All The Lifestyle, Wellbeing & Experience Picks R29 Loved In June
18 Mins Read
At least once a week — let’s face it, at least once every day — the writers and editors across Refinery29 discuss the latest and greatest products in our lives, from some cool new water bottle that’s been absolutely saving our lives to a state-of-the-art sleep product that’s changed our eight hours for the better. And gatekeeping isn’t in our vocabulary, so we’re here to share the wealth and highlight our favourite products, just for you, each month.
All linked products are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase any of these products, we may earn a commission.
Susan Devaney, Life Director
Photo: Courtesy of Susan Devaney.
Can you ever own too much leopard print? No, no you can’t. But I’ll be the first to admit that my leopard print obsession has reached peak in recent months (hello, leopard print oven gloves). So naturally, I’ve added to it again in the form of a Damson Madder laptop case. My last one was so bulky, so corporate, so grey — but this is lightweight and cool. Let’s go girls.
Damson Madder Bow Laptop Bag, $, available at Damson Madder
Nothing quite says summer has finally arrived than the opening of an aperitivo/hamper set, right? This limited edition offering from Della Vite & Glassette is so delightful. Inside the woven basket (I’ll be using this for many summers to come), you’ll find a pair of dainty coupes for pouring your Della Vite Prosecco into it. Wait, there’s more: Pickle chips, Bonilla crisps and Toreras olives along with a bottle stopper and cooling jacket. Poppy Delevingne, co-founder of Della Vite and Laura Jackson, co-founder of Glassette, have firmly put their chic stamp on their product choices. They make you feel like you’re on the Italian coast for a hot minute.
Della Vite Della Vite x Glassette Aperitivo Set, $, available at Della Vite
I don’t have a face for glasses. Some people look so great in a pair, so effortless, so cool — I’m not one of them. So, I decided to branch out and try somewhere new in the hope my luck might change. The staff at Jimmy Fairly (a Parisian brand that’s been in the UK since 2018) made the whole process of picking new glasses so smooth. From booking an appointment to getting an eye test (not always the most enjoyable experience) to musing ALL pairs in the store, they were patient about it all. With so many unisex frames to opt for, I finally picked The Cloud. Comfortable and understated, I genuinely like wearing them which is a first for me. When my next eye test is due in two years’ time, I know where I’ll be going again.
Jimmy Fairly The Cloud, $, available at Jimmy Fairly
Later this year I’ll be taking a much needed trip away to Canada. Hitting up Alberta, I’ll be exploring Jasper and Baff National Parks. I’ve heard glorious things so my expectations are already too high. My current hiking boots have seen better days, so this pair from Danner is an investment that will last a long time. Made from leather and fully waterproof and breathable, there’s a reason this brand is known for quality. I always wear black, so I decided to switch it up with the tan shade and red laces. They also offer a recraftable service so your boots really go the full mile. Now, I just need to keep breaking them in before I touch down on Canadian soil.
Danner Mountain Light, $, available at Danner
Tanyel Mustafa, Senior Writer
Photo: Courtesy of Tanyel Mustafa.
Good Squish’s scrunchies have always been cute, but now the sports version gives them a practical edge, given the new added adjustable elastic. I’ve worn mine while going for group runs when I know we’ll be stopping for coffee after. It adds a touch of fun to my hair and helps me feel more “put together” post-run, while reliably staying in place through rain, sweat and winds. London weather, eh?
Good Squish Baby Grandmama Sports Squish, $, available at Good Squish
Wand vibrators are great for clitoral orgasms. So many of the large ones on the market need to be plugged into the wall (the con of having more power), so considering this one runs without, it can get up to a pretty intense vibration setting. It’s also waterproof (another upgrade on wall-plus options). The handle makes self-pleasure super easy and comfortable, too.
Satisfyer Wand-erland, $, available at Satisfyer
I recently went hiking in the beautiful Wye Valley, which boarders London and Wales. I tried out the new AllTrails app features, available with their newest membership tier. It make the walks I did easy and stress-free (as someone that always gets lost). I downloaded the maps so they’d work offline, and off I went into wooded areas. The app also helpfully shows you how busy the route you’re taking is, so that if you’re a beginner (like me) you can stick to the road most heavily taken. If you’re experienced and want a quieter path, you can tailor that, too. The app will soon be able to detect plant and insect species when you hold your camera up to them. No matter how experienced a hiker you are, there’s something on the app for everyone. It also helpfully tells you where the nearest pub is! London is going through a heatwave, so it was time to upgrade my fan game from the tiny noisy desk one I’ve had since uni to a bladeless smarter option. This fan keeps noise to a minimum, has lots of options to toggle between for the right hit of cool air, and most importantly, it really cuts through the heat in my top floor room.
Midea Smart Air by Midea White Bladeless Tower Fan, $, available at Argos
Alicia Lansom, Culture Editor
Photo: Courtesy of Alicia Lansom.
I’ve been thinking more and more recently about household cleaning products and the chemicals and plastics we bring into our homes. While I have been somewhat addicted to my Dishmatic, I decided to try out these scourer sponges from Seep as a plastic-free alternative. While I do miss having a handy handle, knowing that what I’m washing the plates I eat off with is 100% natural (the scrubby side is made from loofah and the other is wood pulp cellulose) makes it all worth it. They also don’t fall apart after a couple of weeks, which is a major plus point, and they’re even compostable.
The Seep Company Eco Sponge Scourers, $, available at The Seep Company
If you’re searching for a laugh-out-loud comedy with politically pertinent themes, look no further than The Ministry of Lesbian Affairs. Now playing at the Kiln Theatre, the musical written by Iman Qureshi tells the story of the only lesbian choir in the country as they tackle falling member numbers, a crumbling rehearsal space, romances, family tensions and a very important performance at Pride. Packed with funny one-liners and cultural references, plus an abundance of joy-filled performances (Shuna Snow as choir leader Connie is a lesson in physical comedy), you could mistakenly think that The Ministry of Lesbian Affairs is nothing more than a laugh. But the second act truly drives home the importance of the production, discussing the current rise of transphobia in a sensitive and affecting way.
As someone dealing with chronic inflammation, I’m increasingly looking for new ways to help myself feel better, whether that be through supplements, acupuncture or now, lymphatic drainage. I went to see Dimple Amani to learn how ‘draining’ lymph fluids work. Drawing from Ayurvedic practices (an ancient Indian medicine system focused on holistic healing), the one-hour full body massage treatment aims to move lymph fluid from your tissues towards your lymph nodes (which help your body filter out waste), in turn helping to ease swelling and inflammation. Made from turmeric, ashwagandha and sesame, a warm oil is poured on the body and worked in with light pressure to stimulate drainage.
Starting with the feet, backs of the knees and working upwards, things then move to the groin area (a key area housing lymph nodes). Then it’s up to the abdomen, with lots of oil poured on the belly and worked in with more pressure to help bloating, breaking down tension and aiding in digestion. Then things move up to the top of the body, working the armpits, chest and neck area. In less sensitive areas, a wooden body tool is used to help push fluid, boost blood circulation and help with water retention. While it may feel like a stronger massage than a traditional ‘relaxation’ treatment, the session is incredibly thorough, with each area feeling truly taken care of. Leaving feeling lighter (and with super moisturised limbs), lymphatic drainage is something I will look at continuing to perform on myself at home (although a massage room is much nicer if you can treat yourself).
Full Body Lymphatic Drainage Massage, Dimple Amani, £160, book here.
As someone with acne, the only experience I’ve had with red light is the celebrity-loved masks used at the end of facials to help the skin rejuvenate and promote cell turnover. However, after a friend spoke about the benefits of a full-body panel on chronic pain, I did some digging and found a study from the National Institute of Health Research that shows that red and near-infrared light can be used to reduce inflammation all over the body. I wanted to put this to the test with this device from Bon Charge (which provides 660nm red light and 850nm near-infrared light). With an inbuilt timer of up to 20 minutes, advice online said to start out with 10-20 minutes a day for at least four days a week. Turning it on, I couldn’t get over how much the device floods the room with light and as someone with light-sensitive eyes I made sure to have the optional eye goggles firmly fixed on my face. Starting off with ten-minute sessions, I found that it demanded I tune into my body and allowed me a dedicated time to stretch my neck and upper body and feel out my aches and pains. Now, weeks in, I find it an enjoyable part of my evening routine, with meditation apps like Calm stating that red light therapy can also be great for inducing sleep by supporting your body’s natural production of melatonin. As someone with chronic inflammation, I was never going to be ‘fixed’ overnight, but now switching between my front and back for 20 minutes feels like it is helping my muscles relax and put me in a better mood before bedtime. Plus, for those dealing with the rainy British weather, it feels like the warm glow of the sun, but in this case, good for your skin. I’ll be continuing my treatment long into winter for sure.
What do the experts say? “Red light therapy has been shown to help reduce inflammation by stimulating cellular energy production (ATP) and improving blood flow. It works by penetrating the skin with low-level wavelengths of red and near-infrared light, which can calm inflammatory pathways and support tissue repair. It’s particularly useful for skin conditions, joint inflammation, and post-exercise recovery. Full-body red light panels can be a convenient and effective option for systemic inflammation, especially for those dealing with autoimmune conditions or widespread pain. Regular sessions may support reduced stiffness, improved energy, and better recovery. Red and near-infrared light can penetrate deep into tissue, making it helpful for managing pain from chronic conditions like arthritis, fibromyalgia, or nerve-related pain. It doesn’t just mask the pain, it promotes healing at a cellular level, which can lead to longer-term relief with continued use. Look for a panel that emits both red (around 660nm) and near-infrared (around 850nm) wavelengths. This combination targets both surface and deeper tissues. Aim for sessions of 10–20 minutes per area, around 3–5 times a week for best results. As with anything, in-clinic treatments will always give a better and more powerful result.” — Dr Rishi Mandavia, doctor and medical director at Drs Tatiana + Rishi Advanced Aesthetics tells Refinery29.
Bon Charge Demi Red Light Therapy Device, $, available at Bon Charge
Raquel Reichard, Somos Deputy Director
Photo: Courtesy of Raquel Reichard.
For too long, bedtime meant choosing between a sexy negligee or a worn-out tee from an ex that should’ve been tossed out ages ago. But I’ve finally started investing in pajamas that feel good and look good. This week, I’ve been wearing the Eberjey x Casa Del Sol Inez Washable Silk Printed Short PJ Set, and I’m mad I waited this long to take sleepwear seriously. The limited-edition navy blue-and-white design draws inspiration from the designers’ Latine roots and fits perfectly with my home’s aesthetic. Even better, the comfort! Made from 100% mulberry silk, the fabric is created through bluesign-certified processes and certified by OEKO-TEX Standard 100, meaning it’s incredibly soft, free from harmful chemicals, and made in a mill that prioritises safety and non-toxic practices.
Eberjey Inez Washable Silk Printed Short PJ Set, $, available at Eberjey
Kristine Romano, Art Director
Photo: Courtesy of Kristine Romano.
I practically live in my seamless Sloggi bras so I knew their high-waist knickers wouldn’t disappoint either. The main thing I look for in seamless underwear is that they maintain their shape, and these have held up beautifully after several washes. They’re soft, sleek and incredibly comfortable, with a barely-there feel that really lives up to the “Zero Feel” name. They also don’t roll down — a common issue I’ve had with other brands.
sloggi Zero Feel High Waist Knickers, $, available at sloggi
I recently reviewed the Simba Hybrid 3-in-1 Duvet (which I loved) and thought it only right to try one of their pillows too. I’ve been dealing with some neck tension and have struggled to find a pillow that feels comfortable and sits at the right height. The Simba Hybrid Pillow has been amazing! I love that I can customise the height and firmness by adding or removing the Nanocubes that make up the filling. At the moment, I have the cover about two-thirds full and I’m sleeping more comfortably than I have in a long time. The pillow has stayed firm, and I’ve really noticed how flat or lumpy other pillows are whenever I’ve been away from home.
Simba Hybrid Pillow, $, available at Simba
Gone are the days of squeezing myself into uncomfortable swimwear! Ever since crinkle swimwear came onto the market, I’ve been converted and this one piece from bond-eye holds up in both quality and style. I love how it adapts to my body! It’s stretchy, supportive, and genuinely comfortable to wear all day. I went for the butter yellow (which has quickly become a neutral in my wardrobe) but was a bit worried it might be see-through. Thankfully, the clever two-tone design ensures it isn’t. The outer layer is yellow, and the black lining underneath shows through just enough as the fabric stretches. Stylish and practical — this one’s a winner.
Bond-Eye Mara One Piece, $, available at Bond-Eye
Esther Newman, Affiliate Writer
Photo: Courtesy of Esther Newman.
I’m usually dubious about these ‘healthy’ sparkling water drinks — try as they may, but they often taste like TV static to me. Not these ones. These are heavenly; a real refreshing and revitalising burst of juicy tastiness. Ideal for picking me up mid-afternoon slump without needing to rely on anxiety-inducing caffeine.
Punchy Mexican Lime, $, available at Punchy
Phone straps are my best friends come festival and concert season. After having several cheap iterations break on me, though, I knew it was time to invest in something more substantial and sturdy. This Casetify lanyard certainly fits the bill with its thick, double-stitched and reinforced polyester material and aluminium carabiner. I love that I can attach other concert essentials like my Loops earbud case for easy access, too.
Casetify Ultra Bounce Utility Lanyard, $, available at Casetify
I admit I’m late to the matcha craze, but now, I’m no less obsessed with the green stuff. Thanks to this sleek and easy-to-use electronic whisk machine, I can now enjoy my own silky smooth drinks at home — I especially love that it can be used for iced matcha lattes. A must during the summer heat!
Refinery29’s Tanyel is also a big fan of this product, regularly making matcha at home instead of buying them out for over a £4 each time — saving money in the process. The best part is how simple it now is to make matcha lattes. It’s takes hardly any time to whip it up, and is easy to clean after.
Bird & Blend Tea Co Matcha Latte Magic Whisk, $, available at Bird & Blend Tea Co
Venus Wong, Senior Writer
Photo: Courtesy of Venus Wong.
I love using a luxurious hand wash in the kitchen; it helps neutralise some of the food aromas left on my fingers after cooking, and helps put me in a better mood for the dreaded cleaning up part. This Grown Alchemist hand wash has been a go-to for me this summer; it contains pumice, which gently removes dead skin, while aloe vera soothes and hydrates. The orange and vanilla scent is so uplifting. I look forward to using it every time I wash my hands!
Grown Alchemist Exfoliating Hand Wash, $, available at Grown Alchemist
Now that warmer weather is here, I’ve switched my home fragrance lineup to something more subtle and refreshing. I’ve been loving the delicate and silky aroma of osmanthus flower as a perfume trend, and am super delighted to see it as an anchoring note of this candle. The medley of osmanthus, cedarwood, fig, and mandarin smells so invigorating and luxurious. The ceramic container is also beautiful to look at. I save this for my summer dinner parties when my special guests are visiting.
Commune Osmanthus Lux Candle, $, available at Commune
Jessica Aureli, US Money Diaries Editor
Photo: Courtesy of Jessica Aureli.
I think probably the most important hiking advice I’ve ever received was that if you can keep blisters at bay, that’s three-quarters of the battle — and based on the (really quite bad) experiences of some of my friends during a 26-mile stint in the Brecon Beacons recently, god, ain’t it the truth. My two-pronged approach comprised of a militant approach to prevention (the second I felt absolutely anything rubbing below the ankles, I immediately whacked on some tape or a Compeed) and also these Stox socks. Prior to trying these I was pretty cavalier about sock choice — surely a sock is a sock is a sock, right? Wrong: these ones meant I finished the trek with my feet in basically pristine condition — they feel comfortingly tight when they’re on (the targeted compression helps with ankle stability) and they help stop blisters in their tracks by wicking moisture away.
Stox Dryarn Hiking Ankle Socks, $, available at Stox
Without wanting to overstate matters, latch hooking basically revolutionised my evenings. Having something to do with my hands, that I could get totally lost in, was so soothing, and it made me appreciate a night in front of the TV so much more (this almost certainly has to do with the fact that when I’m latch hooking, I cannot be on my phone). This cushion took me quite a while to complete, which provided my evenings with a nice sense of continuity, and when it was finished, I had something gorgeous and handmade to send to my sister in Sydney for her birthday.
Craft Club Latch Hook Cushion Kit, $, available at Craft Club
RIGHT: Let’s talk toe boxes. I know that probably sounds like the most boring sentence ever uttered (and actually yeah, it might be up there), but in fact a wide toe box has improved not just the walking I’ve done recently but the working out, too. It goes without saying that when you’re walking long distances, your feet can swell up, and so a bit of extra room for your toes goes a long way in the comfort stakes, but equally I’ve noticed that when I’m doing weights in these Altras, having a bigger toe box (and, it has to be said, a super grippy Vibram sole) means that I’m able to ground myself a lot more, and that added stability has definitely improved my technique.
Altra Lone Peak 9+ Woman, $, available at Altra
Outershells in summer remind me a bit of that line from The Simpsons — “We learn karate so that we need never use it.” Basically, it’s a “prepare for the worst, hope for the best” situation. I took Montane’s Cetus jacket with me when I hiked in the Brecon Beacons recently and had the perfect summer outershell experience: I used it at 6 a.m. when it was cool (thanks to a hydrophilic membrane that’s designed to breathe as you move, it kept me warm without giving that sticky/claustrophobic feeling some raingear can manifest), took it off once I warmed up, was completely unaffected by its weight in my backpack once I put it away, and was reassured by its quiet, lightweight presence any time rain threatened. Hikes aside, this jacket means I’m officially done with umbrellas in my day-to-day life: I’ll be throwing it in my bag whenever the London weather looks unpredictable (ie. all the time). Plus as any experienced packer knows, less weight = more room for Mint Aeros.
Montane Cetus Waterproof Jacket, $, available at Montane
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