Ever wondered what everyday items celebrities purchase, where they source their groceries, or which basics they choose to save on? In an exclusive interview, bestselling author and television personality Dawn O'Porter opens up about her personal shopping habits, favourite beauty products, and daily essentials. Having recently moved back to the UK from Los Angeles with her family, Dawn shares insights into her lifestyle, from fabulous kaftans to high-tech skincare devices.
Skincare Regimen and Luxury Purchases
Dawn O'Porter describes good skin as an obsession, detailing a comprehensive routine that includes diet, supplements, and topical treatments. "I have never had so many compliments on my skin as in the last few months," she remarks, though she acknowledges the difficulty in pinpointing the exact cause. Among her prized possessions is the Lyma laser, a high-end red light device she uses nightly. "It's a really strong red light laser. I hold it to different parts of my face for three minutes every single night," she explains, noting that it has reduced her need for Botox injections around the eyes. However, she admits the £1,999 price tag is a significant investment.
Everyday Shopping and Food Habits
When it comes to grocery shopping, Dawn prefers a mix of local independent health food stores and larger supermarkets like Waitrose or Marks & Spencer. She emphasises her love for discovering unique food brands, particularly at Trindle Stores near Kew Gardens station, which she praises for its excellent coffee and charming seating area. Despite enjoying in-person shopping, Dawn confesses to relying heavily on deliveries due to time constraints, though she often finds that essential items are missing from her orders.
Fashion Favourites and Regrets
Dawn's fashion choices reflect a blend of comfort and style. She adores kaftans from Fumbalinas, describing the online store as a "mecca of fabulous kaftans" and her personal version of a candy shop. For footwear, she turns to Esska for cute and comfortable shoes. However, not all purchases meet her expectations; she expresses regret over buying numerous pairs of jeans that never quite suit her shape. "I see other women look so great in them, so I buy them and never wear them," she admits.
Beauty and Makeup Essentials
In the beauty department, Dawn is an avid collector of foundations, eyeshadows, and nude lip glosses. Her go-to brands include Charlotte Tilbury and Victoria Beckham, with a special fondness for Jones Road foundation. For everyday scrimping, she criticises the eyebrow industry as a scam, opting instead to use dark brown eyeshadow on her brows. "I refuse to buy a product specifically for them," she states firmly. Additionally, she buys dark brown eyeliners on repeat, highlighting their importance in her makeup routine.
Gadgets, Gifts, and Personal Treats
Beyond skincare, Dawn values practical gadgets and meaningful gifts. She received a Peloton bike for her 40th birthday, which helps manage her "middle-age spread." As a thoughtful present, she once gifted a friend a tattoo voucher to commemorate the birth of a child. For personal treats, she recently indulged in Frøya face cream after persistent Instagram ads, and she enjoys using a French press with homemade almond milk for her daily coffee.
Budget Buys and Splurges
When asked about spending, Dawn reveals that most of her money goes towards food and skincare. For a £20 budget, she would purchase a quality nail file to use while brainstorming writing ideas. With £200, she would splurge on makeup items. Her saved searches on platforms like eBay and Vinted include high-waisted vintage circle skirts with novelty prints, showcasing her love for unique fashion finds. One of her greatest vintage discoveries is a white Ossie Clark dress with a Celia Birtwell print.
Dawn O'Porter's shopping habits offer a glimpse into the life of a celebrity who balances luxury indulgences with practical choices. From skincare obsessions to favourite local shops, her insights provide inspiration for readers looking to refine their own shopping routines. Her latest novel, Honeybee, is published by HarperCollins, further cementing her status as a multifaceted creative force in the UK.
