QGossip

Celebrate the Jubilee in sparkling British style

2012-06-01T23:58:00+01:00

The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee really is the crowning moment of what promises to be an amazing year for Great Britain. Here at QVC we are marking it in style with a celebration of the Best of British – an event full of iconic British brands and some specially designed items.

Today’s Butler & Wilson Today’s Special Value is available in a cool Union Jack design, making it the perfect way to fly the flag with pride… and a little sparkle!

Also, we are all particularly excited about Tuesday’s Today’s Special Value (pictured), the Clogau Gold Jubilee Celebration ring. This design features a yellow gold band with rose gold overlay in a unique Tree of Life design, finished with six diamond accents, one for each decade of the Queen’s reign.

The design beautifully combines the popular Tree of Life design with the symbols of Great Britain - the English Rose, the Welsh Daffodil, the Scottish Thistle and the Irish Shamrock.

Best of all, Clogau produced this especially for QVC and it is a limited edition of only 2012, making it a perfect keepsake or heirloom piece – what better way to commemorate this special year?

Or why not remember this event with a piece from our Jubilee-cut Diamonique range. This striking collection features simulated diamonds cut for maximum sparkle, with facets like a round-cut stone but in a square shape so they catch the light at all angles. Tune into QVC TV at 11pm today, Sunday and Monday, and throughout the day on Tuesday to see more.

Lastly, we are very proud to be introducing the Official Jewellery Collection of London 2012 from Links of London. This British jewellery brand has created a fun and stylish range with Union Jacks galore, check out QGossip tomorrow to learn more.

Don’t forget to tune into QVC TV on Tuesday 5th June for a day full of celebrations, hopefully including a Morning Show garden party (fingers crossed for no rain!) Plus, a selection of Easy Pay instalment offers to help you kick off the party.

Take a look at our Best of British page to see more from our top Brit brands

Visit our jewellery department.

Will takes a look at the Best of British...

2012-06-01T18:00:00+01:00

I'm sure we all remember last year's Royal Wedding - Union Jacks and bunting galore, I loved it!

Well it's nice to know that all of the patriotic paraphernalia I invested in will be getting a second - and possibly third and fourth - outing.

With HM The Queen's Diamond Jubilee in full swing, I thought it would be nice to take a look behind the doors of one of our favourite British brands at QVC. If you love a Union Jack you'll LOVE this video...

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Browse the Butler & Wilson range.

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Will: Our bareMinerals web exclusive!

2012-05-31T23:55:00+01:00

Welcome to Beauty Month here on QVC! Our theme for June is Access All Areas so I'm going to be bringing you lots of video blogs from behind the scenes.

To get the ball rolling I've got some exciting news... the lovely people over at bareMinerals have created a kit exclusively for our website qvcuk.com, it's the Summer Essentials Travel Collection.

I recently caught up with bareMinerals favourite SJ to take a closer look at this collection and get some application tips for you at home, take a peek...

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You can buy your Summer Essentials Travel Collection by following the blue link and you can also visit the entire bareMinerals range.

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Will takes a peek at our Butler & Wilson TSV...

2012-05-31T16:39:20+01:00

Hi everyone!

Well here it is, our Today's Special Value from Butler & Wilson. It will be live on QVC this coming Saturday 2nd of June.

Earlier this week I popped on over to the Butler & Wilson store on London's Fulham Road to chat to Simon all about his Today's Special Value and of course to have a good nose around, take a look below...

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Browse the Butler & Wilson range.

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New community page coming soon!

2012-05-31T13:48:03+01:00

We've been busy working behind the scenes on a brand new community page! Here you will find everything from the latest news and gossip, competitions, tips and advice from our presenters and experts and more!

While we are busy putting this new page on our website, things may start to look a little different. Don't worry, we're working to make these changes as quickly as possibly so you can start using our new community page! Thanks for your patience and we hope you like it...

The winner of our Birkenstock competition is...

2012-05-31T11:42:41+01:00

To celebrate eight years of fabulous Birkenstock footwear at QVC, we gave you the chance to win a pair of stylish brown, peacock print sandals (left) by answering this simple question:

When was Birkenstock first established?

The correct answer was C) 1774, and we can now reveal that the lucky winner is Marie Gerrard from Cheshire.

Congratulations! Your prize will be despatched to you shortly.

If you weren't lucky this time, keep your eyes peeled for more competitions coming soon.

Pop Queen Jessie J wears our Diamonique Crown!!

2012-05-29T16:01:15+01:00

You may remember that to celebrate the Queen's Diamond Jubilee, QVC recreated the Imperial State Crown – out of Diamonique!

Well if you go and grab yourself a copy of Grazia magazine you'll see singer & songwriter Jessie J wearing it on the front cover!

The Diamonique Jubilee Crown features 2,276 replica stones from QVC's Diamonique collection. The crown took 30 days to make, weighs approximately 1.5kg and has been valued at £10,528.

Jessie J is well known for her success in the music industry, which is why she was the perfect choice to be a judge on BBC One show The Voice. The final will be broadcast live on BBC One this Saturday!

Our Diamonique Jubilee Crown will be auctioned off for Breast Cancer Care later this year as the ultimate accessory for fashion queens looking to build a jewellery collection fit for royalty. Some other people have also been trying it on for size...

Follow the blue link to browse our Diamonique range and you can also keep up to date with all that's happening here at QVC by 'liking' our Facebook page and visiting us on Twitter.

Win a pair of gorgeous Birkenstock sandals!

2012-05-29T00:01:00+01:00

Today we're celebrating the 8th anniversary of fashionable footwear brand Birkenstock here at QVC. Their fun, colourful range of sandals are so comfy and just the thing to brighten up your wardrobe, especially now that the weather is hotting up!

Now, we know how popular Birkenstocks are, so we're offering you the chance to win a fabulous pair of brown, peacock print sandals (see picture left) worth about £50!

Read on to find out how you can enter...

To be in with a chance of winning these Birkenstock sandals, all you need to do is answer this simple question:

When was Birkenstock first established?

A. 1974
B. 1824
C. 1774

Hint - check out our Birkenstock shop to help you out!

Email your answer with the subject 'Birkenstock comp' to competitions_uk@qvc.com and include your shoe size, full name, address and contact number for your chance to win. The competition closes at 11.59pm on Wednesday 30th May 2012. One correct entry will be randomly selected and announced in QGossip on Thursday 31st May. Good luck!

View the full terms and conditions

Check out the full Birkenstock range

Stephanie Weightman starts Christmas crafting!

2012-05-27T23:58:00+01:00

Hi crafters!

It's that time of year again - let's get started on Christmas crafting! And we have a brand new product to help you on your way - a Christmas silicone mould starter kit.

It can create some lovely festive embellishments that are perfect for decorating Christmas cards and paper crafting projects.

Here is my step by step guide to using the kit:

Application one - plaster of Paris

Step 1: To make plaster of Paris, mix three parts plaster into two parts water to get the perfect consistency. Stir thoroughly.

Step 2: Place the mould on a level surface and pour the mixture of plaster of Paris into the mould slowly. Ensure that all gaps are filled and no bubbles are present by using a cocktail stick or a pin to push the mixture into the corners. Spread the mixture flat over the mould. Allow your design to set for approximately 40 minutes.

Step 3: Once your design is set, carefully push out your design from the mould; apply a light pressure to the bottom as you peel back the sides of the mould, being careful not
to snap any detail off as it is removed. A craft knife can be used to take off any excess. Now you are ready to decorate your chosen design.

Application two - embossing powder (for a more decorative look)

Step 1: Use a small foil container (a small cake foil container will work well), pinch one end of the container to create a spout. Attach a wooden peg to the foil container. Place a small amount of embossing powder in the container. Make sure your area is covered by a heat proof mat.

Step 2: Hold the peg and melt the embossing powder from underneath the container with a heat gun until molten. Add more powder once it is molten, the new powder will quickly melt into the original.

Step 3: Place your mould on a level surface, pour your molten embossing powder into the mould. The molten embossing powder will set very quickly and is extremely hot so exercise caution.

Step 4: Once your design is set, carefully push out your design from the mould; apply a light pressure to the bottom as you peel back the sides of the mould.

Moulds are re-useable - clean with warm soapy water after use and dry well before storing.

Make sure you tune in on Wednesday 30th May at 1pm to see our Early Bird Christmas Crafting show!

Browse our full craft department

Introducing a new jewellery range - Imperial Artisan

2012-05-25T23:58:00+01:00

Here at QVC Towers we love anything that makes us feel a little bit special, and our newest, handmade artisan brand does just that - we're so excited to welcome to QVC, Imperial Artisan Silver!

Inspired by the past and created for the future, this collection blossoms with timeless beauty. Each design is handmade by Beijing-based master jewellers using traditional techniques that date back as far as the Tang Dynasty (A.D. 618 - 907).

This was a period of great cultural exchange by way of trade and religion along the Silk Road. The Chinese empire drew artistic inspiration from sources both inside and outside its borders, meaning they show influences from Persian, Indian, Arabic and Turkish craftsmen.

The contemporary craftsmen and women of Imperial Artisan Silver interpret these classic designs using skilled techniques. Auspicious symbolism and meanings are also an important characteristic in the jewellery designs, with graphic patterns and symbols taken from the natural world representing happiness, peace, longevity, good health, harmony and advancement.

The carefully worked silver is then set with natural precious stones, cultured pearls, all selected for their brilliance and lustre, as well as other fine works of art.

Here is a little sneak peek at the master artisans at work -

They are using many traditional techniques including:

Repousse - like embossing where a pattern on the front of the piece of silver is created by hammering or punching in from the back.

17th century example (left) and a modern example (right)

Filigree - silver wire bent or twisted into a decorative pattern.

An 8th century example (left) and a modern example (right)

Cloisonne enamel - ribbons are bent into closed shapes called 'cloissons', which are then affixed to a metal base in a decorative pattern and filled with enamel.

An early 20th century example (left) and a modern example (right)

Join us tonight (Saturday 26th May) at 8pm to see guest Yim Tom talk about this wonderful new range.

See the full Imperial Artisan Silver range

Visit our jewellery department

Liz Earle introduces the brand new launch of Colour

2012-05-25T23:55:00+01:00

Hi everyone,

I’m so very pleased to let you know that Liz Earle Colour will launch on Tuesday 29^th May at 6pm.

Join Jane Bradley and I live on air, as we introduce our new high-performance range of make up, which includes an unmissable line-up of summer beauty essentials.

About Liz Earle Colour

Liz Earle Colour is the result of a four year journey to create a make-up range that’s as high-performance and dependable as our naturally active skincare. We know what women want from their make-up, because they tell us: formulas and colours that are easy to choose and apply, so you can achieve professional results at home with minimum fuss.

We’ve made sure that Liz Earle Colour is a pleasure to wear, with textures and shades that beautifully enhance all ages and types of skin. Our new range includes many multi-tasking products that can be relied upon every day – this really is make up made easy.

Jane Bradley – our International Make-up Artist

Throughout the development of Liz Earle Colour, I’ve had the pleasure of working with a specially chosen team of make-up professionals, including Jane Bradley.

Jane has been a make-up artist in the fashion, music and celebrity worlds for almost 20 years, and her strong desire to educate women and make them feel confident about their make-up fits perfectly with our passion for approachable beauty.

Our summer make-up capsule collection

To celebrate the launch of our new colour range and help you prepare for the warmer weather, we’ve created a special line-up of summer beauty must-haves, exclusively for QVC customers. Our summer make-up capsule collection will help you instantly create naturally dewy, even and radiant skin; brighten dark circles; add subtle highlights; make cheeks look fresh and glowing; and give lips a luscious, luminous shine.

Jane Bradley and I will be launching this exclusive collection and revealing more about the philosophy behind Liz Earle Colour, live on QVC on Tuesday 29^th May at 6pm. We really hope you enjoy the show and, as always, would love to hear your thoughts and feedback.

Best wishes

Liz

P.S Will caught up with Caroline Archer last week at our London store to find out more...

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View the full Liz Earle range

QVC: The Autumn/Winter Preview...

2012-05-25T10:00:00+01:00

You're probably wondering why on earth I'm talking about Autumn and Winter in May, well QVC recently invited journalists to preview our collections for next season.

This event is a great opportunity for us to show some of the biggest publications what we do; jewellery, homeware, fashion, accessories, beauty, electronics...

I popped along to the venue in central London to see what's coming up from September, take a look...

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Best Niche Channel in the Freesat Awards 2012!

2012-05-24T15:31:59+01:00

The news was announced last night that we have won Best Niche Channel in this year's Freesat Awards! This is an exciting achievement for us and we would love to thank everyone who voted for us!

The Freesat panel say "QVC is passionate about what they do, is compelling to watch... and never stops innovating."

The Freesat Awards are now in their fourth year and aim to recognise the very best in channels and services available on the Freesat service, so it's a real privilege for us to have sccoped an award at this year's ceremony.

Will: Aubrey Handbags on QVC...

2012-05-24T11:53:25+01:00

Hi everyone!

Coming up this Saturday on QVC we'll be presenting a whole hour of Aubrey Handbags at 12pm. We've only seen this show once before and it had to finish early because every piece sold out.

I headed off to London's Covent Garden earlier this week to catch up with Aubrey's designer Isla Simpson at her pop-up shop, take a look...

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You can view the entire Aubrey range right now and don't forget to tune in on Saturday at midday.

See you soon,

Will x

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Sunday's TSV revealed...

2012-05-24T09:53:37+01:00

Coming up this Sunday we'll be presenting a Today's Special Value from TomTom, who are UK leaders when it comes to satellite navigation.

This is latest version from TomTom and boasts faster processing speeds, which means getting from A to B even more efficiently. QVC's Will Gowing tells us more about this handy gadget...

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The TomTom Via 135 Sat Nav comes complete with European maps, so it's going to be perfect for the summer holidays. It's also Bluetooth enabled, so that you can make those hands-free calls while on the move. Catch the full presentation on QVC during selected hours on Sunday the 27th of May.

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Sneak a peek at Decleor's latest Today's Special Value

2012-05-23T23:55:00+01:00

One of France's leading beauty brands is back this weekend with another fantastic Today's Special Offer. Decleor's beauty expert, Fiona Brackenbury, will be showcasing the Decleor Anti-Ageing Summer Collection on Saturday 26th May - the perfect beauty set to prep and protect your skin for the summer.

Here's Fiona to tell you a little more…

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View the full Decleor range

Alex from Martha Stewart Crafts on new crafter's clay!

2012-05-22T23:58:00+01:00

Hello crafters!

Are you ready for a revolutionary new craft product?

Here at Martha Stewart Crafts, we are always coming up with new tools and mediums to take your crafting to the next level.

And if you tune in to QVC on May 23rd and 24th, you'll be one of the first to see our next big product - crafter's clay.

Our new crafter's clay is an ultra-lightweight sculpting medium that has an amazing texture, so it's really easy to work with. You can use it free-form or with any of our Martha Stewart Crafts moulds to create gorgeous, one-of-a-kind embellishments.

I love painting and glittering the dried pieces to add an extra-special touch to my cards and scrapbook pages. My favorite part of all though, is mixing the clay colors to create beautiful custom shades. There are countless ways to use crafter's clay, so let your creativity run wild!

I'm also thrilled to tell you about a very special guest who will be joining me on the next show. Kristin St. Clair is a lifelong crafter and has appeared on The Martha Stewart Show many times to craft with Martha. She's full of inspiration and fun ideas and I know you are all going to love her!

Be sure to tune in to QVC on May 23rd at 4pm to meet Kristin and see our great new product in action!

All the best,

Alex

Browse the full Martha Stewart Crafts range.

Press preview new Aurora jewellery range at QVC

2012-05-22T11:27:39+01:00

We were excited to showcase our brand new Aurora jewellery range to over 150 press last week - including a range of prestigious titles such as Elle, Daily Mail, Daily Mirror, Look, Bella, Best and Woman.

Plus, we were also graced by the presence of top British fashion designer Giles Deacon and fashionistas Rosie and Gabriella from Channel 4's show 'Made In Chelsea'.

The Aurora jewellery range is an exciting addition to our jewellery offering here at QVC and comprises simple fine jewellery pieces, expertly and individually assembled by hand. Each piece is made with SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS, the premium brand for fine, loose-cut crystals.

We have one item available for you right now (see picture left) - it's a necklace and earring set featuring irregular-cut faceted crystal drops with Swarovski crystal elements. See more pictures of the range below...

Celebs preview the new range

Some dazzling highlights in the range - coming soon to QVC!

Visit our jewellery department

Join Breast Cancer Care’s Pink Ribbonwalk!

2012-05-21T17:13:22+01:00

Join us this summer for one of Breast Cancer Care's Pink Ribbonwalk events in association with woman&home magazine. Escape to the countryside for a day of breathtaking views and an amazing atmosphere, while raising money for a fantastic cause!

You will be supported around a beautiful ten or twenty mile route so you can cross the finish line in style in front of friends and family. Plus you will receive a medal, a massage and a celebratory BBQ!

Dates and venues:

Petworth House – West Sussex – 26 May 2012
Cholmondeley Castle, Cheshire – 9 June 2012
Marble Hill Park, London – 16 June 2012 (brand new date!)

QVC teams will be supporting Breast Cancer Care by taking part in the Cholmondeley Castle walk on 9th June and Marble Hill Park walk on 16th June!

To register please visit www.pinkribbonwalk.org.uk

Visit the Breast Cancer Care website here

Peony founder Julie Bates on their fab faux flowers

2012-05-19T23:55:00+01:00

Peony's stunning range of life-like flowers and arrangements offer the perfect maintenance-free finishing touches for your home.

Faux flowers are the easy, carefree and stylish way to add a statement piece to any room.

We spoke to Peony founder Julie Bates to find out a bit more behind the brand and their gorgeous new Today's Special Value rose display which is launching on Monday 21st May.

What makes Peony different to normal faux flowers?
Peony flowers are amazingly realistic. We grow many varieties of flowers in our garden and we have these copied in high-end factories so that they are exact replicas of our British Flora.

Many are hand-painted as flower petals are rarely the same colour throughout the flower head. We also add many leaves, twigs and branches, just as one does when picking and arranging flowers at home.

What inspired you to create a rose arrangement for your TSV?
Roses are at the heart of all British people. Our neighbor here in Shropshire is David Austin, the greatest rose grower of our era, his beautiful blooms definitely had a helping hand in inspiring the display.

Do you have any tips on how to style this Peony arrangement?
This arrangement features British Summer flowers and will fit perfectly in any home, ideal for the dining table, entrance hall or maybe a bedroom. The addition of our floral spray is the perfect finishing touch.

What inspires your arrangements and collections?
The gardens at Ruckley House are our main inspiration.

Did you go to the Chelsea flower show last year? What trends did you like?
Although we did not exhibit our product at Chelsea flower show in 2011, we have in the past with huge success. We were, however, visitors to the show which gave us time to enjoy and discover the trends and colour’s on display.

One trend I love at the moment is the huge Italian influence that is appearing – gardens that are large but use only green flowers – like hostas and bushes. Shrubs and hedging also give the garden structure.

Many of the flower beds were encircled by box hedges, yew hedges, lavender or cat mint enclosing roses. Some beds are encircled by two heights of yew, which forms a step pattern – the outer ring could be 2’ in height and the inner ring maybe up to 3’ in height. Box balls and topiary were also heavily featured, and many wild flowers using our native flora.

Tune in on Monday 21st May to see this gorgeous Peony arrangement

View the full Peony range

Will: 'Ask Alison' part 5...

2012-05-18T08:00:00+01:00

Welcome to part five of our 'Ask Alison' series. Alison Young is QVC's resident beauty expert and in this series we're asking her YOUR beauty questions.

You can add your questions by commenting in the box at the bottom of this blog and don't forget to look out for Alison on our dedicated beauty channel, QVC Beauty!

If you've missed the previous 'Ask Alison' blogs just follow the blue links to recap on parts one, two, three and four.

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In the video Alison mentioned the Bliss Energising Mask, the Prai Infusion Treatment, and also items from the Philip Kingsley range.

In the video Alison mentioned items from the Laura Geller range, Bobbie Brown, Elemis, Decleor Neroli and L'Occitane.

Add your beauty questions at the bottom of this blog or head on over to Alison Young's Beauty Bible page.

Don't forget you can stay in touch with us by 'liking' our Facebook page and visiting us on Twitter. You can also watch the QVC Beauty Channel on Sky 658, Freesat 816 and Freeview channel 35.

See you soon, Will x

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Visit our beauty department

Ojon founder Denis Simioni reveals the latest TSV

2012-05-17T23:55:00+01:00

Hi Ojon fans, Denis here!

I'm so delighted to be back in the UK this summer and even more excited to be launching our Today’s Special Value on Saturday 19^th May – a three-piece Repair and Lift Collection you won’t want to miss!

This kit is perfect to use over the summer – as you know the warmer months can play havoc with your locks. Sun and sea leaves your hair feeling dry and damaged. Ojon’s Damage Reverse Collection will help return your hair back to healthy shiny happiness every day!

Here’s what you’ll find inside…

Damage Reverse Restorative Shampoo
One of our bestsellers on QVC, this is a luxurious and rich cleanser fortified with wheat protein and coconut that enriches and restores while it washes. The pure Ojon Oil penetrates deep within the hair shaft, so can you help hydrate it back to perfect health with every wash!

Damage Reverse Restorative Conditioner
Also a favourite, this conditioner helps seal in shine and revitalises hair. Rich in moisturising lipids that help repair the hair, this luxurious balm also helps build strength to protect against future damage.

Volume Advance Volumizing Mousse
We’ve added our brand NEW mousse to this kit to give you lift, body and bounce, so using this after the shampoo and conditioner will give your hair a brilliant hydrating boost!

So there you go, your summer hair must-haves all wrapped up ready for you to take away! We hope you join us on Saturday for this brilliant Today's Special Value.

Denis

View the full Ojon haircare range

Check out tomorrow's Get Gorgeous line up...

2012-05-17T00:01:00+01:00

It's time to refresh your look for the season with our fabulous Get Gorgeous event coming up tomorrow (Friday May 18th).

We'll be devoting the whole day to stylish fashion and accessories, dazzling jewellery and must-have beauty treats, and the best thing is that everything is available in Easy Pay instalments!

Here's a little taster of what to look out for on the big day...

Tiana B Today's Special Value dress

Don't miss out on this gorgeous, floral maxi dress from Tiana B launching at midnight tonight. It comes in an easy-to-wear textured jersey fabric and features a vibrant all-over floral print with cute ruched, short sleeves. It's just the thing to kick start your summer wardrobe! Plus, make sure you check out the rest of our Tiana B offers on the day too.

Annalee + Hope fashion

This range offers fun, on-trend designs that are affordable too. Look out for their contemporary separates, including this stylish block colour top (left) plus comfy classics that will be your wardrobe staples for the season ahead - and don't forget, you can spread the cost with our Easy Pay instalment selection tomorrow.

Butler & Wilson jewellery and accessories

Every woman needs a little sparkle to brighten up their wardrobe! So, take advantage of our instalment offers on glamorous Butler & Wilson jewellery and accessories, such as this stunning jewelled clutch bag (left).

New CID cosmetics

Give yourself a makeover and get that flawless make-up finish with the innovative range of cosmetics from New CID. Voted Best Newcomer in last year's Customer Beauty Awards, the range was put together by a team of professional make-up artists to provide you with wearable, easy-to-use shades. Why not snap up this fabulous make-up collection (left) in Easy Pay instalments?

Elemis beauty

Treat yourself and indulge in a little spa-style pampering at home with award-wining beauty products from Elemis. Their luxurious formulas are so popular and now you can stock up on your favourites by spreading the cost with our event selection in Easy Pay instalments.

Diamonique by Andrea McLean

Don't miss tomorrow's selection of sparkling Diamonique jewellery designed by TV presenter Andrea McLean. Her simulated diamond designs are stylish and elegant, like this tennis bracelet (left) and we have a fabulous selection in Easy Pay monthly instalments.

So, make sure you tune in for all these great brands and lots more from midnight tonight in our Get Gorgeous event!

Shop now with our preview of tomorrow's event offers

Home buyer Faye on the exciting new EasiYo range

2012-05-16T10:06:37+01:00

Hi everyone,

I’m Faye and I’m the associate buyer for our Kitchen and Food department. This week we're thrilled to be the launching the first ever EasiYo yoghurt smoothie in a delicious vanilla bean flavourand what's even more exciting is we are the first retailer WORLDWIDE to stock it!

We love to bring you exclusive products and have worked hard with our friends at EasiYo to bring you something new and delicious! It has created a real buzz in the office and has quickly become a firm favourite. It contains all the usual EasiYo goodness that we know you love, and I'm sure you'll adore the sumptuous, creamy taste and the luxurious vanilla bean pods. And if that wasn't enough you can buy them now at a fantastic Try Me price of £10.32!

We hope you love it as much as we do, and would love to hear what you think?

Here is a bit more information about the brand and some handy hints and tips too!

How did EasiYo start?

Every morning, Len Light and his wife Kathy would make fresh yoghurt for their eight children. Len knew how beneficial fresh probiotic yoghurt was for you, and over time he came up with an ingenious way of producing yoghurt perfectly every time. In 1993 Len set up the EasiYo Home Yoghurt Company in New Zealand, the 'clean green country' where EasiYo is still made to this day.

What are the benefits of probiotic yoghurt?

Fresh yoghurt contains large amounts of nutrients and probiotic cultures, also known as 'friendly bacteria'. The fresher the yoghurt, the more live and active cultures it contains.

These cultures have a limited lifetime, so for the greatest benefits make up fresh EasiYo yoghurt everyday with an EasiYo Yoghurt Maker. That way, you're getting incredibly fresh yoghurt and billions of beneficial cultures in every spoonful.

Hints and tips

EasiYo tastes great, is made from wholesome ingredients and is really versatile. Use EasiYo yoghurt as a delicious low-fat alternative to milk, cream, sour cream, cream cheese or mayonnaise.

Here are a few hints and tips to ensure you get the best EasiYo yoghurt.

Sachets: always use a new EasiYo sachet to make sure all the lactic cultures are present in your yoghurt every time.
Stir-in whey Stir back in any whey (clear liquid) that forms in your yoghurt. Whey is extremely nutritious and can also be drained from the yoghurt and included in soups or drinks.
For a mild flavourFor a mild taste, chill freshly made EasiYo yoghurt as soon as it sets, i.e. in approximately 6 hours.
For a tangy flavourFor a tangy taste incubate longer, i.e. 8 - 10 hours or overnight.

How to make EasiYo yoghurt

Here's your simple step-by-step guide to making delicious EasiYo yoghurt.
Half-fill your EasiYo yoghurt jar with water.
Add the EasiYo sachet and thoroughly mix in the contents. Add 2 - 4 tablespoons of sugar according to taste.
Top up the jar with more cold water.
Replace lid and shake.
Push down the baffle inside the Yoghurt Maker to its limit. Pour boiling water into the Yogurt Maker to the top of the red baffle.
Place the jar inside the Yoghurt Maker, allowing the boiling water to rise up around the base of the jar. Replace the lid on your Yogurt Maker.

Leave the Yoghurt Maker for 6 to 8 hours, or overnight until set. Then store the yogurt maker in the refrigerator (4°C).
Serve chilled and enjoy! Find out how you can use EasiYo yoghurt in your favourite recipes.

For best results

It's important that the cold water in the jar is clean drinking water i.e. treated water supply, cold-boiled or bottled water.
When using EasiYo yogurt during cold weather, top up the sides of the yogurt jar inside the Yogurt Maker with just a bit more boiled water. This will help the yoghurt to set better.
When making yogurt during warm weather, use a little less boiling water (1cm) inside the Yogurt Maker.
Always clean the yogurt jar and lid thoroughly with a damp cloth between use. Do not immerse in water or put them into the dishwasher.
It's recommended that you do not leave the Yoghurt Maker overnight in a cold room. However if this occurs wrap it up in a towel to keep it from getting cold.

We hope you have fun and enjoy the magic of EasiYo!

Love Faye x

Will: Pillows, duvets & featherbeds made simple...

2012-05-15T14:18:01+01:00

It's fair to say that there's a lot of choice out there when it comes to shopping for pillows, duvets and featherbeds.

Sometimes too much choice over complicates the situation and when it comes to your sleep, you want to get it right.

I caught up with Northern Nights expert Sam Doubledee to make shopping for pillows, devets and featherbeds simple, take a look...

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Just follow the blue link to take a look at our current range of pillows from Northern Nights.

Just follow the blue link to take a look at our current range of duvets from Northern Nights.

Just follow the blue link to take a look at our current range of featherbeds from Northern Nights.

You can browse our entire Northern Nights range here on our website and don't forget you can stay in touch with us by 'liking' our Facebook page and visiting us on Twitter.

See you soon, Will x

Follow Will Gowing on Twitter

Alison Young reveals Emma Hardie's first ever TSV!

2012-05-14T23:55:00+01:00

If you're a fan of Emma Hardie's iconic Moringa Cleansing Balm, then you're going to love her first ever Today's Special Value launching on Wednesday 16th May. It's a complete day and night facial collection that will cleanse your skin leaving it wonderfully hydrated and radiant.

Here's Alison Young with some more information…

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Find out more about the Emma Hardie TSV
View the full Emma Hardie skincare range

The winners of our L'Occitane competition are...

2012-05-14T13:59:48+01:00

Following the success of the L’Occitane Garden at RHS Chelsea in 2010, they have joined forces with an award-winning garden designer to create the Immortelle Garden at this year's show (see watercolour image left).

To celebrate this special occasion, L'Occitane gave you the chance to win two tickets to the Royal Chelsea Flower Show 2012 (Thursday 24th May) to visit the spectacular gardens and meet L'Occitane expert Alexis Murdoch.

We can now reveal that the lucky winner of the tickets is…Michelle Wales from Kent. Congratulations! A representative from L'Occitane will be in contact shortly to arrange your prize.

The prizes don't stop there…

L'Occitane kindly offered 10 runners up prizes too - a L'Occitane beauty hamper worth £49.50!

The runners up are…

Sue Belcher from Norfolk
Abby Bookham from Loughborough
Phil Darling from Stowmarket
Lisa Parker from London
Geraldine Roult from London
Patricia Coombes from Oxon
Patricia Clarke from Suffolk
Stephanie Shand from Buckinghamshire
Ms. D Harper from East Sussex
Joy Bateman from St Leonards-on-Sea

Congratulations to all the winners!

If you weren't lucky enough this time round, keep your eyes peeled for more competition coming soon.

Will: 'Ask Alison' part 4...

2012-05-14T12:08:03+01:00

Welcome to part four of our 'Ask Alison' series. Alison Young is QVC's resident beauty expert and in this series we're asking her YOUR beauty questions.

You can add your questions by commenting in the box at the bottom of this blog and don't forget to look out for Alison on our dedicated beauty channel, QVC Beauty!

If you've missed the previous 'Ask Alison' blogs just follow the blue links to recap on parts one, two and three.

What's the best concealer?

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Alison mentioned the Laura Geller Real Deal Foundation, the Spackle Primer, Gatineau Force Collagene, and the Decleor Hydrotenseur Serum.

Emma Palmer 'Asks Alison' about spots...

In the video Alison mentioned products from the Australian Bodycare range, as well as Decleor Prolagene Gel and Ultrasun.

QVC customer Jasmine Lee 'Asks Alison' about unwanted hair...

Add your beauty questions at the bottom of this blog or head on over to Alison Young's Beauty Bible page.

Don't forget you can stay in touch with us by 'liking' our Facebook page and visiting us on Twitter. You can also watch the QVC Beauty Channel on Sky 658, Freesat 816 and Freeview channel 35.

See you soon, Will x

Follow Will Gowing on Twitter
Visit our beauty department

Kelly Hoppen and QVC support Prince's Trust campaign

2012-05-14T11:55:37+01:00

QVC has teamed up with designer Kelly Hoppen to support the Prince's Trust's 'Tomorrow' campaign.

The campaign aims to inspire a generation facing record youth unemployment and urges employers to recognise young people as tomorrow's industry leaders.

Kelly Hoppen will mentor 28-year-old Fay Martin, who overcame unemployment with help from The Prince's Trust, to design a home interiors product that will be sold here on QVC later this year. QVC will also support the mentoring process, providing guidance on product development and retail.

Before coming to The Prince's Trust, Fay had been unemployed for six months. She suffers from a chronic illness which makes it very difficult for her to hold down a full-time job, and at one point, her symptoms got so bad that she couldn't work.

However, Fay has a talent for design, having previously studied illustration and worked as a visual merchandiser. She dreamed of turning her passion for design into a business, and decided to approach The Prince's Trust for help.

QVC Buying Director, Philip Van De Merwe, said: "We have been working with Kelly Hoppen and The Prince's Trust for several years now, so it's a natural step for us to be involved in the Tomorrow campaign. It's great to see one of our established designers helping a young person to break into the industry. We're looking forward to seeing the product they create together, which will be sold exclusively on QVC to raise money for an important and worthy cause."

Other established industry faces taking part in the campaign include beauty entrepreneur Liz Earle.

Visit QVC on Facebook and Twitter.

Visit the Prince's Trust on Facebook & Twitter.

Visit the Trust's website: www.princes-trust.org.uk/tomorrow

Show Genuine Belief in Team GB with Links of London

2012-05-13T23:59:00+01:00

There is so much to look forward to in 2012! Not least, of course, is the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

We are very excited here at QVC to be working with the iconic British jewellers Links of London, who just so happen to be the creators of the Official Jewellery Collection of London 2012.

To kick off the celebrations we are introducing the Team GB band, the perfect way to show your support for Team Great Britain and take home the ultimate memento from the Games.

The unisex band (pictured) features a red and blue woven design, a Chinese knot fastening and a silver-plated bar with 'Team GB' inscription, which stands for both Great Britain and Genuine Belief.

Links of London launched their Genuine Belief campaign last September, which highlights the importance and power of belief in the Olympic team's performance. So even if you weren't lucky enough to get your hands on a ticket, you can still show your support and inspire the nation to get behind the athletes in the build up to the Games.

Some celebrities have already been spotted sporting their own Team GB bands, including singer Natasha Bedingfield, all four members of JLS, Linford Christie, swimmer Rebecca Adlington and many more.

Links of London have also bought onboard four of the UK's Olympic and Paralympic London 2012 hopefuls to act as ambassadors for the collection, they include…

Open water swimmer Keri-Anne Payne, who took home silver in the 2008 Beijing Olympics and was crowned world champion in Rome in 2009.

Track athlete Christian Malcolm from Newport, Wales, who concentrates on 200m and earned himself the title of World Junior Athlete of the Year at 19. He has since come fifth in the 2000 Sydney Olympics and 2008 Beijing Olympics.

Cyclist Sarah Storey OBE, who has competed in both Paralympic and Olympic events. She has won 16 Paralympic medals, including five golds as a swimmer and two golds as a cyclist.

Paralympian rower Tom Aggar, who protected his world title for the third time in the World Rowing Championships in 2010, and became the International Rowing Federations first 'Paralympic Rower of the Year'.

…Go Team GB!

Don't forget to keep an eye out for the full range from Links of London coming to QVC in June.

See the Team GB band

Visit the jewellery department