What September 2025 Brought to Illuminate by Beth

If you’re scrolling through our September archive, you’ll find a mix of fun facts, design inspiration and straight‑to‑the‑point home advice. We posted four pieces that each tackle a different corner of everyday life. Below is a quick walk‑through so you can pick up the bits that matter most to you.

British Slang Spotlight: Why a £25 Note Is Called a “Pony”

Our first post digs into the nickname "pony" for a twenty‑five‑pound note. It traces the term back to World War II, when soldiers used animal names to discuss cash without drawing attention. The article breaks down how the slang survived the post‑war era and why you still hear it in pubs today. If you ever wondered whether to use the word in conversation, the post gives you a ready‑made line you can drop without sounding pretentious.

Design Pulse: 2024 Bathroom Colour Trends

Next up, we summed up the top bathroom palettes that dominated 2024 – warm neutrals, sage greens and soft blues. Each colour is paired with suggested tile finishes and fixture styles, so you can visualize the whole look before buying. We even included a quick "copy‑the‑palette" formula: pick a main wall colour, add a complementary accent tile, and finish with brushed‑gold hardware for a luxe feel without breaking the bank.

For readers who love a tidy pantry, the third article asked the practical question: "Do people line shelves?" It lays out when shelf‑lining makes sense – like in damp kitchens or where you store spices – and when it’s overkill. We reviewed three common materials (clear PVC, cork and fabric‑backed contact paper) and gave a step‑by‑step guide that takes about 15 minutes. The cost breakdown is in British pounds, so you can budget instantly.

The final post tackled a bedroom nuisance: confusing XL labels on sheets and duvets. We clarified that XL can mean extra‑long or extra‑deep, depending on the brand and region (US, UK or NZ). A simple measurement chart lets you match your mattress depth to the right sheet size, eliminating those loose‑fitting fits. A quick tip at the end shows how to test a sheet before buying – just fold it in half and see if it reaches the corners.

All four pieces share a common goal: give you clear, usable information without the fluff. Whether you’re chatting about slang at the coffee shop, planning a bathroom refresh, organizing pantry shelves, or upgrading your bedding, the September archive has a short read that lands you with a concrete next step.

Looking ahead, we’ll keep serving up practical home tips, design trends and a few fun cultural nuggets. Bookmark the archive page, and swing back whenever you need a quick answer or a fresh idea for your living space.

Why Is 25 Pounds Called a Pony? Uncovering the British Slang Origin

Why Is 25 Pounds Called a Pony? Uncovering the British Slang Origin

Discover why a £25 note is called a "pony"-the history, wartime roots, and modern usage of this classic British slang term.

2024 Bathroom Color Trends: Warm Neutrals, Sage Greens, and Soft Blues

2024 Bathroom Color Trends: Warm Neutrals, Sage Greens, and Soft Blues

Warm neutrals, sage greens, and soft blues defined 2024 bathrooms. See real palettes, tile and material pairings, fixture finishes, and quick formulas you can copy.

Do People Line Shelves? When It’s Worth It, Best Materials, and How to Do It Right

Do People Line Shelves? When It’s Worth It, Best Materials, and How to Do It Right

Wondering if you should line shelves? Clear advice on when it helps, when it doesn’t, the best materials, NZ costs, and a simple how‑to that actually works.

What Does XL Mean in Bedding? Extra-Long vs Deep-Pocket Sizes Explained (US/UK/NZ)

What Does XL Mean in Bedding? Extra-Long vs Deep-Pocket Sizes Explained (US/UK/NZ)

Confused by “XL” on sheets and duvets? Learn if XL means extra-long or extra-deep, see size charts for US/UK/NZ, and get steps to measure your bed for a perfect fit.