Ema McLeary

Whether you're looking to get dolled up for a special occasion or just fancy spoiling yourself, Edinburgh has a variety of salons and beauticians ready to primp and pamper you. Here's a look at three places offering ways to get all spruced up. The Nail Yard Founded by Edinburgh-born Kirsty Maccormick, who has just recently returned to the city after spending time in Asia, this nail salon showcases her extensive knowledge of all things natural. She has a career spanning 26 years in the wellness, spa and beauty industry so you will be in safe hands (no pun intended). The salon features a range of all natural products from the likes of Kure Bazaar, Orly, Margaret Dabbs and Green & Spring, which most recently has only been found in London salons. Services on offer include natural nail polishes, pedicures and treatments for men, all using the least amount of chemicals possible. A signature manicure lasts approximately 45 minutes and you'll be treated to a fruity smoothie beforehand.  Don't forget to check out the amazing nail stamps that can be applied in any colour, and a printing machine for nails will soon be arriving - so if you fancy having your face printed onto your nails, this is the place to go! They also have a selection of quirky adult colouring books which are a therapeutic way of spending your time while getting a pedicure.  The Nail Yard, 38 Morningside Road, Edinburgh, EH10 4DA Zuri Zuri aims to give you the ultimate pampering experience, encouraging you to forget y

Planning a spring clean of your wardrobe? A pop-up 'swop shop' is coming to Edinburgh, giving you cash or store credit for your unwanted clothes. <img id="5d544276-f788-5702-4dd4-85b076c9056d" data-caption="Misty Mountain Swop" data-credit="https://instagram.com/mistymountainswop/" data-width-class="" align="middle" type="image/png" total="711180" loaded="711180" src="http://media.timeout.com/images/102424625/image.jpg" class="photo lazy inline">   Misty Mountain Swop, an ethical fashion exchange set up by vintage lover Alyssa, is holding its second event in May and invites you to buy, sell and trade clothing items and accessories. Just bring your unwanted (but still clean and undamaged) clothing and, if Alyssa and her team reckon it's got re-sale potential, they'll offer you cash at 35% of the sale price or 55% in store credit.  As the main focus of the event is on reducing the environmental impact of fast fashion, items which they choose not to buy can still be donated to charity on-site. So if you fancy refreshing your wardrobe and helping out the environment, or just getting hold of something new to wear for summer, head down to Misty Mountain Swop.  Misty Mountain Swop, Monday May 4-Sunday May 10, Gayfield Creative Spaces, 11 Gayfield Square, Edinburgh.  See more things to do in Edinburgh from Time Out.   

Vintage shopping has really taken over, especially on the high street. With all the vintage-inspired trends around, you sometimes have to work a little harder if you really want to stand out as an individual. Finding that hidden treasure is what it's all about. And if you're super-keen to get hold of rare items, the Vintage Kilo Sale can really come in handy. Combining value for money with on-trend styles from the 60s-80s, the Vintage Kilo Sale charges you based on the combined weight of your purchases instead of item-by-item, at a rate of £15 per kilo. Ema McLeary Bargain hunters can rummage through the tubs or rails of dresses, denim, blouses, shirts, jumpers, bags, boots, tees and trousers to find some of the most affordable vintage fashion in Edinburgh. It's not just a total free-for-all though, as music playing through the day contributes to the friendly retro atmosphere. The Vintage Kilo Sale will be in Edinburgh on February 21 and starts at 11am at the Out of the Blue Drill Hall. A large bag and a strong back are recommended! Find more things to do in Edinburgh with Time Out.