Weekend Wishlist: 8 must-have items our shopping experts are buying this Bank Holiday weekend

The Easter Bank Holiday weekend has officially arrived, and with it, a glorious four days to indulge in not just chocolate, but some retail therapy, too. Whether you’re staying in, heading out, or somewhere in between, the long weekend is the perfect opportunity to finally click add to basket on that item you’ve been eyeing up for weeks.

With so many new-season launches and bank holiday discounts knocking around, it really is a shopper’s dream. And in true Weekend Wishlist fashion, we’re sharing what we’re loving, eyeing up, and (let’s be honest) probably purchasing over the next few days.

This week, shopping experts Bethan and Eve have shared what they’re loving and coveting of late, from makeup and skincare picks, to fashion and fragrance finds. Here’s what’s caught our attention from , and more:

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Merit The Minimalist Perfecting Complexion Stick - £34

As a beauty writer, I have accumulated hundreds of beauty products and most get tried, tested, and eventually find themselves in my wider collection, but the has quickly earned a permanent spot in my daily makeup bag for its fast, fuss-free application, gorgeously glowy finish and impressive longevity.

Described as “not a foundation or a concealer, but something that’ll replace both,” this is so creamy, with a lightweight, hydrating feel. It looked like my skin but 10 times better, but it’s also really buildable if you’re looking for more coverage and blends effortlessly with barely any pressure.

Even without setting powder or touch-ups, at the end of the day my skin looks glowy rather than greasy. It also doesn’t settle into my fine lines or go patchy around the nose as many formulas often do. Plus the stick format is genius for targeted application and perfect for travel or on-the-go touch-ups.

At £34, it sits in the mid-luxury price point, but the amount of product you get makes it feel like solid value. Plus, it’s still cheaper than , which is £35, or .

Buy the .

No7 Future Renew Night Serum - £39.95

Having worked at Boots for five years and written about skincare for almost a decade, I’ve seen my fair share of beauty launches over the years. But none have captured the public’s imagination quite like No7 Future Renew. And this month, we’ve seen the join the line up of anti-ageing formulas - and I was

Starring the world-first super peptide blend, paired with niacinamide, Lindera Strychnifolia and chronotechnology, the formula promises to work while you sleep, in conjunction with our skin’s natural regeneration cycle, to deliver smoother, firmer and more radiant skin.

I applied the serum in secret for 10 weeks and in that time, it totally transformed my skin texture, delivering a radiant glow to my skin and calming my redness. I even noticed my fine lines, especially on my forehead, looking softer. However, I still think Vitamin A - such as , £69 - is the ultimate solution for deep lines.

River Island Black Sleeveless Spot Mix Ruffle Maxi Dress - £69

Over the weekend, Frankie Bridge tried on a number of pieces from River Island as part of her weekly ‘Faves’ series where she showcases her top fashion picks. And this the perfect choice for big summer events, from weddings to races and everything in between.

The frock features two types of polka dot patterns, a micro spot and a larger print, with a striking design that flatters the hips. Coming in at £69, it has a ruffle cap sleeve and V-neck making it great for warmer weather, with a maxi length skirt that lends itself beautifully to formal occasions.

It’s available in sizes 6-18, though due to what we dub the ‘Frankie effect’, now that the mum-of-two has been seen in the style, it’s likely to sell out quickly, with some sizes already out of stock.

Writing on Instagram, Frankie wrote: “One of our absolute faves this week. We LOVE the drama. Picture this at the races with a glass of champagne, or at a sunny wedding in Italy. Heaven. and this hat is the perfect match. You could also rewear for your holiday.”

Shop Frankie’s dress at River Island .

New Look Black Striped Co-Ord £22.99 and £29.99

I spent some time this week scouting out the and this was one of my favourite. It’s such a fun twist on the trend and the subtle crinkled texture and classic stripes make it easy to style up for smart casual moments - not to mention reduces the need for ironing. It buttons neatly and works especially well with denim or the matching trousers.

The wide-leg are soft, flowy, and can be styled up or down. The elasticated drawstring waistband is a dream for all-day wear. However, I did find the fit slightly on the smaller side, so consider sizing up if you're between sizes.

Another shopper echoed this in the reviews, commenting: “Lovely trousers, nice fabric. Can style up or down. Seems slightly on the smaller side, though.”

Buy the

Ashley Gingham Boat Neck Mini Dress - £69

I am loving gingham print at the moment. Not only is it chic and very on trend right now, but gingham print has a certain vintage feel to it that just makes an outfit adorable. And this , with its red and white chequered pattern, is going to be a hard-working piece in my summer wardrobe.

The Ashley dress features a classy crew neckline, mini length (for those hotter days), and sweet contrast button fastening all the way up. Plus, unlike many dresses of this same style, the back has a shirred, elasticated panel that makes it super comfortable and not too clingy on the waist and stomach - perfect for barbecues when you know you’ll be indulging.

Made from 97% organic cotton and 3% elastane, it’s breathable and slightly stretchy, adding to the comfort level. It’s also made with a cotton lining, so there’s no risk of your showing the world which undies you’re wearing that day. The only gripe is that it needs to be washed on a cold gentle cycle - meaning it can’t be bundled in with your other clothing that can withstand more heat, but that's not a major issue.

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Bohomoon Nalani Pearl Necklace - £30

Summer (on the horizon) calls for jewellery that embodies holidays and the ocean, in my opinion, and is a great, affordable accessory that’ll give you that ‘beach babe’ look without breaking the bank.

With seashells, a starfish and dainty pearl charms attached to a chunky chain, the necklace is a standout piece that’ll add character to your dinner dress or make your tan pop in your favourite bikini.

Made from tarnish free stainless steel, prides itself on creating waterproof jewellery that won’t get discoloured nor turn your skin a dreaded green - as someone with a handful of Bohomoon jewellery, I can attest this. It can be worn in the shower, pool, ocean, and beyond, which is always a bonus - especially on holiday when you want to be packing light.

With it being relatively new in, the necklace hasn’t got any reviews as of yet it’s clear that’s it’s a hit with shoppers are the silver design has sold out, with only gold left.

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Oliver Bonas Chequerboard Green & White Resin Rectangle Wall Mirror - £60

I love a bit of dopamine decor - the brighter, more fun, the better in my eyes. Oliver Bonas is such a good place if you want to add some character to your space, like this which is currently on sale for £60 down from £115.

With alternating green and white checks, the mirror is relatively large measuring at 60x40x2cm and weighing 5 kg. Handmade from green and white resin using an inlay technique, the mirror is a rectangular shape with rounded edges, for a soft finish.

It’s important to note that the mirror isn’t suitable for bathrooms or rooms with high humidity, but for living rooms, bedrooms and more it’s a cracking addition that’ll brighten up the space.

M&S Metal Rectangle Sunglasses - £15

During the spring and summer months, an outfit is never complete unless a pair of sunglasses (and a nice bag, of course) is added. While thin, oval shaped glasses have been gracing my Instagram feed as the 'it' sunglasses of the summer of late, I've been won over by a pair of more rectangular ones from , which cost £15 but look way more expensive.

The come with a gold metal frame which contrast the black lenses nicely. Their thinner, angular design harks back to 80s, 90s and early 00s trends, proving their timelessness. Having just launched at the popular British high street store, one five-star review of the glasses stands out, causing me to hit 'checkout': "Great pair of sunglasses. Stylish and well made. Needed a pair of gold sunglasses to wear with gold jewellery. Really elevates a simple outfit."

From pictures alone, the frames do look quite small so may be a little snug on those whose heads are a little more generously sized, however the free returns policy makes them easy to send back if you do have any sizing issues.