SWEET NOTHINGS
In such a saturated market, it is rare for a new beauty range to create the kind of buzz that could compete with, say, a new electric toothbrush. So when one comes along that the whole office is trying to catch a glimpse of, it has to be something out of the ordinary.
The Ladurée beauty collection, created by the famous French patisserie, is certainly novel. But what is a brand famed for its deliciously sweet and irresistibly pretty pastel-hued macaroons doing launching a skincare range? Sure, the almond-scented collection has that French whimsical thing down pat, thanks to its delicate, boudoir-friendly packaging, but the comedy macaroon-shaped lids are a step too far, and if I smelt the products blindfolded, I would be tempted to take a bite. It all goes to prove that there is no end to the hordes who believe they are capable of turning their hands to beauty.
Unlike in the 1990s, when a glut of make-up artists' own-brand ranges exploded onto cosmetics counters, or more recently, when dermatologist-created skincare came to the fore, now even those with no beauty expertise whatsoever are willing to have a go. Just think of the countless celebrities with their own fragrances. But unless you particularly want to smell like marzipan, this latest range begs the question, where will it end? Patisserie Valerie croissant-flavoured bubble bath? Mr Kipling moisturiser?
From £14 for the almond perfumed soap, from Harrods, available at the end of February
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LUST OF THE WEEK
A woody floral with a scent so rich and varied that it almost fizzes, Jil Sander Stylessence is a sumptuous fragrance that instantly renders its wearer more womanly. The cubic egg-timer-shaped bottle gives it a modern edge that is sure to appeal to minimalists, too. £28 for 30ml
TRY 3: BATH TABLETS
Spruce up your tub with an effervescent bath tablet. In handy individual doses, they are also ideal to sling in your wash bag for weekends away.
Little rectangles that produce rose-tinted water and a seductive scent. Decléor Arôme Euphoric Bath Pebbles, £12.50 for four; 020 7313 8780
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A gentle, skin-softening treat with a sweet scent. L'Occitane Cherry Blossom Caressing Bath Pebbles, £18 for eight (available from Friday)
Pretty pink tablets that create a wonderfully robust, floral fragrance. Space NK Enrapture Bath Tablets, £12.50 for eight