Don’t wait to be pampered, treat yourself!

If you are single, the build-up to Valentine’s Day is honestly quite dreadful, with all the hearts and fuzzy “I Love You” cuddly toys scattered everywhere. Well, now that 14 February has surpassed us, here’s some therapy – treat yourself!

I have narrowed it all down for those people on a budget. This information should direct you on how to spoil yourself any day of the year but still not dig into your piggy bank.

My first recommendation is to buy products that energise you. The scent should be revitalising and make you feel like you’ve come out of a massage session. For this, Rituals is the brand I suggest. Reasonably priced, their products range from Hammam home treatments to Aryuveda, Sakura, Tao and Tatsu – all influenced by the Eastern world.

If this isn’t your scene, there’s Intimmissi, the sexy Italian brand. Founded in 1996, they specialise in bras, briefs, lingerie, vests, and pyjamas for both women and men. The fit is amazing and it doesn’t have to be 100% silk to feel good, as even their cotton bras are divine. Maybe I should be their spokeswoman!

Then again, maybe lingerie doesn’t rock your boat. So, try Links of London. Their selection of bracelets, charms, key chains and everything else is simple and classic, if you don’t want all that bling-bling. Here’s an endearing bracelet with a strawberry in enamel.

Or maybe you want something to get everyone’s attention.  How about this pink schoolgirl look sold in H&M? It may be playful, but still office appropriate. Don’t worry – there are other colours apart from pink.

The last pick is more of a practical gift for you to deal with the solemnly rainy days: this turquoise anorak from Topshop. Its uplifting colour will drive away any winter blues you may have.

You see, retail therapy is certainly possible without breaking the bank.  Happy shopping!

Pooja Sahny