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Charlotte Tilbury has shared her thoughts on the various beauty dupes of her iconic products and slams the alternatives for “duping the consumer” and “steal[ing] from your skincare”

Charlotte Tilbury spoke candidly about the rise of beauty dupes of the products from her celebrity-approved brand, Charlotte Tilbury Beauty.

The beauty CEO took to the Shameless Podcast to air her true thoughts about the alternatives, which are often cheaper that the original product. “When I look at some of the dupes out there, I get really upset,” she said. “As a creative, I want to empower the consumer.”

The 52-year-old, who’s brand is loved by Kate Moss, Naomi Campbell and Jennifer Lopez, said that when she’s examined the products with her “expert eye and tested with scientists,” she claims the dupes “will dehydrate your skin.”

READ MORE: Charlotte Tilbury’s ‘skin-blurring’ face base set is nearly 50% off in the brand’s summer sale

“They do everything I didn’t dream for them to do. Whether I wanted it to smooth [the skin] or not sit in any lines or pores or dehydrate your skin or steal from your skincare that you had on beforehand,” she expressed. “That for me was like no, that’s not what I want to do.”

Charlotte doubled down, explaining that she owns the formulas, intellectual property and technology of her brands’ formulas, therefore, “duping is basically trying to sell people something that it doesn’t do, they’re duping the consumer.”

However, not all listeners of the podcast were on side with Charlotte. Some took to the comments to share their views, with one writing: “Maybe she needs to realise the price with a struggling economy and a struggling society, that’s why people buy dupes because they can afford them.”

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Another commented on the “eyewatering” price of Charlotte’s products, adding: “Make it affordable then people won’t make or buy dupes. Some of the prices are eye watering.”

A third typed: “Maybe she should get herself in tune with the budget of the average woman which clearly isn’t her and make her products affordable then perhaps the dupes wouldn’t be so popular.”

What’s the deal with beauty dupes?

Cosmetify beauty editor Maria Mukaranda tells The Mirror that due to the rising cost of living, we’ve entered “a phase where almost any product, no matter how iconic or expensive, is open to being ‘duped’”. The trend is unsurprisingly driven by Gen Z, who refuse to gatekeep their hidden gems and see “discovering a dupe as something to celebrate rather than keep to themselves.”

“Spending £40 on a foundation or £60 on a serum isn’t realistic for many, so dupes give people the chance to try similar products without breaking the bank,” she adds.

But Maria explains that not all dupes are created equal. “A lower price doesn’t always mean lower quality, but it can be a risk if the formula or ingredients haven’t been properly tested. There are also concerns about overconsumption and the environmental impact of buying trend-led products just because they’re cheap.”

“It’s also worth noting that not every dupe is a direct copy. There are plenty of well-formulated alternatives on the market that don’t imitate packaging or branding, but still offer similar shades or skincare benefits at a more affordable price. These kinds of dupes can be a smart way to get the results you want without compromising on cost or quality.”

The countdown for Strictly Come Dancing has officially begun with fans speculating on who will be competing for the Glitterball trophy this year – this year will be the 23rd series of the BBC One dancing competition

Popular soap star Stefan Dennis has reportedly signed for the new series of Strictly Come Dancing.

The actor, 66, is best known for his role in Neighbours playing six-times married Ramsay Street lothario Paul Robinson since the first episode aired in 1985. But now Neighbours has officially wrapped with the cast filming their last day at Nunawading studios.

This chapter of the iconic Australian soap opera will be brought to a close in December 2025, celebrating over 40 years of entertainment, heart, and history. Amazon had previously saved the soap in 2022 with it returning the following year, but sadly the deal has now come to an end.

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The final episode of Neighbours was filmed at Nunawading Studios in Australia on Friday, and will air on Amazon Prime in December, which means Stefan is now free to take to the dancefloor this autumn.

A source told The Sun: “ Stefan is a huge character on the soap and is sure to be a hit with Strictly fans. BBC bosses are confident Stefan will bring in the ratings. He has made no secret of the fact that he would love to star on Strictly and will put his all into the training.”

Paul Robinson’s biggest storyline was in 2005 for the 20th anniversary when he was shoved from a mezzanine — leading to the “Who Pushed P.R?” mystery.

Cast members have been sharing their memories of the soap which recently turned 40, with Paul Robinson actor Stefan Dennis saying: “I never thought a single show would give me the greatest adventures of my career, spanning 40 years. Without Neighbours I would not have meet the people, been to the places and lived the experiences of a lifetime. Thank you all.”

Susan Kennedy actress Jackie Woodburne continued: “It’s impossible to measure the gratitude I feel for the gift of 30 years on Neighbours.

“To do so I would have to calculate the number of extraordinary cast and crew I have been privileged to work with, count the number of laughs I have shared with them, measure the pride I feel for the diverse, dramatic (and sometimes outrageous!) storytelling we have all been a part of.

“We are the best version of ‘family’. It has been a wild ride into a happy life. Wouldn’t change it for quids!”

Whatever Stefan goes on to do next in his TV career we’re sure his wife Gail Easdale, 52, and their three children will be bursting with pride.

The Mirror has contacted the BBC and Stefan’s representative for comment and at the time of publication had not responded.

Stuart Miles is barely-recognisable as the fresh-faced Blue Peter icon of the 90s, when he starred alongside names including Tim Vincent and Konnie Huq – and now has a new career

Stuart Miles famously quit Blue Peter after slamming the TV series for being “out of touch” with its young BBC viewers. It had been just three months since his friend and co-star Richard Bacon had been sacked for taking cocaine, and Stuart was arguing that children were no longer interested in sticky back plastic and pets.

“With the year 2000 nearly here we’ve got to make Blue Peter more relevant to modern-thinking children,” he said. “Less twee, more hard-hitting. I know it’s like a comfort blanket for a lot of people, a programme that will never shock or offend you, but we err on the side of caution.”

READ MORE: Forgotten Blue Peter and kids’ TV star Katy Hill looks unrecognisable after unusual career move

Then 27 years old, Stuart was, at the time, Blue Peter’s longest-serving presenter, with his exit coming as a huge blow to the corporation, who had been wrestling with the drug-taking expose of Richard Bacon and his replacement on the show.

But, 26 years later, what has become of Stuart?

He went on to guest-present shows including This Morning and Holiday and also became a regular on Sky Vegas, an interactive TV gambling channel. He went on to present a breakfast show for Heart FM alongside his former co-star, Katy Hill.

And in 2008, he launched a drag show at Edinburgh Fringe, The Adventures of Pink Peter, dressing up as Vera Singleton who was portrayed as sister of Valerie Singleton, one of the show’s early presenters.

A decade later, Stuart spoke about his regret over not coming out as gay during his time on Blue Peter. Speaking to Metro, he said: “I only have one regret and that is I spent a lot of my time on the show feeling conflicted about my sexuality. I was frightened of the reaction I may get both in the press and from the parents of children who watched the show if I came out as a gay man.

This may seem daft to someone growing up gay in 2018 but it’s easy to forget how, as little as 20 years ago, we were in a very different place.”

In fact, Blue Peter had sacked one of its presenters in 1985, Michael Sundin, with many claiming it was because of his sexuality. This was refuted by the show’s then-Editor, Biddy Baxter, who said it was simply that Michael was unpopular with viewers. He sadly died of an Aids-related illness in 1989.

Now aged 56, Stuart is barely recognisable from his Blue Peter days and also has a new career, as a professional speaker for Great British Speakers.

Just months ago, 66 year old Blue Peter itself received a huge shake-up, as its legendary live broadcasts were axed to make way for pre-recorded shows. Last year, former presenters Anthea Turner and Janet Ellis launched a bid to save the show when it was put out to tender.

READ MORE: Cat Deeley’s This Morning linen dress that ‘fits like a glove’ discounted with special code

Joining the long list of celebs getting glammed up for the tennis tournament, Emma Louise Connolly donned a white ‘suit of dreams’ that fans can still shop in all sizes

Shoppers keen to add a Wimbledon-inspired flair to their formal wear this summer should take note, as Emma Louise Connolly shares exactly where to shop for her all-white ensemble that she donned last week at the London sporting event.

Taking to Instagram to share where her suit was from, Emma revealed her Wimbledon ensemble was from Nadine Merabi. Emma paired the Charlotte White Trousers with the Nicola White Blazer, completing the look with a neutral plain t-shirt and an Aspinal Of London handbag in the same nude shade.

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The Charlotte White trousers worn by Emma at Wimbledon are the perfect piece for those daring to make a statement in an endlessly timeless style. Made from Nadine Merabi’s exclusive crepe and satin material, these simple statement trousers are perfect for all occasions, from rehearsal dinners to weddings to luxurious events like Wimbledon.

This piece also features seam detailing on the front of the trousers for a clean and understated finish. And these beauties don’t stop there, as they boast a contrast satin waistband and pocket detailing at the back, ensuring a flattering figure-hugging fit whether you wear them with or without a blazing. Coming in sizes XS to XXL, these trousers retail for £235 and come in a range of chic and bold colours.

For more wallet-friendly alternatives, ASOS stocks these ASOS DESIGN co-ord Ponte structured in ivory for £28, while Flannels is currently offering this ODD MUSE The Ultimate Muse Straight Leg Trousers for the reduced price of £32. And for those that don’t mind splashing a bit more cash, Club L London has these Carina White Flared-Leg Tailored Trousers for £75.

When it comes to the crown jewel of Emma’s outfit, the Nicola White Blazer is Merabi’s answer to modern tailoring. Crafted from their signature crepe fabric and fully lined in satin for a smooth, refined fit, this blazer is designed with a cinched waist and padded shoulders for a structured and flattering fit on all body types.

This blazer features exposed seam detailing through the front and back for a sculpted, contemporary finish, and comes complete with statement gold cross-detail snap fastenings at the front and non-functional cross buttons at the cuffs for a chic and ornate twist on the otherwise simplistic style. Available in sizes XS to XXL and coming in black or white, this blazer retails for £355.

Today’s horoscope for July 13 sees one star sign works on their attitude, as another stays cautious.

It’s Sunday, July 13, and one star sign prioritises creativity, as another trusts their intuition.

There are 12 zodiac signs – Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, and Pisces – and the horoscopes for each can give you the lowdown on what your future holds, be it in work, your love life, your friends and family or more.

These daily forecasts have been compiled by astrologer Russell Grant, who has been reading star signs for over 50 years. From Aries through to Pisces, here’s what today could bring for your horoscope – and what you can do to be prepared.

Aries (Mar 21 – Apr 20)

It’s impossible to make everyone happy, as you have learned the hard way recently. Just carry out your work and responsibilities as best you can and live by the standards you have set for yourself. Staying true to yourself is what you should aim for now.

Taurus (Apr 21 – May 21)

Take it easy if you get the chance to do so. Avoid starting anything new. Your aim should now be to keep current projects on schedule. If someone tries to persuade you to launch a new venture, decline the offer. Take care of what needs to be done then relax.

Gemini (May 22 – June 21)

Your bargaining abilities are particularly strong now. Take this opportunity to secure an excellent deal. A joint agreement can work in your favour. Think about using any unexpected gains or bonuses to settle debts or invest in something you really need.

Cancer (June 22 – July 23)

Discussing new living arrangements with housemates or your family will lead to some practical agreements. This is a good time to check out what is on the market if you have been thinking about buying or renting a new home. You will find the perfect place that feels just right for you.

Leo (July 24 – Aug 23)

Your mind is focused on finances. You may need to ease up a little and explore opportunities to earn some extra cash. You have some unique talents and this could lead you to thinking about starting a home business. Also, cutting back on travel could save your company some money.

Virgo (Aug 24 – Sept 23)

Avoid fad diets. You know what is right for your body and this is what you should be focusing on. Include plenty of fruit and vegetables in your meals. You might enjoy delicious citrus fruits and tasty foods that are both nourishing and healthy for you.

Libra (Sept 24 – Oct 23)

You’re showing a lot of kindness and a willingness to help those who are struggling. Even so, although it’s great to feel useful, dedicating all your free time to them is a different story. You may have to start setting some boundaries.

Scorpio (Oct 24 – Nov 22)

New ideas and possibilities are being explored. Making new plans spontaneously will be a lot of fun. Trust your intuition. A housemate will have some good advice to offer. A neighbour needs some practical assistance. You’re putting other people’s needs over your own and you won’t mind this in the least.

Sagittarius (Nov 23 – Dec 21)

Everything runs smoothly until someone’s grumpy behaviour or curt remarks spoil all this good feeling. A change of scenery would do you good even if this happens later in the day. In fact, travelling in the evening will provide a refreshing change.

Capricorn (Dec 22 – Jan 20)

When you receive an offer from someone you hardly know, no matter how great it sounds, you will be a little wary. Staying cautious is wise as there could be some hidden conditions tied to this proposition. Ask for more time to think about it.

Aquarius (Jan 21 – Feb 19)

Getting along with friends and neighbours won’t be that difficult if you let the charming side of your personality shine through. Keep your attitude positive especially if you are planning on asking someone for a favour. Being grumpy won’t help you get what you want.

Pisces (Feb 20 – Mar 20)

In moments of stillness and meditation, inspiration will strike. This could lead you to creating something wonderful. A creative thought could manifest as a tangible project or inspire you to spend more time developing a talent. Make this a priority.

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