It was originally a thoughtful birthday present, but now shopping writer Lauren wouldn’t dream of heading away without the beauty essential
As a beauty lover, keeping all my makeup organised in one place can feel like a full-time job, and it’s even harder when I’m travelling, staying overnight, or heading to my boyfriend’s for the weekend. Luckily, a couple of years ago, a friend gifted me something that completely changed the game, and it hasn’t left my rotation since.
In fact, with Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day coming up, I’d even go as far as to say it’s one of those thoughtful, pretty gifts that feels both practical and special. The item in question is the Elizabeth Scarlett Wildflower Everyday Pouch (£34), which I received for my birthday more than two years ago.
This sweet embroidered wash bag has travelled everywhere with me, from holidays in Italy and Spain to overnight hotel stays and regular weekends at my boyfriend’s house. What made it even more special was the personal touch: my friend had it embroidered with my initials, which instantly elevated it from ‘nice wash bag’ to something I’ll probably keep forever.
Despite being well-loved (and well-travelled), the bag is still going strong with very little sign of wear. The inside is admittedly a little messy thanks to makeup residue, but that’s easily sorted with a quick wash, making it ideal for everyday use rather than something I’m afraid to use.
There is also a matching makeup bag available for £38, but personally, I much prefer the Everyday Bag. It comfortably fits everything I need (skincare, makeup, brushes, and even a perfume or two) without feeling bulky.
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The pretty bag is embroidered with scattered posies of yellow, pink and red.
It’s also double-sided, meaning I can enjoy the beautiful scattered wildflower embroidery from every angle. There are plenty of matching accessories to explore too, including a sleep mask (£28) and coin purse (£18), which would make lovely add-on gifts or treats in their own right.
Besides Elizabeth Scarlett, I’ve also got this velvet pouch from Evidens de Beauté, the luxury brand that blends Japanese beauty and French elegance. The midnight blue bag has also served me well over the years and has a permanent spot on my dressing table.
Another game-changer that I use is my personalised travel jewellery box from Oliver Bonas, although my original pink version is out of stock. Still, this blue iteration (£14.50) is a good alternative and helps organise necklaces and earrings for holidays, rather than risking them rattling around in my makeup bag.
Back to Elizabeth Scarlett, I genuinely don’t have any gripes about my pouch. True, it is pretty pricey, but it still looks as good as the day I got it, and it would make a charming gift for a loved one or a beauty devotee.
Overall, this is one of those rare beauty accessories that feels just as special years later as it did when I first unwrapped it. And it’s proof that sometimes, the most thoughtful gifts really do stand the test of time.
