Unpacking: May

A month of beauty highs, emotional dips, and a few surprises I didn’t see coming.

May felt like it had no theme at all…a little chaotic, slightly off-plan, but still filled with moments I’m really glad happened. I went into the month thinking I’d be focused, productive, and on track (in every area), but of course…as usual, life had other ideas. It’s been a bit of everything…exciting career highlights, unexpected emotional dips, beauty mishaps, and trying to figure out what size I even am anymore. Let’s unpack May…

I was hoping this would be my last month of trying to ‘cut’ and drop weight - or so I thought, until I hit a plateau - let’s just say it didn’t quite go as planned. I thought I’d be super consistent with the gym, especially with weight training. I even had this image in my head of me lifting heavy, eating clean, living my best fitness life. That didn’t happen.

I sort of anticipated the month being busy. No real reason why - I didn’t have anything major planned, but I think I’m still moving with the pace that this year started with, and writing these monthly ‘unpacked’ as helped me to notice how starting the year in a particular way really does have a knock-on effect to how it continues - high speed, slightly chaotic, and not exactly predictable. I also hoped I’d finally finish the art piece I’ve been working on for what feels like forever. But you already know where this is going…

Let’s start with the highlight - I was invited by the Dior team to have a one-on-one sit down and tea with Peter Philips, the Creative Director for Dior Beauty. I’ve followed his work for years, and as someone who’s been in the makeup industry for over 20 years, I resonate with his artistry and approach to beauty. We spoke for nearly two hours about how the industry has evolved, and he introduced me to the new collection. I actually met him at the end of April, but I wasn’t allowed to say a word about it until the launch this month. He even gave me the entire new collection to test…which to be honest, I wasn’t expecting. The only problem was…I couldn’t tell anyone or post anything! Also…he followed me on Instagram. Casual.

On the flip side, I hit some roadblocks with my art piece. I had to add an extra layer of work I didn’t see coming - but weirdly it didn’t annoy me. I actually felt this sense of challenge that made me enjoy having to figure out how to solve the issue creatively. It’s not that the painting itself takes me long when I sit down to do it…it’s finding the time that’s the issue. I love it. I really love it. And I’d love to dedicate more time to it. I’m actually considering selling this one…but how does that even work? If you have any insight on selling art, I’m all ears in the comments.

Hormones were not on my side this month. My time of the month hit harder than usual - an emotional rollercoaster with no real reason. I had to cancel pilates twice because my energy was low, my cramps were awful, and I just felt drained. I think at least 5 days were a write off.

I kept up with my Sculptra massages - five minutes a day, five times which, honestly, is harder than you’d think. I had to set a timer each time my massage was due and it felt like it took forever!

I had a Zoom event with MILK Makeup where one of their US artists was showcasing the new products. They sent them to us beforehand, so I had everything laid out, ready to test. Of course, I started playing around before she’d even finished explaining - I swatched the new Cooling Water Jelly Tint in ‘PHreeze.’ It’s totally clear when you first apply it and then develops color after a few minutes - which I didn’t know. So three minutes later, I looked up and realised I had a full clown cheek moment on one side of my face and it wouldn’t come off…full on stain. Safe to say, I spent the rest of the call very carefully angling my camera to one side.

I also had the worst DOMS of my life…it took me an entire week to recover from one gym session. One. I wish I was exaggerating. On top of that, I was out walking Nico and a guy on a mountain bike rode past way too fast, smacked into my shoulder, and ended up leaning into a parked car to stop himself from falling. I was okay but honestly, I was more annoyed at how fast he was going. Being in a residential area - it annoys me even more. This whole electric scooter trend is so annoying. So unsafe. So lazy….like ride a bike, take a walk, get some exercise in.

Booked myself in for body treatments at my usual Kaya Skin Clinic - the Reborn treatment, which is LED-powered and targets fat cells, and T-Shape 2 for smoothing cellulite. Since losing weight, I’ve noticed my skin’s texture changing. More on that later.

I finally tried out The Cullinan steakhouse at Marsa Al Arab and honestly, it was such a highlight. The food was amazing - rich, flavourful, exactly what you want when you decide to go all in on a steak night…but what really sold it to me was the view. That outdoor terrace with the Burj Al Arab in the backdrop was stunning - yes, I live here so I see it every other day but the way it was framed with all the greenery at this new hotel was beautiful. The design of the space was very well done - thoughtful details, elegant without being stiff, and the kind of place that makes you want to just stay there for hours. We sat outside, and shockingly, it was bearable considering it’s May. I kept waiting for that heavy heat to kick in, but it didn’t. I’m convinced we caught the last pleasant outdoor evening before summer hits properly. I actually think this dinner might go down as my final al fresco meal until we defrost again in November.

I’m also really glad I booked a month’s worth of body contouring sessions. I know a lot of people have a lot of opinions or like to keep these kinds of treatments secret for some weird reason…as if they were born with a flawless body, but I have zero shame in getting a bit of help to refine things, and being honest about it. I’ve done the clean eating, the workouts, the walking...and now I want to support the final steps. There’s something so satisfying about being proactive - not in a drastic or obsessive way, just intentional. Carving out some time for myself, doing something that makes me feel good in my skin. I think we sometimes forget that progress doesn’t have to be dramatic to be meaningful. These sessions have reminded me that taking care of yourself - in whatever way that looks like for you - doesn’t need permission or approval. It just needs commitment, and well….some extra money.

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• Birkenstock Boston in Taupe – super comfy and go with everything.

• Beige co-ord from Zara – returned it because it was so itchy.

• Black linen dress from Zara – bought it snug in a medium and told myself I’d fit into it by the end of the month. I did!

• Dyson V12 – gamechanger.

• New Dualit toaster and kettle – I didn’t expect to be this excited about kitchen appliances.

• Mango thick-soled flip flops – looked like a great dupe for The Row Ginza flats…until I wore them. Most painful flats I’ve ever owned. Straight in the bin (should have worn them within the return period).

• Frankie Shop Hayla jeans – already had the white ones in large, which fit perfectly. Ordered the blue ones and they came up huge. Returning them isn’t worth the delivery fees so I’m just calling them my ultra baggy jeans.

• New acrylic paints and canvas boards – thought I’d get ready for when I finally finish my current piece.

• Dehance belts – stunning quality and really unique. Highly recommend.

Surprisingly short list this month - I even had to double check and make sure I didn’t forget a whole chunk of it. Feels suspiciously light, so either I’ve shown restraint or I’ve blacked out a full shopping scroll session.

• Brown shoes – Still on the hunt. I know I need a pair but I genuinely don’t know what style I’m even looking for. Loafers? Something heeled? I keep opening tabs, getting overwhelmed, and closing them again.

• Source Unknown Suede Bomber in Olive – I saw it and instantly fell in love. The colour, the cut…it’s giving quiet luxury but still feels wearable. I’ve had it sitting in my cart for over a week now.

• Frankie Shop Belmont Faux Leather Jacket in Brown – It’s always sold out, so I’ve just left the tab open in case the fashion gods show mercy. No idea how long it’ll stay in my cart…or how long I’ll keep convincing myself it’s even practical for the Dubai summer.

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Still loving my tretinoin journey. Had a bit of purging but it’s been manageable - I’m seeing certain areas of my skin on my face clear up and look ultra smooth (currently it’s the very high points of my cheekbones…which I’m not mad about). I’ve also noticed cellulite now that I’ve lost weight…never had to deal with it before, but it’s here. Hence the body treatments. I’m focusing on the T-Shape 2 treatment, which targets fat and smooths out cellulite. People can judge if they want, but I’m doing what works for me. I call it self-care.

Also…disappointed in myself for not being consistent with weight training this month. I genuinely don’t know where the time goes. I wake up at 6/6:30am, work all day, fit in a reformer pilates session twice a week, walk Nico mornings and evenings, feed him…along with so many other things…and before I know it, it’s bedtime. I finish work by 5:45pm but still can’t figure out when to go to the gym. Do I need to start waking up at 5am? Because I’m not sure that version of me exists yet.

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• Makeup by Mario Master Mascara – A solid everyday mascara that gives volume without clumping. It holds a curl, gives definition, and actually lasts….but I will say it’s not as easy to remove as my usual go-to, the Hourglass Unlocked.

• Dior Lip Butters, Backstage Rosy Glow Blushers, and Blush Sticks – I’m genuinely obsessed with this new range. The textures, the finishes, the tones…everything feels elevated but still wearable. I still can’t believe I got to preview them before the launch during my sit down with Peter Philips.

• Charlotte Tilbury Lip Cheat Contour Duo in Tan – This liner is so good. It glides on like butter but stays put once it sets. The shade is spot on for contouring the lips without looking harsh, and I’ve been pairing it with nude balms…in particular the Dior lip butter in Toffee. It’s the kind of product that instantly upgrades your lip game without much effort.

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Nothing fits. I’m officially in that awkward in-between size phase where everything either clings too much or drowns me. It’s that frustrating stage where you’re not where you were, not quite where you want to be, and your wardrobe hasn’t caught up yet. I’ve been reaching for loungewear thinking it’ll be the safe option, only to end up looking like someone has hit the shrink button on my body and I’m left in oversized clothes that are not the type of oversized that looks good. It’s not cute. Even the pieces I was excited about last month…like the long coat I bought and convinced myself I’d wear all the time…has not seen the light of day. It’s just been sitting there on the rack, judging me. I’ve also realised I need to rework my basics. Nothing feels like me at the moment….and I think that’s part of why I’m struggling with getting dressed. It’s not just about size, it’s about identity. What feels good now? What still feels like me? I think I’m overdue a proper closet reset….but before I even think of shopping - I need to schedule a day or two to clear out the closet!

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• The Voice UK – brings back childhood weekend memories. But why does it feel so rushed now? Before you know it, they’ve announced the winner.

• Mob Land – great show, but Pierce Brosnan and Helen Mirren’s Irish accents are painful to listen to. Still watching it though…because it’s such a good show.

• Suits LA – officially cancelled. Makes sense. The only enjoyable moments were when Harvey and Louis showed up.

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So that was May….a mix of highs, hurdles, and a healthy dose of real life. Not everything went to plan…but when does it?! I’m learning to roll with it, pivot where I need to, and celebrate the small wins along the way…hoping it all adds up in the end. Here’s to hoping June brings a little more structure. June is birthday month…so let’s see what it brings. Let me know if anything in this month’s unpacking hit home - I always love hearing what you’re navigating too.

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