Sabrina, Author at The Beauty Look Book

Summer Sunscreens To Put On Your Radar

July 21, 2022

By popular request I have my summer sunscreen roundup with all the formulas I’ve tried and loved recently! I have mainly used formulas from Supergoop!, Shiseido and Chanel but finally put more formulas to the test. My skin is very sensitive to extreme heat and sunscreen so I test with extreme caution. Here is what I’ve tried and thoughts. Up first are formulas for the body!

Sunscreens for the Body

Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Lotion with SPF 50 ($25 to $65, Bloomingdale’s, Sephora, Ulta Beauty)

Active Ingredients: Avobenzone 2.3% Sunscreen Homosalate 10.0% Sunscreen Octisalate 5.0% Sunscreen Octocrylene 5.0% Sunscreen

This is my all-time favorite sunscreen for the body. It’s the best I’ve tried that has a velvety dry down, longest lasting even in water and easy to spread even over wet skin (although I recommend applying on dry skin). It also helps protect against heat. It’s also formulated to use on the face but I use this one only on the body, neck, arms, legs. Love this value duo at Sephora.

Supergoop! Glowscreen Body SPF 40 ($42, Sephora, Nordstrom, Supergoop!)

Active Ingredients: Avobenzone 2.3% Sunscreen Homosalate 10.0% Sunscreen Octisalate 5.0% Sunscreen Octocrylene 5.0% Sunscreen

I’ve loved and used this formula since the day it launched (have also repurchased numerous times). It has superfine light reflecting particles (it’s smooth, no chunky texture) and adds the prettiest shimmer and to the skin. Love that it’s smooth and hydrating.

Revive Soleil Superiéur SPF 50 ($165, Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Bluemercury)

Active Ingredients: Avobenzone 3% Sunscreen Homosalate 10% Sunscreen Octisalate 5% Sunscreen Octocrylene 2.6%

This was one of my latest splurges – for me it was hard to find as it was almost always sold out but seems to be back in stock a few places. It’s one of the most expensive sunscreens I’ve tried and it is pure love. It glides on the skin smoothly. Has an anti-oxidant complex to nourish and hydrate the skin. Has a very subtle sunscreen scent which smells like summer to me. Love that it has a pump applicator. There is also a Soleil Superieur face version which I’ve used and loved before but it’s also quite expensive.

Vacation Inc. Classic Lotion SPF 30 ($18, Nordstrom, Ulta Beauty, Vacation Inc.)

Active Ingredients: Avobenzone (2.5%), Homosalate (10%), Octisalate (5%), Octocrylene (8%)

This formula wins for the best scent. It has a nice smooth application. No pilling. Smells like a fun summer vacation. I love how the formula wears and performs. Two things though: I do wish it had a higher SPF and it doesn’t apply well on wet skin. If you’re in the water or super sweaty you will need to towel off before applying otherwise it doesn’t adhere. It has coconut oil, aloe vera, banana extract, Vitamin E and Niacinamide.

Jack Black Oil-Free Sun Guard SPF 45 ($21, Jack Black, Nordstrom, Bloomingdale’s, Sephora, Ulta Beauty)

Active Ingredients: Octinoxate 7.5%, Octisalate 3.0%, Zinc Oxide 8%

This formula is Andrew’s favorite and the only body sunscreen he uses. It’s the longest lasting even in water and with sweat. It’s one I order in bulk because Andrew goes through so much. Anytime we have guests in town we give them a bottle of this Jack Black formula (or Supergoop!) to use while they’re here because it’s the best at protecting skin and preventing sunburns.

It’s also available in 3-Pack of Minis at Jack Black. The only downside is that it’s so effective it is very hard to remove at the end of the day. You’ll have to give your body multiple scrubs with a washcloth or sponge. I’ll sometimes have to use a cleansing oil all over and let it sit to break down the formula before using a regular body wash. Andrew’s favorite is the Jack Black Turbo Wash (which I also borrow from time to time). The Big Sir Body and Hair Cleanser is also pretty good.

If you’re looking for the men in your life to up their grooming game, I highly recommend Jack Black. They have some good starter sets. I’ve bought this for Andrew, his brother, my brother, etc.

Sun Care Face Formulas

For the face I have stuck with a very small select group of formulas for the past three years. I am very sensitive to heat and sunscreen. With the wrong formula my face often reacts with red spots and flare ups when exposed to extreme heat. I still get review requests every week to review/test different formulas from you! This year I finally branched out and tried more after careful research and am thrilled to report that I have some new winners.

I’ve loved and used La Roce-Posay for a long time. It’s one that most of you love and use too. Three formulas I started using recently include the following:

The Anthelios Ultra-Light SPF 60* ($30.99) has a lightweight texture and semi-matte finish. It’s a white fluid but has no white cast on my skin. Active Ingredients: Avobenzone 3%, Homosalate 10%, Octisalate 5% and Octocrylene 7%.

The Anthelios Mineral Tinted SPF 50* ($34.99) is an excellent mineral formula I actually like and love. I find most mineral formulas don’t work for my skin type with the texture, but this is a really good one with a brown-beige tint. It disappears into the skin. Active Ingredient is Titanium Dioxide 11%.

The Anthelios Melt-In-Milk SPF 60* ($24.99 to $36.99, face & body, chemical sunscreen) is a great formula for the body. 100% recommend. Has a high SPF, melts into the skin, absorbs quickly. Active Ingredients: Avobenzone 3%, Homosalate 10%, Octisalate 5% and Octocrylene 7%. See them in action below!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Sabrina | beautylookbook (@beautylookbook)

Two other mineral formulas that I like are the Tatcha Silk Sunscreen SPF 50 ($60) and the Summer Fridays Shade Drops Mineral Milk Sunscreen SPF 30 ($36). I bought both from Sephora and absolutely love how they melt into the skin and don’t feel heavy or pill.

The Tatcha formula works under makeup nicely and it has a velvety feel. The packaging could use a bit of work as the product sometimes will squirt out of the top once you open it. I haven’t had any flaking issues that you see online (not yet). This is more fluid in texture compared to their Silken Pore Perfecting Sunscreen with SPF 35.

The Summer Fridays formula is a really nice one I found works with me. Reviews seem to be mixed – definitely try a patch test first. I don’t think it’s the best long-wear formula if you’re outside for an extended period of time.

The Chanel UV Essentiel SPF 50 ($55) and CC Cream ($55) have been in my top picks for years. I love the ultra lightweight texture of the UV Essentiel and I don’t sweat a lot on my face so this works for me (it didn’t work for Andrew, he sweats more). Active Ingredients: Octinoxate 7.5%, Titanium dioxide 3.8%, Zinc oxide 17.1%.

My most-worn sunscreen is the Chanel CC Cream with SPF 50. It’s a tinted product with medium coverage and wears so well on my skin. Lasts all day. It is on the semi-thick side so application is key. It’s not one I recommend applying with fingers. Use a sponge to work it into the skin and blend. This method works best for me when applying any CC cream. So many of you have told me you have kept referring to my review from 2018!

Active Ingredients: Active ingredients: Octinoxate 6.8%, Titanium dioxide 4%, Zinc oxide 15.2%

Supergoop! is one of my favorite brands for sunscreens in general. I love all of their chemical formulas and one mineral. My recommendation for formula would be based on your skin type and preference. Each one has a different texture and purpose.

Out of all the Supergoop formulas I love the Every.Single.Face Watery Lotion SPF 50* and the CC Screen SPF 50 the most. The CC Screen is an excellent tinted option with pretty good coverage. The Daily Dose Vitamin C SPF 40 is a great option and the Unseen SPF 40 is one of the best matte finish formulas I’ve tried.

Biossance Squalane + Zinc Sheer Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30* ($30 to 42) was one of the highest rated/most loved formulas from you based on messages I received on social. So many of you love this skincare line and after finally trying it this year I 100% agree. No white cast on me (although there is a very subtle white tint), no pilling, lasts on the skin. Definitely reapply every hour (as with all formulas) but love that it’s not sticky or goopy and it doesn’t have any smell or weird sunscreen scent.

The last two I wanted to highlight are the Shiseido Urban Environment Fresh-Moisture Sunscreen SPF 42 ($38, Bloomingdale’s) and Urban Environment Sun Dual Care Oil-Free Broad Spectrum SPF 42 Sunscreen ($35, Nordstrom, Sephora).

Both are great formulas for the face. The Shiseido Urban Environment Fresh-Moisture Sunscreen has a beautiful hydrating feel. It’s formulated with hyaluronic acid to help retain moisture. Leaves the skin feeling smooth and slightly plump. It has enough moisture that I can use this as a moisturizer.

Active Ingredients: Avobenzone 2.3%, Homosalate 10.0%, Octisalate 5.0%, Octocrylene 5.0%.

The Shiseido Urban Environment Sun Dual Care Oil-Free Sunscreen is also a recent winner. It has a more fluid thin texture with a velvety dry down. Super lightweight, long lasting, has a slight pale peachy pink tint when you apply it on the skin but disappears after blending.

Active Ingredients: Ensulizole 1.0%, Homosalate 15.0%, Octisalate 5.0%, Zinc Oxide 15.5%

There is also a Mineral Version of this formula but I have not tried it.

That wraps up my summer sunscreen roundup! I would recommend any of these to anyone. If I had to pick my absolute top favorites, these are my top 6:

Best Body Sunscreen: Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Lotion tied with Revive Soleil Superier
Best Long-Wear Formula: Jack Black Oil-Free Sun Guard
Favorite Sunscreen for the Face (with tint): Chanel CC Cream
Favorite Non-Tinted Face Formula: Tatcha
Favorite Hydrating Sunscreen for the Face: Shiseido Urban Environment Fresh-Moisture Sunscreen

What are your go-to sunscreen formulas?

Press samples have a * next to them. All other formulas purchased and frequently repurchased by me.

0 Comments

Beauty Favorites Nordstrom Skincare

Summer Skincare Saviors

July 18, 2022

It’s been a while since I’ve done a skincare roundup and with summer in full swing I have an updated routine with my favorites for clean and clear skin. With the heat, sunscreen and extra sweat my skin is prone to getting clogged and irritated. If you also experience the same issues during the summer, I have my current go-to’s I swear by from Nordstrom. These are my favorites to help clear out the pores and keep skin looking fresh!

Cleansers

Long time readers know I’m a fanatic about cleansing my skin. Keeping skin super clean and making sure I remove all traces of sunscreen and makeup at the end of the day is essential but with long wear makeup formulas it can be tricky. I rotate cleansers and use different formulas for morning vs afternoon.

Using a good makeup remover whether it’s a cleansing balm or cleansing oil is always a must. It helps break down foundation, concealer, blush etc.

I really love the Chanel Sublimage L’Huile En-Gel De Demaquillage Gel-To-Oil Cleanser ($110). I love it because it’s less messy than a regular liquid oil. The gel melts right into the skin and has that signature Sublimage scent (obsessed!). It makes the skin feel super soft and smooth and clean!

For a good cleansing oil I am currently loving the Chanel L’Huile Anti-Pollution Cleansing Oil ($50, on my third bottle) and the Bobbi Brown Soothing Cleansing Oil ($53) is a classic I’ve repurchased multiple times too.

For my second step cleanser I love a wide range of brands but right now am rotating between the Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Wash ($52) and Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser ($23). Both are really good for cleansing the skin without stripping it.

Toners

I always follow with a toner to help rebalance the skin and make sure all traces of cleanser and makeup are removed. My two go-to’s right now are from Kiehls and Sisley. The Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Toner ($12 – $20) helps moisturize the skin and refine texture. I also swear by the Sisley Balancing Floral Toning Lotion ($115) which is the best alcohol-free formula I’ve used.

For texture and resurfacing, the Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Pads ($59) have been the best resurfacing pads I’ve tried. There’s no stinging, no uncomfortable residue, and really works for smoother skin. You can use these daily but I use them 2x per week.

Pore Cleaning Masks

To keep the pores clear and clean I use Glamglow. The Glamglow Supermud Clearing Treatment ($25-86) is one I cannot live without (Value Set for $69 here). Anytime I feel like pimples or clogged pores are surfacing I use this and it’s the most effective AHA and BHA acid mask for problem skin. Charcoal helos absorb excess oil and toxins. Apply a thin layer and leave it on for 5-20 minutes (I usually leave it on for 10). Rinse thoroughly.

I also really love charcoal based masks/cleansers and the Glamglow SUPERCLEANSE Clearing Cream-to-Foam-Cleanser ($32) and SUPERSMOOTH Acne Clearing 5-Minute Mask ($34) are essential for my summer routine. Both are gentle enough for me to use daily but I usually have these in rotation 2-3x per week. Andrew loves these too. They’re great to absorb excess oil without stripping the skin.

If you have ultra sensitive skin the Kiehl’s Rare Earth Deep Pore Cleansing Mask Set ($40, NSALE) is the best gentle pore mask I’ve tried.

Moisturizer Routine

I rotate with oils and moisturizers but really love the Sisley Black Rose Skin Infusion Cream ($220) right now. It’s the perfect lightweight moisturizer for a fresh glow. I use this as a first layer then add the Sisley Double Tenseur Moisturizing Gel ($210) on top for my perfect smooth base. They’re quite the splurge but there’s nothing quite like either!

For eye treatments I love the Sisley Black Rose Eye Contour Fluid ($165). It’s another expensive buy but 100% worth the splurge if you want a really nice lightweight eye cream. Right now Nordstrom has the Black Rose Set for the Anniversary Sale which has the full size cream, eye fluid and mini black rose mask ($230 on sale, $415 value).

La Mer is always a nice luxurious treat. I splurged on the La Mer Luminous Renewal Set ($95) from the NSALE which has travel sizes of the Cleansing Foam, The Treatment Lotion, Renewal Oil and Moisturizing Soft Cream. If you have dry skin they also have this set with the regular Crème de la Mer in the Radiant Hydration Set (also $95).

The last thing I wanted to highlight is a new try! La Mer recently launched The Micro Peel ($270). It is a leave-on resurfacing peel treatment with AHAs, BHAs and PHAs to polish the skin and clear pores. I just started using it at night 1x to 2x per week. It has a bi-phase formula so you shake the bottle to activate the formula and mix contents. Use on clean skin and don’t rinse. You can add moisturizer on top if you want but I’ve been applying it on its own. It has a minimal tingle and I really like it so far. Will keep you posted as I can test more!

Sunscreen is also a very important part of my summer skincare routine but I’ve saved that for a future post (coming very soon!).

You can find all of my picks available at Nordstrom.

Shop the Post

Many thanks to Nordstrom for partnering to sponsor this post. As always all opinions are my own. All products purchased by me.

0 Comments

Beauty Favorites

Summer Luxury Beauty Staples Worth the Splurge

July 15, 2022

Summer is in full swing and I’m excited to share a look at some of my favorite luxury beauty staples this season from Neiman Marcus. They have so many of my all-time favorites, I’ve restocked on a few favorites from them for an upcoming trip! I’m excited to share a look at some of my tried-and-true beauty staples today. They’re having their Summer Beauty Gift with Purchase Event going on now through 7/22!

The La Mer Face Mist is the ultimate skin refresher to hydrate the face with a soothing veil of hydration. It has a lovely cooling sensation on the skin with a fresh and relaxing scent. I love bringing face mists on travels with me and this one is coming with me on vacation.

I’m obsessed with trying all kinds of lip balms and a tried-and-true staple of mine is the La Mer Lip Volumizer. It’s a lip serum with a plumping effect but I love this as a lip balm. Makes the lips feel smooth, hydrated and lush. I often wear this as a night time lip mask.

I’ve owned a few smaller Mason Pearson brushes for over a decade and can say they’re 100% worth the splurge. I had been eyeing the full-sized Popular Mix Brush and it finally popped back in stock at Neimans and I snapped one up immediately. It’s now currently on backorder, but I highly recommend it. It has a mix of bristle and nylon and works to stimulate the scalp, brush hair in way I’ve never seen in any brush and gives the hair a super smooth look.

I like to have a hair clip or scrunchie on hand so I can tie my hair up when I’m on vacation. I splurged on the Balmain Hair Couture Medium Hair Clip and it’s a beautiful one! It’s the perfect size and exactly what I was looking for.

If I had to pick one lip product to wear this summer it would be the Hermes Hermesistible Infused Lip Care Oils. I love every single color, but my two favorite shades are Beige Sapotil (one I’m wearing in this post) and Corail Bigarade. They are each scented with a unique scent. The formula is nourishing and I love the tint.

Out of all the bronzers on the market I would have to say my most worn bronzer is the Tom Ford Soleil Glow Bronzer in Gold Dust (I also like Terra for a lighter neutral cool-toned option). It has a soft almost gel to powder formula that adheres to the skin. Looks super natural and is the best way to warm up the complexion for a soft bronzed glow. My favorite bronzer brush is the one from Laura Mercier.

The last splurge I wanted to highlight is the Cle de Peau Cream Blush. I have loved and used this formula for quite some time and just splurged on Shade #3. It’s a really lovely bright peach that brings the complexion to life. A little goes a long way and this cream formula is one of the few that I truly love.

If you’re looking for some summer staples I hope you found this roundup helpful! Neiman Marcus is also having their Summer Gift With Purchase Event now through 7/22. Spend $150 or more for an assortment of beauty samples and a step up gift with a purchase of $200 or more. Here’s a peek below.

You can find all of my staples at Neiman Marcus.

Shop the Post

Many thanks to Neiman Marcus for partnering to sponsor this post. As always all opinions are my own.

0 Comments

Haircare

Two Ways To Use the ghd Platinum+ 1 Inch Styler

July 12, 2022

The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is in full swing right now and one of my favorite hair styling tools is part of the sale for their Beauty Exclusives! I was recently able to test out the ghd Platinum+ 1” Styler and it’s my new holy grail styling tool for getting a smooth sleek look. It’s a versatile tool that you can also use to curl your hair. Available in Black and White on sale for $187 (33% off, normally $279).

I’m excited to share a closer look demo of how to use ghd Platinum+ Styler. After having tested so many brands of heat tools over the years I can say this one is my favorite for straightening!

The ghd Platinum+ Styler is a 1-inch flat iron set at one temperature of 365 degrees fahrenheit. I’ve always used tools with multiple heat settings but learned that ghd has scientifically proven this is the optimum temperature for long lasting style that will also keep hair healthy with the least amount of damage. It will keep your color protected and hair healthy too. The temperature is at the right temperature for effective styling so you can style your hair sections in a single pass.

ghd calls this tool their “ultimate smart styler” because it has “ultra-zone technology.” Sensors are active across both plates and they monitor the heat 250x per second to ensure the temperature remains consistent depending on your hair thickness and the speed at which you use the styler.

I love that it heats up quickly (in 20 seconds), has an automatic shut off mode after 30 minutes and has a wishbone hinge which makes it easy to hold and use. The plates are gloss coated so they glide along the hair easily – no tugging or snagging.

Look 1: Sleek and Smooth

For a smooth, sleek and shiny hair look I first spritz on a heat protectant on dry hair. I tried the ghd Bodyguard Heat Protect Spray ($25) and really like it! It dispenses an ultra-fine mist and coats the hair evenly with a few spritzes. I like that it’s light enough in finish that it doesn’t weight the hair down at all.

Spritz and comb through, then straighten hair in small sections. Below is a look at the finished result! Most people think I have naturally smooth shiny hair but it’s not the case at all. I have thick unruly frizz prone hair. It takes a lot of work and product to keep it looking smooth. This straightener makes styling my hair so much easier.

Look 2: Curls

You can also use the ghd Platinum+ Styler to curl the hair. I usually wear my hair straight whether it’s air dried, blow dried or straightened. I had quite a few mishaps with curling irons in the past which usually resulted me burning my forehead and fingers (even with gloves). A few tools I’ve tried have been so hot they fried my hair off. The ghd Platinum+ Styler has been perfect for someone like me. It has a rounded edge around the plates and they act like a buffer so there’s no contact with skin (no forehead burns, yay!). I can also hold the outside tip without getting burned. The hinge is easy enough to clamp and close around the hair that you don’t need to hold the end but sometimes it’s nice to – especially if you want to do a back and forth for an almost crimped-like beach wave.

To curl I section and clip hair up to curl in layers and sections. I hold the tool upside down and loop sections around the iron away from the face. Once looped just clamp and slowly drag the tool through the hair to the ends. An angled hold and faster speed will give me looser more natural looking curls.

Curls last all day with this tool, even in this Florida humidity although they do relax slightly as time goes on (which I actually like for a more lived-in look).

I really love the ghd Platinum+ Styler! I plan on taking it with me on every trip from now on. You can find it on sale at Nordstrom for the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale now through July 31st. Available in both black and white for $187. I highly recommend checking it out!

Shop the Post

Many thanks to ghd and Nordstrom for partnering to sponsor this post. As always all opinions are my own.

0 Comments

Nordstrom Sales

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Beauty Haul

July 11, 2022

Today I have a roundup of what I checked out from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Beauty Exclusives! I was happy to find some good deals and sales, but like most of you, was a little disappointed that the newness was limited. I was hoping for some new pretty palettes, new colors, innovative formulas but most of the makeup items were repeats of existing items packaged into sets.

That being said I do think there are still some great deals to be found. If you’ve had your eye on a simplehuman mirror, ghd flat iron, or T3 hair dryer it’s a great time to save. Or if you’re new to luxury beauty and wanted to try some popular colors like the Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk or Westman Atelier there are some nice bundles!

Charlotte Tilbury

Charlotte Tilbury launched a number of Pillow Talk sets. The Pillow Talk lipstick is one of my favorite go-to lip colors. The Pillow Talk Lip Kit ($59, value is $92) has full sizes of the Matte Revolution Lipstick, Hyaluronic Happikiss Lipstick and Lip Cheat Lip Pencil. It’s a pretty good deal and makes for a nice gift!

Hyaluronic Happikiss in Pillow Talk + the Eye Pencil Duo and Cheek Products

Matte Revolution in Pillow Talk

The Pillow Talk Cheeks Set ($54, retail value is $80) has a full-size Pillow Talk Beauty Light Wand and Cheek to Chic Blush. Both are beautiful everyday staples you can wear year round.

I also picked up the Pillow Talk Eye Shadow Pencil Duo ($35, retail is $58). I love the Colour Chameleon pencils and really love the colors in this kit. The Pillow Talk shade is a gorgeous shimmery pink and the deeper color is a nice plum. Lasting power is really good once these set (recommend blending quickly).

Hourglass & Westman Atelier

Hourglass and Westman Atelier both have repeats in their palettes and sets this year. The Hourglass Ambient Lighting Essentials Palette ($68) has Dim Light, Diffused Heat and Luminous Bronze Light. All three colors are easy to wear for an effortless polished look. I already own all three shades individually and in other palettes but bought this as a gift.

Westman Atelier’s Weekend Set ($138) has three colors in a bundle. I already own all the colors so I didn’t buy it again, but did swatch it below for those of you who haven’t tried them yet.

There is also a Squeaky Clean Liquid Lip Balm Duo ($57) which Popsicle (bright red) and Nana (nude pink). I really love this formula!

MAC Sets

I almost always pick up at least one of the MAC Lip sets. I swatched the two Essential Lipwear Sets and Mini Lipglass Trio for you.

The Essential Lip Wear Set in Pink has some really nice options for fall. It has the Soar Lip Pencil, Nowstalgia Lipglass and Cozy Kisses Lipstick.

The Essential Lip Wear Set in Neutral has Boldly Bare Lip Pencil, Bare Blanket Amplified Lipstick and Glass Half Full Lipglass (full sizes). The lipstick + gloss colors in the neutral kit pull more warm/orange on me than neutral.

The Lipglass Mini Trio has Hygee Honey (cream beige nude), Cozy Rosy (cool pink) and The Pleasure is Mine (neutral pink).

Bobbi Brown

I picked up one set from Bobbi Brown. The Dual Ended Long Wear Cream Shadow Stick Duo ($34) is nice, especially for travel! The colors in this set looked perfect for fall although all the colors are repeats. Colors are easy to layer and are also pretty much budge-proof once they set.

Fragrances & Skincare

There are tons of fragrance sets and jumbo sizes available too. I picked up the Le Labo Discovery Set since I love having minis in my purse with me on-the-go. Tom Ford has their Soleil Shimmer Body Oil Duo ($75) in the Soleil Blanc and Soleil Neige scents. I love these for a glow and shimmer. The scents are really beautiful too. I already own both of them so didn’t purchase the set again.

Le Labo has jumbo sizes of their Hinoki Shower Gel and Hand Soap. Both Andrew and I love these so I bought another one of each. For skincare I picked up the La Mer Luminous Renewal Set ($95) for travel minis.

Hair Tools & Hair Care

For me Hair Care and Tools have the best deals for the sale. Oribe has repeats of previous year sets with the Gold Lust Set ($90, I restocked on this) and the Dry Texture + Dry Shampoo Set ($65).

ghd has their Platinum+ Styler* on sale for $187 and this is the best flat iron I’ve tried (full review soon). They also have their Soft Curl 1.25 inch curling iron on sale as well for $133.

T3 has their Airluxe Hair Dryer* on sale for $133.99 (regular price $199.99) and SinglePass 1.25 Inch Ceramic Curling Iron* on sale for $113.90 (full price $169.99). The Hair Dryer is a really nice one and has multiple heat and fan settings.

Mirrors

I’ve received a number of questions about the simplehuman Sensor Mirror and Riki Loves Riki Lighted Mirror. I own both and use both. I use the Riki mirror almost everyday since I like to be able to see my whole face when I do my makeup. The simplehuman mirror is better for detail because it’s magnified. They’re both great. I’ve owned both for over 5 years and they’ve held up really well.

That wraps up my look at the Nordstrom Beauty Exclusives! Even though there are a lot of repeats I think there are still some great finds.

Shop the Post

As promised I’m hosting a giveaway! (Not sponsored or affiliated.) One reader will win a $500 eGift card to Nordstrom. All you have to do is enter is complete all the steps in the widget below.

Open internationally
You must be 18 years or older to qualify
Complete ALL the steps in the widget (partial entries will be disqualified)
Giveaway will run through July 14 and ONE winner will be selected by me at random through the widget
Selected winner will be emailed by me on July 15th and must respond to email within 72 hours or another winner will be selected in their place

a Rafflecopter giveaway

0 Comments

Hauls Nordstrom Sales

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Try-On Haul

July 7, 2022

above: shelf Amazon / mirror West Elm / ottoman Article / top Rails (regular price) / shorts Agolde / sneakers Nike

I have Part 1 of my Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Haul today with a look at some of the things I picked up in fashion and accessories. My local store had a decent selection although they didn’t have as much stock as previous years. About 1/3 of the things on my list and radar weren’t in store. I was hoping to see some Tory Burch in store (they’re always such a big part of the sale), but they weren’t part of the sale this year.

Accessories

My first stop was the Accessories Section. I didn’t see the jewelry I had on my radar but there was so much out on display (and some stored in glass display cases) I probably missed it. I managed to try the sunglasses that were on my radar including the Celine 50mm Polarized Sunglasses ($299.99, I hope they restock) and the Prada 51 mm Round Sunglasses ($199.99).

Celine Sunnies

Prada Sunnies

I tried on the AllSaints Odette East/West Leather Tote ($152.99, available in Black and Palisade Tan). It’s a cute well-priced tote but a little big for my size so I passed.

The Dagne Dover selection was very limited. I picked up the Mila Small Travel Toiletry Organizer ($29.90) which has already sold out. You can still find it in other colors at the full-price ($45).

For shoes I picked up the Nike Air Max Pre-Day Sneaker ($103.99 on sale). They ran a little bigger than most other Nike Sneakers I’ve tried. I’m usually a 7 in sneakers (6.5 in almost everything else). I opted for the 6.5 size and they’re pretty comfortable. I still prefer APL sneakers for comfort and quality.

Try-On Haul

I opted for casual basics that are comfortable for me to wear in the hot humid weather in Florida. There are always so many good denim options and cute jackets but I can’t wear them most of the year so usually pass on them. I did find a really good fit with one pair of jeans denim (Frame Denim below). Here is what I tried on. I’ve included sizes for reference – most of what I tried ended up being true to size. I’m 5’3” – shorts are my own from L’Agence and Sneakers are the Dior Walk’N’Dior Sneaker.

1.State Pintuck V-Neck Camisole in White and Black

Price: $38.99 on sale (after sale, $59)
Sizing: Wearing an XS
Mini Review: Soft and flowy with adjustable straps, pretty good quality, runs long but has enough room to tuck in, I bought the white one, will probably be a bit tight if you are bigger than a C cup. It’s snug on me but not too tight.

________

All Saints Anna Cotton T-Shirt

Price: $38.99 (after sale $59)
Sizing: US Size 4
Thoughts: Nice comfortable basic with capped sleeves, I tried on the pale pink and blue color. I ended up going with the lighter color. Was also available in white (seemed see thru) and a faded black (looked a little too faded).

________

ATM Schoolboy Cotton Crewneck T-Shirt

Price: $98.90 (after sale $145)
Sizing: Tried on an XS, sometimes I wear a S
Thoughts: Love this thin slightly transparent boxy tee. I own this in a lot of other colors and think it’s a really good basic. The color Deep Coral is a lot brighter in real life than the stock image. I think it’s over priced but it’s a fun summer color.

________

Rails Ellis Organic Cotton Button-Up

Price: $109.99 (after sale $168)
Sizing: Wearing an XS, but usually wear a S
Thoughts: Tried this just for fun, I already own this in a similar blue color so I passed, it’s also available in a Pear Green color which is really pretty. Love this for a super light weight cotton gauze shirt, I wear this style all the time (probably too much).

________

Billabong Sun Dazed Slub Cotton Blend Sweater

Price: $43.99 (after sale $65.95)
Sizing: Tried on the Small
Thoughts: LOVE this so I bought it in two colors. Nice slouchy feel, open holes so I can probably wear it here in Florida, could have sized up for a more slouchy look but liked these

________

Open Edit Ribbed Dolman Sleeve Cotton Sweater

Price: $39.90 (after sale $59)
Sizing: XS, could have sized down to an XXS but they didn’t have any in store
Thoughts: This is SO soft and cozy! It feels so soft and plush against the skin.

Frame Le High Straight Leg Ankle in Westway Grind

Price: $145.90 (after sale $238)
Sizing: 26 (same as what I wear in Paige, Mother, Joe’s)
Thoughts: Really liked the quality and fit, has a thick solid material with a bit of stretch. Ankle length is usually full length on me since I’m short.

________

Vince Essential Stripe Pima Cotton Crewneck Tee

Price: $59.99 (after sale $95)
Sizing: Wearing a Small (probably could have gone up to a medium)
Thoughts: Fitted good quality tee with cute off white stripes, love this for a simple look

________

A Few Other Things

I picked up a couple of the Free People FP Movement Free Throw Crop Tank ($19.99 on sale, regular price $30). I already own this in multiple colors and love it for around the house or under a button down. It’s stretchy, comfortable, and I love these. I wear a Medium.

Took a look at the Barefoot Dreams selection (just to look). They had the classic colors and styles but my store didn’t have the newer patterns, pillows or pet beds.

Full beauty haul to follow soon but wanted to mention the Diptyque 4 Piece Candle Set this year has the small 2.4 oz candles (versus the 1.2 oz minis they usually have). It’s hard to tell from the stock photo. I bought a set to have some extras on hand.

Also not part of the Anniversary Sale but I bought the Casper Glow Light a couple months ago and really love it! It’s an expensive splurge for a night light but I am absolutely obsessed. It’s chargeable so you don’t always have to have it plugged into an outlet (huge plus). You can change the brightness simply by twisting the light on a hard surface. It’s self-dimming so it will turn off while you fall asleep but you can also press the top to keep the light on. Super handy to carry with you at night if you wake up and have to go into the hallway but don’t want to turn on all the lights.

They’re marked down at Nordstrom for 50% off so I bought a couple sets for my in-laws and one more for us. Available in a 2-pack for $124.50 (regular price is $250) and individually for $64.50 (full price is $129).

More to follow soon! And stay tuned for a giveaway coming up on the blog!

Shop the Post:

Did you shop the sale yet? What did you pick up?

0 Comments

Nordstrom Sales

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2022 Preview

July 3, 2022

The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale starts this week for Icon Members and they’ve launched a preview of the sale catalog online! I’ve gone through every category and put together a roundup of the things I think are worth checking out.

Key Dates for the Nsale 2022:

July 6: Early Access for cardmembers with Icon status
July 7: Early Access for cardmembers with Ambassador status
July 9: Early Access for cardmembers with Influencer status
July 15: Anniversary Sale opens to the general public

This is a great time to score your favorite brands on sale! Tons of brands are included like Celine, Jo Malone, Barefoot Dreams, Free People, Charlotte Tilbury, La Mer and more.

Here’s what’s on my radar. Haul, review + swatches to follow as soon as I can post them! Each collage is clickable to shop and preview each item. I’ve also included a carousel below too.

Beauty Exclusives

I love the NSALE Beauty Exclusives and value sets during this sale. I will be stocking up on the Oribe Gold Lust Set ($90, regular price $136). Two of my favorite mirrors incluing the simplehuman 8-inch Sensor Mirror ($150 on sale, regular price $200) and Riki Loves Riki Lighted Mirror ($150 on sale, regular price $230) are both on sale (review here).

I have been testing out some new hair tools and one of the best flat irons I’ve used is the ghd Platinum+ 1 Inch Styler (full review coming very soon!). It’s available in two colors and on sale for $187 (regular price is $279). T3 also has their Aireluxe Hair Dryer ($133.99 on sale) and SinglePass 1.25 Inch Curling Iron ($113.90) on sale too.

If you’ve had Westman Atelier on your radar, definitely check out the Weekend Set ($138, regular price $171). Two of my favorite cleansers from Elemis and Kate Somerville are also on sale.

Women’s Fashion

There are tons of options in Women’s Fashion. There’s a lot of options for fall. Living in the middle of Florida it’s hot and sunny here most of the year, but I do have some things on my radar. I love the All Saints tees. One of my favorite off shoulder sweaters is also on sale in multiple colors. My go-to lightweight breezy button down from Rails is on sale in two colors, Blue Jay and Pear.

Accessories

Rounded up a few accessories and shoes on my radar. One of my favorite styles of Celine 50mm Sunglasses is on sale in a Matte Black/Smoke option on sale for $299.99 (regular price $450). Colors I have aren’t part of the sale but if you want to see them in action, I’m wearing them in Havanna Brown here and Milky White here.

_________________

Home

Last a look at some things for the NSALE Home. You girls know I’m obsessed with Barefoot Dreams and they have lots of new colors and designs that are part of the sale. Out of all the styles I’ve tried my favorite is the CozyChic Throw ($97.90 on sale, regular price is $147) for the softest most stretchy material. They’re all equally soft, but some have a tighter weave which makes them a little more dense/thick.

For the pets, they have the CozyChic Leopard Dog Sweater ($29.90 on sale) and Leopard Pet Bed ($98.90 – $111.90 on sale depending on size).

We kept the little sweaters we bought for Lucy the past two years although I had to put them away in a drawer because they made us so sad every time we saw them (RIP Lucy girl).

Home Picks On My Radar

Beauty Exclusives

Clothes

Early access starts on July 6th! If you’re shopping beauty don’t forget to check the Gift With Purchase Page before you go to the store. It gets busy the first few days of the sale and it’s easy to forget the special offers, especially if you’re shopping at multiple counters.

What’s on your radar this round? Are you shopping the sale or passing this year?

0 Comments

Older Posts

Newer Posts

Sabrina

Summer Sunscreens To Put On Your Radar

Sunscreens for the Body

Sun Care Face Formulas

Summer Skincare Saviors

Cleansers

Toners

Pore Cleaning Masks

Moisturizer Routine

Shop the Post

Summer Luxury Beauty Staples Worth the Splurge

Shop the Post

Two Ways To Use the ghd Platinum+ 1 Inch Styler

Look 1: Sleek and Smooth

Look 2: Curls

Shop the Post

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Beauty Haul

Charlotte Tilbury

Hourglass & Westman Atelier

MAC Sets

Bobbi Brown

Fragrances & Skincare

Hair Tools & Hair Care

Mirrors

Shop the Post

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Try-On Haul

Accessories

Try-On Haul

A Few Other Things

Shop the Post:

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2022 Preview

Beauty Exclusives

Women’s Fashion

Accessories

Home

Home Picks On My Radar

Beauty Exclusives

Clothes

Follow @beautylookbook