Interview: A Place In the Sun’s Leah Charles King
As our favourite face on our favourite property programme, Leah knows a thing or two about looking good on the go. So, if your two weeks away has left you battling a bulging suitcase, take note, because we’ve convinced Leah to spill on her travel essentials. And no, you do not need 10 pairs of shoes…
Keep make-up minimal
Charlotte Tilbury Air Brush Flawless Finish Setting Spray (£32)
“You need less make-up than you think when away; but there are a few staples I always take. I swear by DCYPHER Beauty My Custom Foundation (£39) as it’s a bespoke blend created to match my skin tone perfectly. I also love Fenty Beauty Set It Down Superfine Blurring Setting Powder (£25) to combat shine, and Charlotte Tilbury Air Brush Flawless Finish Setting Spray (£32) which keeps make-up in place all day.”
Travel frizz is a no
Charlotte Mensah Manketti Hair Oil (£52)
“What I take to keep my locks looking great depends on what hairstyle I’m rocking, but one thing I always pack is a product with anti frizz ingredients to avoid sun damage to my hair, as well as providing it with nutrients. At the moment, my go-to is Charlotte Mensah Manketti Hair Oil (£52) which is a fabulous multi-tasker.”
Always use protection
Avon Skin So Soft Original Dry Oil (£8)
“I’m careful to protect my skin in the sun and Shades of Melanin is an amazing brand I can’t do without. Black girls need sunscreen too! I also hate getting bitten by mozzies, so reach for the strong stuff: Lifesystems Expedition MAX DEET Mosquito Repellent (£7.99). Then at bedtime, when I want something softer I use Avon Skin So Soft Original Dry Oil (£8). It smells gorgeous!”
Nail the wardrobe
Lipsy Multi Printed Beach Cover-Up Playsuit (£38)
“I have family homes on both Grenada and Saint Lucia, which I’ve visited since childhood. I escape there whenever I can, so when case space is at a premium, there’s a few bits and pieces I fall back on. A leopard print scarf is a must, whether I use it to cover my hair or wear as a sarong or a scarf. I also keep my beachwear pretty simple. I love high-waisted, wide-leg bikini bottoms as they cover a multitude of sins, then I just toss in a matching bikini top and colourful cover-up dress.”
Pack a playlist
Anker Power Bank (£34.99)
“Music helps me pass the time when waiting around at airports. I love listening to anything old school, from R&B, to pop, hip hop and soul. I guess my music taste is really eclectic – just as long as it’s pre-2010! I also keep my devices charged when out and about with an Anker Power Bank (£34.99), as they’re really reliable.”
Think of home
Acqua Di Parma Home Fragrances Oud Candle 200g (£48.50)
“A few simple touches can make hotel rooms seem more homely, so I always bring a scented candle or incense sticks with me: amber, sandalwood and oud fragrances are my current faves. I also can’t travel without my portable clothes steamer. What can I say? I’m rock and roll!”
Carry your fave scent
The Saltworks Company Travel Bottle (£25)
“I’m not really one to shop for scent at the airport, so I take the perfume I love handy to freshen up. I adore anything by The Saltworks Company – my top picks are Oud Bazaar, Tabac Soleil and Powder Ballad (£25 each). They’re a British company who offer unique luxury scents in travel sizes too, as there’s nothing worse than having your latest perfume taken off you at Customs.”
Accept jetlag
Awakened: Her Reality: Her Power: Her Destiny (£18.99)
“I’ve tried all sorts of things to beat feeling rubbish in different time zones, but am yet to find the secret formula. If I can’t sleep, I might pick up a book. I recently bought Awakened, the debut novel by Kelechi Okafor. It’s a dystopian story, so I’m not sure if it is helping me get any sleep!”
Get comfy
“Finally, you will never find me flying long-haul without taking a nice fluffy pillow. I’ve tried plenty – and the tiny ones they give you on the plane just don’t cut it. A girl needs to relax, after all…”
Leah’s new YouTube channel, Legacy Through the Lens, launches in October to coincide with the 25th anniversary and brand new series of A Place in the Sun.
