21st August 2025, by Ashling McCloy | Read time: 8 minutes
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Arriving home after a sun-soaked getaway can hit hard, so I’m here to help. While I’m not suggesting you go wild on the credit card, sometimes a treat is enough to lift the spirits. I’ve pulled together my little shopping list of gorgeousness that might just pull you out of those holiday blues.
Your vacation may have come to an end, but let me remind you that there is much to look forward to. Think new season fashion, cosy weekends in your own bed, the rich aroma of a homemade brew. All these simple joys are precisely that: joyful. Yes, beach-bound days and long evenings sipping on cocktails were magical; however, think about this: it will soon be Christmas. Too soon? I thought as much. So let’s consider how to cure our post-holiday blues.
For me, it’s about bringing some of those vacay vibes home, too. Perhaps you enjoyed watching the world go by at a small bistro in France; if so, have you considered purchasing a coffee machine? It’s on my list, that’s for sure. Or maybe you adored indulging in a glass of fizz on the Amalfi coast, so treat yourself to some fancy new glassware. If you’re missing the hotel, give your bedroom some tlc. If your tan disappeared on the flight home, pep up your skin with beautiful beauty products. And finally, the autumn/winter collections are in store now, so get excited about that new wardrobe revamp. I am.
For me, there’s nothing more decadent than lounging around in a hotel robe. Well, as luck would have it, Colours of Arley has teamed up with the design-loving Collagerie to create a collection of limited-edition holiday-inspired robes. They’re bold, beautiful, and bursting with British charm.
Made from 100% breathable cotton, the robe comes in three vibrant stripe colourways – the Aegean, the Sicilian and the Provençale – finished with crisp contrast piping and a flattering wrap silhouette. Whether draped over a swimsuit or layered at home, I’m officially obsessed.
Whether draped over a swimsuit or layered at home, I’m officially obsessed.
One of the upsides to landing home has got to be crawling into your own bed. The minute I snuggle under those covers, holiday blues seem to simply slip away and melt into happy memories. Piglet In Bed will guarantee that moment of bliss with its latest collection of bedding. Made from only the highest-quality material, it combines the effortless look of linen with the softness of cotton. Heaven.
Top of my new season wish list has got to be anything in suede (or faux suede). It’s set to be big for AW25, and this blazer is the ultimate transitional piece. It looks crazy good right now paired with white cottons, but come winter, it’ll be the perfect luxe layering piece.
I usually light up a scented candle the minute I’m through the door. The fresh aromas instantly transport me back to warmer climes. However, when I discovered the new Farmer’s Market Collection from Interlude, I was impressed. They’re a cute and stylish reminder of quaint markets and local foods. From juicy citrus bundles to tomato-shaped centrepieces, this collection is bursting with seasonal personality.
From juicy citrus bundles to tomato-shaped centrepieces, this collection is bursting with seasonal personality.
I have tried this magic product and it works. Not only does it leave you with this gorgeous natural glow, but it also hydrates and smooths. 100% ideal after too many days under extreme rays or if, like me, you’ve been hiding your face from the UVs and looking like you never left your desk. Try it for yourself.
The satin scarf dominated our summer wardrobes, and it’s set to remain a staple for the foreseeable. For me, it’s a playful reminder of sunny days. Yet this one from Mango is going to work so well with cold-weather colours. Burgundys, browns and rich caramel tones suddenly seem ever so appealing.
So you’ve spent the last couple of weeks sauntering around in flip flops or sandals, then why not ease yourself back into ‘grown-up’ shoes? Slip on these super soft, on-trend loafers for a comfortable step back into work life.
How pretty is this blouse? The minute I spotted it and all its frills, I felt happy. Bohemian, yet chic, this little number is sure to give a confidence boost, especially with this price tag. H&M never fails.
Bohemian, yet chic, this little number is sure to give a confidence boost, especially with this price tag.
One of my favourite things about travelling is eating out. The food is a major factor, but as an Interiors Editor, I can’t help but ogle the tableware and glassware. Thankfully, back here in the UK, we’re lucky to have stores like Late Afternoon, which work with artisans across Europe. For instance, this large pink serving bowl, with a design inspired by antique, collectable ‘lebrillo’ bowls, is an authentic taste of ‘fajalauza’ ceramic tradition of southern Spain. Dinner party, anyone?
Whatever time of year it is, I’m always a sucker for a piece of knitwear. One of my luxury go-tos has got to be American Vintage. The softness of its pieces is indescribable. Plus, as someone who loves simple styling with a burst of colour, Michaël Azoulay’s relaxed basics have my name all over them. There’s nothing more comforting than being wrapped in an American Vintage colourful hug.
If you’re after a spark of joy, then there’s no better place to cheer you up. Lamp London is an extraordinary explosion of bold, bright ceramics and homewares; I challenge you not to be a little happier after perusing the store’s collections. For me, this female-run boutique is my go-to destination for something truly unique. Post holiday, the big thing I miss is the leisurely breakfast, well, as luck would have it, Lamp London has everything you need to make breakkie at home, if not leisurely, at least colourful.
After sunlit days wandering through leafy parks or tree-lined promenades, or lazing under palm trees, coming home to an empty house can feel bleak. Your holiday can quickly become a distant memory. So bring the outdoors inside with an abundance of plants and foliage for the ultimate at-home paradise.
Plus, the Money Tree is said to bring prosperity and positive energy, with good luck woven into the twisted trunks. If there’s a chance of that, I’m taking it.
I cannot tell you how much I adore Lucy Mahon’s work. There’s both a rawness and a beauty to each and every one of her pieces. But more than that, she captures moments or fragments of memories that seem to resonate, often referencing special places. This one, while I don’t live in Hackney, seems to embrace the wonders of where you may live or love.
A new season bag? Don’t mind if I do. The now iconic Ganni Bou bag has arrived in one of the hottest shades of the season: chocolate brown. It’s dinky, sleek and a perfect neutral to go with your AW25 winter wardrobe refresh.
This incredible stainless steel machine from Nespresso not only looks amazing, it also serves up seven coffee styles, from ristretto to latte macchiato, as well as an infinite number of milk recipes. It’s essentially your shortcut to watching the world go by in your favourite French café. And let’s face it, if you’re like me, you’ll need that morning pick-me-up after your hols.
It’s essentially your shortcut to watching the world go by in your favourite French café.
Oh yes… sundowners. After a day on the beach, all dressed in your relaxed finery with that gorgeous tingly feeling, sipping something chilled under a pink-tinged sky, there’s no feeling like it. Now while I can’t replicate the beach-side setting, you can still treat yourself to a cheeky glass of fizz in a pretty coupe. Cheers to the holidays.
The products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however,
The Handbook may make a small commission on some products purchased through affiliate
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