Lately, most conversations I have - be it with Uber drivers, colleagues or solo (ie me shouting inanely at the radio) - centre around the state of the world. But within that, I am still having many a chat about where to get a great facial (Tarryn Warren, QMS and Sarah Chapman are some faves), what exfoliator to use (Paula's Choice - easily one of the very best) and who, apart from MAC, does a great red lip (fancy pushing the boat out? Byredo, Westman Atelier and Hermès are sublime). And while, in light of everything happening around us, those conversations might seem trivial, these moments are necessary. Which is where Advent calendars come in. They are an absolute joy and an opportunity to discover lots of amazing products or indulge in great brands for much less (Liberty's for instance is worth £1,205, but sold at £260). And if you use the products sparingly, they might just last through the year. Which is, in my mind, a beautiful distraction.