories.
Wearing a face covering has become a normal part of modern life. In fact, in many places - such as inside shops and on public transport - face masks are now mandatory. While the purpose of this is for safety rather than vanity, who says masks can't be stylish and protective?
NEWS/ENTS/OTHER
First off, it goes without saying that the banning of abortion in America (one of the Western world's so-called most democratic, liberal countries) should be alarming to all women everywhere. It should be seen as an attack on us all as a collective, and one we need to talk about, fight against, and feel angry about.
An image of a Black foetus in the womb by medical student and illustrator Chidiebere Ibe is being praised for sparking much-needed conversations about racial diversity within medicine and beyond. The illustration - which shows a Black foetus in the womb - has gone viral on social media, with many pointing out this is shockingly the first time they have ever seen an image like this.
Following the 95% mortgage scheme, announced in March 2021, a brand new initiative has been set up to try and make it easier for people to get on the property ladder. The First Homes scheme was announced by Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick this week.
Typically a symptom of Borderline Personality Disorder, 'splitting' is when a person is unable to hold opposing thoughts or feelings; quite literally seeing everything in black and white. But though it's commonly associated with BPD, splitting can be seen in other individuals to a lesser extent.
Deforestation has been a hot topic this week, with leaders at COP26 announcing they would be taking major steps to halt the process in the next decade. But what exactly is deforestation, and why should we care about the loss of our trees and forests across the world?
New data has found a correlation between the return of Love Island and searches for cosmetic procedures including lip fillers. Cosmetic Surgery Solicitors analysed Google Trends search data and found that there is a link between the two which is particularly noticeable when the TV show is airing.
Tarot cards have become increasingly popular, especially user-friendly decks you can use from home. There's a vast range of decks available online, and finding the one that speaks to you is important. So, we wanted to help on your journey by picking out seven of the best tarot card decks around currently.
In Bustle' s Quick Question, we ask women leaders all about advice - from the best guidance they' ve ever gotten to what they're still figuring out. Here, author and podcaster Elizabeth Day shares her thoughts on failure and the proactive ways in which women can support other women.
On March 3, Rishi Sunak announced his new Budget for 2021. Many were focused on how the Chancellor of the Exchequer was going to help those looking to purchase property in the coming year, particularly first time buyers.
In Bustle' s Quick Question, we ask women leaders all about advice - from the best guidance they' ve ever gotten to what they're still figuring out. Here, tech entrepreneur Tabitha Goldstaub talks about finding your tribe of women to work alongside, how she's still figuring out that work-life balance with a new son, and what her original unlikely career aspiration was...
After a year where dating has mostly taken place online, you'd be forgiven for feeling a bit fed up with dating apps. So if you're burned out by Bumble, at the end of your tether with Tinder, and having a hellish time on Hinge, you may be interested to know that a brand new dating app is about to enter the scene - and its fresh outlook on dating may just shake up your own mindset and motivation.
In Bustle' s Quick Question, we ask women leaders all about advice - from the best guidance they' ve ever gotten to what they're still figuring out. Here, Facebook VP EMEA Nicola Mendelsohn CBE shares her thoughts on valuing your time, ripping up the ageist rule book, and breaking through tech's glass ceiling.
Ever since it became apparent that people from Black, Asian, & Minority Ethnic (BAME) communities were being hit harder by COVID-19, we've been waiting for the government's report on why this is, and what will be done about it. The 'Disparities In...
With Boris Johnson in intensive care with coronavirus, the country is currently in the hands of Dominic Raab, the Foreign Secretary and First Secretary Of State. Many of us are not as familiar with the MP as the Prime Minister, so I've outlined a...
New Zealand has always been right at the top of my bucket list. So when I was given the opportunity to visit the North Island with Tourism New Zealand, I jumped at the chance (quite literally). Here's my run-down of the best things to do, food to eat and places to stay...
You may have noticed that there's lots in the news lately about the political issue of devolution. But what is devolution, and why is everyone talking about it right now? Here's everything you need to know. Devolution is the name given to the way that certain powers have been given to elected groups across the UK, in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Season 7 of The Walking Dead has been, without a doubt, exhilarating. With the introduction of Jeffrey Dean Morgan as the evil, eternally-feared Negan (and his baseball bat friend Lucille), Rick and the other survivors have been tested more than ever.
On June 14, 2017, a fire broke out in a 24-storey residential tower block in North Kensington in London, claiming the lives of 72 people (according to official reports) and leaving survivors and families of the deceased distraught, confused, and searching for answers.
BRANDED WORK
It's official: the autumn/winter season has arrived, and with it comes a flurry of pumpkin spice lattes, cosy nights in, and crisp leaves on the ground. But one thing that may be suffering a little more than usual is our skin; this time of year can be notoriously hard on the body's largest organ, both in terms of keeping it soft, supple, and protected, and giving it a healthy glow.
Skincare: it's the ultimate makeup base. Without an effective skincare routine that ensures skin is feeling and looking its best, makeup sort of doesn't stand a chance. Learn why having a solid skincare base is crucial for seamless make up application, creating a glowing complexion for no makeup days and helping your make up last longer!
Marie Claire is supported by its audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy. If you often feel out of balance, you're not alone.
A staggering amount of women suffer from oily skin - 35% of adults have oily or combination skin, while 70% of over 25-year-olds experience an unbalanced complexion at some point during their life. And when you're dealing with unwanted blemishes, serious shine and clogged pores, it's easy to assume that highly potent, chemical formulas are your best bet.
There's something so special about fragrance and its ability to bring back memories and transport us to places we've never been before. This idea is something the new Ghost fragrance, 'Dream' fully inhabits and embraces. With its connection to dreams, crystals and alternate worlds, the brand's new perfume is special not just because of its irresistible aroma, but due to the magical concept behind it.
VIDEO WORK
eliza shared a post on Instagram: "Big beauty news: industry icon @salihughes has launched an affordable skincare line with @makeuprevolution. Here, beauty editor @beautyandtheb runs through the top 3 things you need to know and which product you should snap up before it sells out 👀 Shop the line (all for under £15) via the 🔗 in our profile".