From Ideal Gardening Tools to Eight Pounds of Mascara: My Top Picks of the Month | Life and Style

the arrival of spring always accelerates the rhythm of life, especially with the hustle of tidying up the sprawling house and garden. I’ve been fortunate enough to enjoy the delightful early sunshine this season.

Throughout winter, I kept my gaze primarily indoors. Most plants that I bought with hope last summer seemed doubtful of survival. Thus, it’s heartening to see the garden springing back to life. Many of you share this sentiment; the response to our article on getting your garden summer-ready and organizing for spring has been overwhelmingly positive.

It’s also the ideal moment to clear away the cobwebs from your summer wardrobe and rejuvenate it with fresh pieces, be it a “chic spring sweater,” stylish barrel-leg trousers, or an £8 mascara. (If you’re interested in shopping sustainably, check out our recent guide on vintage clothing.)

Bargain Mascara

L’Oréal Paradise Big Deal Volume Mascara

_{£8 on Amazon}

Savin Wiesel, a former beauty editor with a mascara obsession, is on a quest for the best product. After retesting 25 favorites and five new releases, she curated an impressive selection. “Even those who prefer a low-maintenance approach tend to own mascara,” she notes. Sabine’s top pick is a best-seller that she swears transforms lashes with just one swipe.

Best Budget Secateurs

Spear & Jackson Razorsharp Advantage Bypass Secateurs

_{£9.95 on Amazon}

“Secateurs are among the most essential tools in gardening, as vital as a well-crafted trowel,” notes Matt Collins, head gardener at the Garden Museum in London, emphasizing their importance in spring. “It’s time to trim perennials and grasses to promote new growth.” He describes these Spear & Jackson secateurs as “simple yet durable tools that excel in functionality.”

Niwaki Hori Hori Knife

_{£32.95 at Sarah Raven}

When asked about their preferred tools, professional gardeners consistently mention the Hori Hori. It’s noted as a favorite among experts for summer preparations. “It’s multifunctional, ideal for digging, cutting, weeding, and planting,” says Lulu Roper-Caldbeck.

Spring Sweater

Borden Enid Embroidered Jumper

_{£112 at John Lewis}

“I adore chic sweaters,” states Jess Kurtner Morley in April’s Style Essentials. “Finding a stylish jumper can be a challenge,” she remarks, highlighting its versatility for cool evenings. “I pair this with a black camisole for a layered look.”

Five-Star Rated Coconut Milk

Biona Organic Coconut Milk

_{£11.95 for 6 x 400ml on Amazon}

“I prefer high-quality coconut milk; there’s a noticeable difference between products loaded with sweeteners and stabilizers,” remarks Ravinder Bhogal in a tasting of coconut milk.

Barrel Leg Trousers

Jersey Trousers

_{£34.90 at Uniqlo}

Initially highlighted by Jess Cartner Morley as a cost-effective way to achieve a high-end look, these Uniqlo Barrel Leg trousers have earned popularity as one of our top choices in the Women’s Spring Wardrobe Essentials guide. Their wearability is certainly a selling point.

Ultra-Portable Power Bank

Anker Nano

_{£29.99 at Anker}

“Compact, efficient, and easily fits in your pocket,” praises reviewer Pete Wise about this 102g power bank. “No other power banks match its combination of charging prowess and portability,” he adds. With a 5,000mAh capacity, it provides ample energy for most smartphones.

The Best Sunscreen

Altruistic Sunscreen SPF50

_{£27.95 for 1 liter on Amazon}

“Using sunscreen is essential; otherwise, anti-aging products are futile,” states Sari Hughes, an expert on age-defying skincare. This dermatologist-recommended formula might seem pricey, but it is an excellent investment in high-quality sun protection.

‘Glass Hair’ Conditioning Gloss

Glaze Clear Conditioning Gloss

_{£15.99 on Amazon}

Hayley Spencer consulted experts on achievable, DIY-friendly beauty treatments. “Glass hair” can be easily attained at home. “The shine and freshness of salon-treated hair are undeniably appealing,” she mentions. This clear conditioning gloss, which can be applied to dry hair, takes only 10 minutes to work its magic.

Best Budget Walking Pad

Rattantree Shock Absorbent Treadmill

_{£142.49 at Debenhams}

While there’s no substitute for walking outdoors, under-desk treadmills are on the rise for boosting daily steps while at work. The Rattantree model provides solid value at £142.49, as noted by Fitness Fanatic Leon Poultney. “It may lack the frills of pricier models, but it’s lightweight and covers the basics for anyone looking to increase their step count.”

Pollock-Style Bud Vase

Rainbow Vase

_{Starting at £12.50 on Etsy}

A popular choice among readers, this vibrant vase adds a splash of color to any space, designed to hold a single flower stem. It’s a simple and affordable way to brighten your home. Fashion writer Ellie Violet Brumley notes that it pushes the boundaries of traditional splatter patterns.