Beauty Favorites Archives - Page 2 of 19

Best in Beauty 2023

January 1, 2024

above: Marble + Brass Stand (how I put it together here)

Happy New Year! Wrapping up 2023 with my 2023 Beauty Favorites! A huge thank you to every one of you for your love and kindness. Every kind gesture no matter how big or small has meant so much to me. I have appreciated it more than I can express in words! I’ve really loved connecting with so many fellow beauty lovers – I’ve loved reading your messages. Thank you for sharing your beauty loves, pics of your fur babies, new discoveries and more!

This year’s favorites list has a mix of new launches and long-time staples. Here is what I loved the most in 2023.

Best Base/Face Products

Here were my favorites in 2023:

Best Skin Tint: Too Faced Born This Way Healthy Glow Skin Tint (I wear Warm Beige)

Best Concealer: Natasha Denona Hy-Glam Concealer (I wear Shades N6 to N9 depending on how bright I want the look)

Best Glowy Multi-Tasking Primer: e.l.f. Halo Glow Filter (rotate between Shades 3 and 4, in action here and here)

Best Setting Powder: Givenchy Prisme Libre Loose Powder (I wear Shade 3, in action here)

Best Foundation: Westman Atelier Vital Skin Foundation Stick (I wear Shade VI or VII depending on how light/tan I am, in action here)

Best Cheek Products

So many new favorites in this category, I have left out so many but tried to edit my list to one in each group!

Best Highlighter (Powder): Chanel Symboles Oversize Highlighters (review here)

Best Highlighter (Liquid): Gucci Illuminateur de Beaute (review here), most under-rated liquid highlighter, I don’t know it hasn’t gone viral!

Best Blush: Gucci Blush de Beaute in True Pink (new shade, in action here and review here)

Best Cheek Palettes: Hourglass Ambient Lighting Edit Face Palettes, my favorite was Leopard (review here)

Best Bronzer: Chanel Healthy Glow Les Beiges Cream Bronzer (review here)

Best Eye Makeup

Best Eye Palette: Natasha Denona I Need a Nude Eyeshadow Palette (review + swatches here)

Best Eyeliner: Sisley Phyto Kohl Matte (swatches here, still a favorite!)

Best Mascara: Tarte Tartelette Tubing Mascara (best formula that holds a curl)

Best Lip Products

Favorite Lipgloss: Dior Addict Lip Maximizer reformulation (swatches here, new shades in action here and also here)

Best New Lipstick: YSL Rouge Pur Couture Lipsticks (review here, in action here)

Best New Lipstick Formula: Chanel 31 Le Rouge (the colors are very limited in shade range, but the formula is one of the best I’ve ever tried though! review + swatches here)

Runners Up: Tarte Maracuja Juicy Lip Plump and YSL Candy Glaze (review here)

Perfumes

Most Worn Perfume: Celine Parade (also love Dans Paris, Black Tie and the new Cologne Celeste) – review of all the scents in the discovery set here

Second Most Worn Perfume: Phlur Missing Person (also loved Father Figure and Vanilla Skin)

New Favorites: Guerlain Perfumes are also big hits, but I only rediscovered them at the end of the year, I’m still working my way through the Floral Discovery Set. I also think the Iconic Discovery Set has amazing options and if you’re willing to splurge and treat yourself the Advent Calendar Hive of Wonders has an amazing selection too. (More details in this blog post here).

Skincare & Body Favorites

This was a very basic year for me in skincare. I pretty much stuck with my tried and true staples. This year I hope to be a little more adventurous.

Favorite Moisturizer: La Mer Soft Moisturizing Cream

Go-To Moisturizer #2: Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream

Best Spot Treatment: Bliss Clear Genius Acne Gel (Andrew loves this too, it’s strong enough to work as a good acid acne spot treatment but doesn’t leave red marks on the skin)

Best Smoothing/Resurfacing Treatment: Sunday Riley Good Genes

Best Cleanser Splurge: Chanel Sublimage L’Huile Cleansing Oil (feels so soft and smooth, this is the one I repurchase over and over again)

Best Thing To Keep Skin Clear/Smooth: Eve Lom Muslin Cloths (any muslin cloth will work) but using this helps ensure all the dirt, oil and any cleanser residue are removed

Best Body Products: Chanel L’Huile is the best body oil I’ve tried (I love Vanille) and the Prequel Barrier Therapy Skin Protectant Body Cream has been a life saver for dry skin flare ups.

Best New Try: Botox! I did it for the first time in May and I really loved the results. We went to @marissathepa in Boca Raton (she’s great!) I got 40 units for the first time and it lasted for a good 3.5 months. I fully intended to do it again but didn’t plan far enough in advance and when we were in Miami in December they were fully booked. Debating whether to find someone local or wait until we’re back (I think I’m going to wait).

Hair Care Loves

Best Hair Tool: ghd Platinum+ Styler is my go-to for smooth sleek hair or soft waves. I love this one because it turns off automatically, it’s set to a single temperature, plates have sensors to maintain a constant temperature, the edges of the plates don’t touch the skin so I never burn myself with this. See in action here and here.

Most Used Hair Care: Oribe Gold Lust Shampoo + Conditioner – I use these so much I ended up buying the liter pump bottles and have since repurchased the liter refills, definitely a huge OUCH to the wallet, but the formulas are my favorite

Essential Hair Styling Product: R&Co Dart Stick for my baby flyaways as my hair is going through regrowth this year, I usually order from Neimans or Amazon, it’s small enough to keep in my purse.

Miscellaneous

Best Launch of the Year: Chanel Code Couleur Mirrors, Nail Files, Brush Sets were so fun, I wish I had bought all of the colors, I hope they do something like this again! These sold out almost instantly, review here.

Most Worn Polish: Olive and June Quick Dry Nail Polish in Sandy (this is the best sheer baby pink that dries quickly and the one that got the most compliments this year). Many shades are available at Target but it seems this one is only available at Olive and June.

Thank you again for following along. I’m looking forward to the new year! I know New Year’s Day is really just another day but I feel like it’s a great time to reset and get a fresh new start. The past 12 months have been challenging and incredibly difficult for me personally so I really can’t express how much your kindness has meant to me.

Would love to hear about your favorites!

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Beauty Favorites Lips Sales Sephora

Sephora Savings Event Shopping Guide: Best Lip Products That Live Up to the Hype

October 28, 2023

above wearing Fenty Gloss Bomb in Fu$$y

The Sephora Savings Event is here starting with early access for Rouge Members! I’m putting together a few updated “best-of” shopping guides and today’s roundup covers the Top 5 in Lips for every category from lip liners, lipsticks, liquid lipsticks, glosses and more. If you’re not a Beauty Insider you can sign up now for free here to get access to the Savings Event. Use code TIMETOSAVE during these dates (exclusions apply):

Rouge Members – save 20% off 10/27 thru 11/6
VIB Members – save 15% off 10/31 thru 11/6
Insiders – save 10% off 10/31 thru 11/6
Sephora Collection is 30% off for all members

I’m shopping the Rouge Tier and still building my shopping cart but I have my eye on the La Mer Treatment Lotion Sheet Masks (my holy grail), Kerastase Nutritive Hydrating Shampoo, Anastasia Beverly Hills Mini Sultry Palette and Saie Mini Dew Blush Trio to name a few.

Best Lipliners

There are so many good lip liner formulas these days. My top 5 favorites are below.

Huda Beauty Lip Contour 2.0 ($21, color Pinky Brown shown) has the best long-wear lip liner formula. They glide on with full coverage pigment and I love that they’re packaged in a twist up format with a removeable sharpener at the base. My favorite shades are Pinky Brown, Terracotta, Honey Beige and Sandy Beige.

Also wearing:

Foundation – NARS Light Reflecting Foundation in Santa Fe
Powder – NARS Light Reflecting Powder
Bronzer – Rare Beauty Warm Wishes Bronzing Stick in Happy Sol
Blush – Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush in Virtue
Highlight – Rare Beauty Positive Light Luminizer in Transcend (also in this mini set)
Eyeshadow – Natasha Denona I Need a Nude Palette
Mascara – Tarte Tartelette Tubing Mascara

Pat McGrath Permagel Ultra Lip Pencil ($29, color Structure shown) is another great formula with the best colors. Structure is the perfect neutral brown, Nude Venus is a perfect peachy nude, Buff is the best nude pink.

Make Up For Ever Artist Color Pencil ($22, Wherever Walnut shown) is another great classic pencil. The formula can be used on eyes, brows and lips – they are easy to blend with a matte finish. Wherever Walnut seems to be the most popular color, but I also really love Up & Down Tan and Anywhere Caffeine. They launched a really cute Mini Artist Pencil Set ($35) which has their best-selling shades.

Charlotte Tilbury Lip Cheat ($25, Pillow Talk shown) is my most-worn lip pencil. Pillow Talk is my lips but better shade. I also love Pillow Talk Medium and Iconic Nude.

Sephora Collection Lip Liner To Go ($6, Light Brown shown) is a mini lip pencil perfectly sized for the smallest clutch or pouch. I have a couple colors and Light Brown is my favorite everyday neutral.

Best Lipstick Formulas

Sephora carries so many great lipsticks. Narrowing down my top 5 was really hard as I can list at least a dozen formulas I think are excellent. Here are the best ones I reach for the most.

Armani Lip Power ($45 each, Shade 109 shown) is one of the best creamy opaque smooth lipstick formulas I’ve tried. There are lots of great colors but 109 is the best everyday pink in my opinion. They also launched this in a Matte Formula too (lots of great nudes, I love Shade 111 Matte).

NARS Afterglow Sensual Shine Hydrating Lipstick ($32, Orgasm shown) is my favorite formula for a shine lipstick. Pigment is impressive for a shine formula. They have a comfortable hydrating feel that feels like a balm. My favorites are Orgasm which is a peach pink gold, Breathless a beige nude and Dolce Vita which is a classic rose.

Gucci Care Glow and Shine Lipstick ($47, Sally Soft Honey shown) is another great shine lipstick formula. Pigment is very good with these and I love the glossy finish. Sally Soft Honey is the best everyday pinky nude. Call It a Day is the best mauve (great for fall). I also love Julie Blush for a bright peachy shade.

Pat McGrath MatteTrance Lipstick ($39, Nude Venus shown) is hands down the best matte lipstick formula I’ve tried. It’s smooth, opaque, doesn’t look dry on the lips and the color selection is outstanding. They have a good range of neutrals, reds, bolds, browns – my top 3 shades are Nude Venus (peachy nude), Christy (pink nude) and Divine Rose (rose pink).

YSL Rouge Pure Couture Caring Satin Lipstick ($45, N5 Tribute Nude shown) is a new formula and after trying a few shades I have to say I am REALLY impressed. It has an ultra smooth formula that glides on the lips with absolute perfection. I’ll have a full review on the shades I picked up soon.

Best Liquid Lipstick Formulas

Gucci Transfer-Proof Matte Liquid Lipstick ($47, Grace Cinnamon) is a beautiful formula. Grace Cinnamon is the perfect nude pink shade with smooth coverage and a super lightweight texture.

Urban Decay Vice Lip Bond Glossy Longwear Liquid Lipstick ($27, OG Backtalk shown) is the best long-wear liquid lipstick in the sense that once it sets it does not budge or transfer. OG Backtalk is a really pretty mauve. I also think Text Em is the best rose pink shade ever made.

Tom Ford Lip Luxe Matte ($59, Naked Haze shown) is another exceptional formula. I’ve only tried one shade in Naked Haze which is a great everyday nude pink. I plan on picking up one or two more during the Sephora Savings Event. Texture is lightweight and coverage is smooth and really good.

Dior Rouge Dior Forever Transfer Liquid ($45, Shade 100 Forever Nude) is another great long-wear formula that is also transfer proof. I have this in a couple shades and they really do stay put without transferring. Shade 100 Forever Nude is perfection.

Sephora Collection Cream Lip Stain Liquid Lipstick ($15, Shade 70 First Date shown) is a budget-friendly Liquid Lipstick with an impressive color selection. Formula is full coverage with a creamy satin finish. I love that these feel super lightweight on the lips and they don’t look dry. All Sephora Collection items are 30% off during the Sephora Savings Event.

Top 5 Lip Glosses

I’m 100% a lip gloss girl at heart. Here are the best top 5 formulas I reach for the most.

Lawless Forget the Filler ($26, Cherry Vanilla shown) is the best smoothing lip gloss that plumps without any tingle. I like the darker/bolder shades for a lush lip look. They are on the thicker side but I love the finish. Cherry Vanilla is the best sheer red I’ve ever tried. Juicy Watermelon is the prettiest bright pink. They also launched a few shades in a Jumbo Size ($38 each) and for holiday they have a cute Mini Dreamy Darlings Plumper Set ($27).

Dior Addict Lip Maximizer Plumping Gloss ($40, 12 Rosewood shown) is my most-worn lip gloss formula for the color and texture. I splurged on nearly all of the shades and can easily say they were 100% worth the splurge.

Fenty Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer ($21, Fenty Glow shown) is another favorite. It’s been a favorite since the day they launched Fenty Glow. Every color is wearable and super flattering. I love the smooth texture and shine. I think every color is a must-have.

Pat McGrath LUST Gloss ($29, Nude Venus shown) is another great smooth texture gloss. Nude Venus is the best peachy pink color with pretty good coverage. Flesh Fantasy is a pretty beige pink. Divine Rose is a stunning plum pink.

Bobbi Brown Crushed Oil-Infused Gloss ($33, In the Buff Shown) offers hydration, color and shine in one. Finish is very comfortable and they are great for vacation (or beach) no-makeup days where you want a little bit of color to look polished.

Most-Worn Tinted Balms/Sheer Lips/Oils

Last we have a look at the best tinted balms. A lot of these double as sheer lipsticks.

Tarte Maracuja Juicy Lip Plump ($24, White Peach shown) is a formula I always have in my bag. Every single color they’ve launched is super wearable. They’re smooth in finish and I love how they feel on the lips. During the holiday season they have a lot of great value sets and limited-edition shades. If you’re a fan of the Maracuja Lip formula definitely check out the 2023 Best of Maracuja Juicy Lips Set.

Summer Fridays Lip Butter ($24, Vanilla Beige shown) is another formula I carry in every single purse. I also have the clear one on my night stand. Each shade has a different scent to match the color name but they aren’t overpowering. Love the cute Mini Lip Butter Set too which I think would make a super cute gift.

Kosas Wet Lip Oil ($22, Revealed shown) is one of my favorite tinted lip oil formulas. It actually doesn’t feel thick like you’d expect from an oil. Every single shade is beautiful. The one I get asked about the most is Revealed which I’m wearing in this post.

Last but not least, I really love the YSL Rouge Volupte Shine ($43, Shade 162 shown) and YSL Candy Glaze Lip Gloss Stick ($39, 15 Showcasing Nude in hand, 13 Flashing Rose in background). Both have a balm-like formula. The Rouge Volute Shine has more slip with a sheer glossy finish while the Candy Glaze is thicker and feels like a jelly finish. Both are really phenomenal for formula and color.

That wraps up my extensive best-of lip shopping guide! If you’re looking for the best of the best in lip formulas I hope you found this round up helpful. Happy Shopping!

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Many thanks to Sephora for partnering to sponsored this post.

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Beauty Favorites Sales Sephora

Best Makeup Staples to Splurge on from Sephora

October 27, 2023

Sharing an updated roundup of the best of the best in makeup from Sephora! Today’s roundup focuses on favorites for the face, eyes and cheeks. I’ll have a dedicated lip roundup going live tomorrow because it’s going to cover the best in every category.

Primers

I’m not really into primers because with skincare layering and SPF I don’t really want another layer of product on my face, but here are two that I love. Both are available in minis if you want to try a smaller size before committing to the full size ones.

Bobbi Brown Vitamin Enriched Face Base is the best multi-tasking moisturizer and primer in one. It’s hydrating, smooths out the skin, and doubles as a foundation primer. It’s the one I have used up multiple times and keep going back to.

Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter is another great multi-tasking glow product. I can use this as a glow primer or highlighter. I use shade 3, 4 or 4.5. (I will say though that the Elf Halo Glow Liquid Filter is a very good alternative that’s a lot more affordable.)

Foundation/Tinted Moisturizer/CC Cream

I have so many foundation and base favorites. I’ve tried to split my recommendations by type/coverage/finish level because I know some of you like super light coverage while others need satin finish or full coverage.

Hydrating Tints/Bases

Summer Fridays Sheer Skin Tint is one of the best sheer skin tints (emphasis on sheer). Coverage is very light and finish is dewy and glowy. It does have enough pigment that you need to find a good match but it looks very natural on the skin. I wear Shade 4.

Westman Atelier Vital Skincare Dewy Foundation Drops is the best glowy hydrating base. It’s the best for dry skin in my opinion but on the sheer side so you definitely need to add some concealer for more coverage (or layer a stick on certain areas you need more color). I found the shades of the drops match the stick formula.

Givenchy Prisme Libre Skin-Caring Glow Foundation is a great hydrating foundation with medium coverage. It’s not so hydrating that it looks too dewy or emollient but it is definitely on the hydrating side. I wear N280 or W310.

Natural Looking Bases

Too Faced Born This Way Healthy Glow Skin Tint is my favorite new base of the year. It has natural medium coverage, lightweight feel and looks like skin but better. It has a nice satin dry down with a subtle glow. If it’s separating on you I highly suspect it’s your moisturizer that is not compatible with this formula. I wear Warm Beige.

It Cosmetics CC+ Nude Glow Foundation is the best CC Cream I’ve tried (aside from the Chanel one that is temporarily discontinued). I like that it’s not super thick but has substance to it so it’s still creamy. I’ve tried all the It Cosmetics foundations and this is the best one in my opinion. I wear Medium Tan.

Patrick Ta Major Skin Crème Foundation Powder Duo is the best solid cream foundation I’ve tried. I really like the powders that come with this too because the pigment level is low so it acts as a natural setting powder without adding color (also does not oxidize). Colors run darker than described in my opinion. I’m typically a medium or medium tan but in this formula I wear Light Medium 1 or 2.

Medium Coverage

Westman Atelier Vital Skin Foundation Stick is the best natural looking foundation stick I’ve tried. It’s easy to blend and evens out the skin perfectly. I wear Shade V, VI or VII depending on how light or tan I am. Most of the year I wear Shade VI. See it in action in this reel here.

Armani Luminous Silk Foundation is a classic formula I think everyone needs to try. Has a natural glow and the perfect amount of coverage. I wear Shade 6.5 most of the year.

NARS Light Reflecting Advanced Skincare Foundation is a favorite but I don’t think it’s universally loved. It does have medium coverage that is a bit more opaque than most so a little goes a long way. It’s easy to blend and doesn’t take much work to buff out. I do think your skincare needs to be good though (ie don’t apply this on super dry skin, make sure it’s well moisturized). I am a match to Santa Fe right now, but also wear Sahel and Vanuatu.

Pat McGrath Sublime Perfection Foundation is another classic. Anytime I wear this I wonder why I don’t wear it all the time. Has natural finish and whenever I think of a classic solid foundation this formula is THE one. I wear Light Medium 14.

Concealer

Natasha Denona Hy-Glam is THE BEST CONCEALER I think I’ve ever tried. If I had to use only one the rest of my life this would be it. Coverage is really good and texture is still easy to blend (which isn’t the case for all opaque concealers). I have several different shades I rotate depending on how bright I want to go. I can wear Shade N5 to N9.

YSL Touche Eclat is the best lightweight hydrating brightening concealer. It’s great for under the eyes to brighten and bring the complexion back to life. Very expensive but 100% worth the splurge. I wear Shade 3.

Givenchy Prisme Libre Concealer is another favorite. It live up to the hype 100%. It’s creamy and the wand picks up a good amount of product so you don’t have to layer or swipe a million times to get good coverage. In action here.

NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer is the concealer I think I’ve used the longest. It’s for sure a classic and one I think is universally loved. By comparison to other formulas though I do think the sponge applicator could use an update. It’s small which is nice for detail application, but sometimes I feel like I have to really pump the product to get enough on the applicator.

Gucci Multi-Use Concealer is one of the best new concealers I’ve tried this year. Full review + swatches of lots of shades in this post here.

Setting Powders

Givenchy Prisme Libre Loose Setting Powder is the best setting powder ever made. You can see Shade 3 in action here and Shade 4 in action here. It’s the best flawless airbrush looking setting powder I’ve ever tried.

Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Finish Pressed Powder is my holy grail pressed powder. It has the perfect amount of color to give the skin a flawless finish. I wear Medium. I hope they never change the formula and that it stays around forever.

Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Setting Spray is the setting spray I’ve been using the most lately. There are lots of great formulas from Gucci, Urban Decay, Omorovicza etc. I’m not really committed to one single formula, but the Charlotte Tilbury is one I’ve been using a lot.

NARS Light Reflecting Pressed Powder is another favorite. I don’t think it will be everyone’s cup of tea because it has a stiff finish. I really love it for a natural finish – when you swipe it on the skin you will literally see your face transform into a smooth finish. It’s like magic.

Cheek Bronzer/Contour

I love a good bronzer and there are so many great formulas. Here are the ones I love from Sephora.

Rare Beauty Warm Wishes Effortless Bronzer Stick is one of the best creamy bronzer sticks. I wear a couple shades and really like the formula and undertone. They’re creamy, satin in finish and easy to blend. I wear either Happy Sol or Always Sunny.

Westman Atelier Face Trace Cream Contour Stick is another great natural contour. I wear Truffle which is a nice neutral-warm brown shade. It’s easy to blend, natural looking and smooth. If you’re new to Westman Atelier I highly recommend checking out one of her Holiday Trio Sets (one has Biscuit, one has Truffle).

Westman Atelier Beauty Butter Matte Powder Bronzer is the best matte bronzer I’ve tried. I like both Coup de Soliel or Soleil Riche. They warm up the skin with a matte finish.

Dior Forever Natural Powder Bronzer Shade 5 is another great matte formula. I wear Shade 5 for a natural warm bronze.

Hourglass Ambient Lighting Bronzer in Luminous Bronze Light is the best naturally glowy bronzer. I do recommend opting for the Ambient Lighting Cheek Palettes though because they have a bronzer included. I like Jellyfish or Leopard the best from this year’s options.

Cheek Blush

Armani Beauty Luminous Silk Glow Blush has a beautiful formula with a natural glow. Full review + swatches in this post here.

Givenchy Prisme Libre Loose Powder Blush is another favorite. I love the colors and think the loose powder format is really fun. Full review + swatches here.

Gucci Beauty Luminous Matte Beauty Blush is pure love for a soft silky texture. They glide on the skin beautifully and every color is flattering. Review + swatches here.

Dior Rosy Glow Blush is another powder favorite. I like Pink, Coral and Rosewood. You can read the full review here. I wear the pink one the most out of all the shades.

NARS Afterglow Liquid Blush is my favorite natural looking liquid blush. I like that the pigment isn’t too opaque so it’s more forgiving on the skin. If you want a super opaque liquid blush Rare Beauty is the way to go (they have lots of great colors, I think this Mini 4-Piece Set is a great way to start).

Cheek Palettes

Hourglass Ambient Lighting Edit Unlocked Palettes for the win this year! I think all three are phenomenal but my favorites are Jellyfish and Leopard. Full review + lots of swatches in this post, but if you buy ONE cheek product I think the Hourglass Palettes are the best options.

Cheek Highlighter

I have so many favorites for highlighters but I think if you’re looking for the best of the best, Tom Ford Beauty is the way to go.

Tom Ford Soleil Neige Glow Highlighter is new for holiday in two shades. I didn’t think they were worth the steep price but the most I wear them, the more I like them. They’re absolutely beautiful on the skin and I think the Rose Irise is the better one but they’re both stunning. Swatches in this post.

Tom Ford Soleil de Feu Glow Highlighter is from spring/summer and it’s available in two options. I bought and love Oasis for that gorgeous champagne bronze glow. Review here.

Tom Ford Shade and Illuminate Duo in Moodlight is a classic that’s been around for years but I think the newer Peachlight is even better. If you’re looking for something with a pink or peachy sheen rather than your standard champagne I think Peachlight is really flattering and more modern looking.

Charlotte Tilbury Beauty Light Wands are also holy grail material. I think Pinkgasm and Pillow Talk are the best ones but they are really all so beautiful. Definitely lives up the hype and the colors are SOOO good. If you don’t know that you want to commit to the full size I recommend checking out the Superstar Glow Kit Mini Duo which has Spotlight and Pinkgasm.

Eye Makeup

I still swear by my Top 5 Eyeshadow Palettes I rounded up two years ago. Half of you have told me this is boring, the other half have said it proves these have withstood the test of time. I agree with both sides. I really wish I had something new to share every month for the eyes but palettes are tricky because it’s so rare that I am in love with EVERY single shade in a palette.

If you’re looking for something new and fresh, I say the Natasha Denona I Need a Nude is the best palette of the year (I think it’s better than the Makeup by Mario Ethereal Eyes). I really think anything from Natasha Denona is a solid win – if you’re new to her line this is a great time to splurge/save all at the same time. Her formulations are the best of the best.

I still really love the Tom Ford Eyeshadow Palettes. This year they added some great new variations including Lumiere D’Hiver (swatches here), Hazy Sensuality and Golden Hour (review here). These three are the best ones and they all launched this year.

The best mascaras to me are the Tarte Tartelette Tubing Mascara and YSL Lash Clash.

That wraps up my best-of makeup roundup! Stay tuned for my Lip Must-Haves going live tomorrow!

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Beauty Favorites

September Favorites

October 1, 2023

I’m rounding up my September beauty favorites! Fall is officially here although I feel like we’re skipping this season and going straight into holiday with the beauty sets and holiday launches rolling in already. I’ll have some on new beauty launches soon but for now here is what I loved in September.

New Favorite Foundation Brush

My favorite discovery of the month is the Laura Mercier Real Foundation Brush ($46). For some reason this brush doesn’t seem to be available everywhere even though it was launched with their new Real Flawless Foundation (I wear the shade 3N1 Buff). This is hands down THE best foundation brush I’ve tried. It’s even better than the Hourglass Vanish Seamless Foundation Brush.

The Laura Mercier Real Foundation Brush has a very unique shape and the perfect density. The brush is angled and made in a tear drop shape so it glides along the angles of your face for flawless foundation application. The teardrop shape makes it easy to get product in the detail areas or corners perfectly – I wonder why nobody else has made a brush like this before.

Foundation application is smooth and streak free. I like the length of the brush bristles too – it’s not too short and not too long. You can find it at Laura Mercier or Macy’s (if you’ve spotted it at other places let me know!).

Budget Beauty Favorites

I have some budget beauty favorites this month! They’re not new (a few of them I’ve reviewed before) but I wanted to put them on your radar because they’re too good to miss out on.

The Elf Halo Glow Liquid Filter is one of the best glowy complexion enhancers I’ve tried. They recently added more shades so you might find a better match now. I wear Shade 3 or 4 so when they added 3.5 Medium Neutral Olive I ordered it to try thinking it would be a good in-between color. I still find Shade 4 best for me right now because 3.5 is very olive, but I don’t mind having another shade in the mix.

The glow isn’t too glowy. I can definitely wear it alone or mix it with a foundation all over the face. Right now the new shades appear to only be at Elf Cosmetics and Ulta Beauty. I suspect they’ll roll out the new shades to Target etc. soon.

Maybelline has quite a few products that have gone viral on TikTok and after falling in love with the Sky High Mascara and Lifter Gloss I’ve been trying more from the line.

Their Super Stay 24H Skin Tint Foundation 100% lives up to the hype for a long-wear fluid foundation. I haven’t explored much in budget/affordable foundations because most of them run too pink or peach in undertone. The good news is more brands are offering better shade options and ranges these days. I was happy to find a good match with Shade 310. Quick note though for those sensitive to alcohol in foundations, take note this one has it pretty high on the list. Luckily this did not irritate my skin.

Lasting power is really impressive, even in humid weather. I did not put it to the test for a full 24 hours, but it did last a solid 12 pretty well. It’s a fluid formula with medium coverage but you can layer it. Coverage is natural looking with a subtle glow and has enough pigment to cover the skin nicely.

I also really like the Super Stay Matte Hybrid Powder Foundation (in the same shade). It has pretty good coverage but I like to use it as a setting powder with a brush. Demo of the product in action HERE.

Lip Loves

Dior Addict Lip Maximizers are always in my bag. Shimmer Rose, Rosewood and Rose Nude are my most-worn colors with (Rose Nude gets the most compliments). Dior just launched 3 NEW SHADES for the holiday online and I posted a quick reel with them here. In case you missed it I’m sharing it here on the blog too. Nude Bloom is the prettiest peachy pink nude with a slight golden sheen, Pure Copper is a stunning sparkling copper (glittery and super sparkly but texture is smooth), Holo Silver is a sheer sparkling silver.

Swatch comparisons below:

Three other formulas I have been loving include:

YSL Rouge Volupte Shine in 162 Pulsing Rosehip (one of the best healthy flushed pinks I’ve tried) and 150 Nude Lingerie (warmer pink shimmer, almost looks peach next to 162, but I can assure you it’s pink).

Tarte added new shades of the Maracuja Juicy Lip Plump. I need to share an updated swatch post, but the newest shade Rosebud is SO pretty. It’s the best one they’ve made yet. Also available in some sets like this duo.

The Maybelline Lifter Gloss is a formula I feel like all of you already know about but I’ve rediscovered it and it made my favorites list this month. I picked up the jelly shades from the summer launch and love them. Peach Ring and Gummy Bear are so pretty. I also restocked a few I had used up – Reef is the perfect light neutral.

Bath & Body Care

Two body care items I’ve been loving are from Ouai and Herbivore Botanicals. We’ve been using the Ouai Fur Bebe Pet Shampoo on Ollie and he always smells so good after we wash him with this. I had hoped there was a human option in the same scent but there is not.

I’ve tried Melrose Place before (and loved it) but wanted to try something new so I ordered Dean Street. It’s a really nice fruity floral that isn’t too sweet. It has linden blossom and a little bit of amber to balance it out. Smells clean, fresh and I’ve loved it enough to buy a few refills.

Herbivore Botanicals sent over a few things to try for a project. I really love their Nova Serum and now am curious about the other serums they have in their lineup. The stand out to me is their Cloud Milk Coconut Firming Body Cream. I have been obsessed with their Coconut Bath Milk Soak for the longest time and was really excited for a body cream.

It’s a silky buttery smooth cream that feels lightweight like a cloud when you apply. It is lightly scented with coconut and vanilla but isn’t overpowering. For a quick reference, if you like the texture of Kopari creams but aren’t a fan of the strong scent or super thick texture, I think the Herbivore is a better option. It’s creamy and hydrating but fast absorbing, not sticky and isn’t overpowering in scent.

Fall Nail Polish

I’ve been in my neutral-nail polish era for so long I feel like it’s time for a change. I pulled out the Chanel Le Vernis in 165 Bois des Iles again (reviewed here with the fall collection) and have been really surprised by all the compliments and attention it’s getting!

Other Makeup Loves

For the cheeks (blush, bronzer, highlight) the Hourglass Ambient Lighting Edit Unlocked Palettes (reviewed here) have been in heavy rotation. I keep going back and forth between Jellyfish and Leopard as my favorite. Even with repeat shades or similarities I find myself reaching for these the most and think they’re very versatile. They’re now available at all retailers like Nordstrom, Sephora, Bluemercury and Ulta Beauty.

I’ve filmed looks with all three:

Jellyfish here
Leopard here
Snake here

I also have a few repeats that have made the favorites list again. I think the Givenchy Prisme Libre Loose Powder and Concealer are holy grail material. You can read the full review here, but nothing really compares to the airbrushed look or lasting power that Prisme Libre has.

The Gucci Illuminator is one of the prettiest liquid highlighters I’ve tried. I don’t know why it’s not raved about more! Review + swatches in this post here. (PS I’ll be posting my review + swatches of the new Gucci Concealer very soon.)

Perfume Favorite

Celine Parade has been in heavy rotation. It’s a beautiful citrus scent I think is super unique and different. You can read my review of all their perfumes in this post. I’ve tried the others over the past year and Parade still remains my favorite.

Hair Care

Last but not least, I wanted to give the ghd Platinum+ Hair Styler another mention. It’s my number one go-to hair styling took for sleek smooth hair or waves. As much as I love the Dyson Airwrap for easy waves, the curls just don’t last as long as with a hot tool. (I do use it regularly as a blow dryer though.) The ghd flat iron goes with me on every trip and it’s a life saver to style hair. I was thrilled to partner with them again to show a how-to demo of how to curl my hair with it. For me it’s particularly useful because I’m not the best at curling my hair with a curling iron – I almost always burn my fingers or forehead and a few times I’ve sizzled off hair because the irons were too hot.

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The ghd Platinum+ Styler stays at a constant 365 degree temperature. It has sensors inside to maintain that constant heat.

That wraps up September’s favorites! What did you love this past month?

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Beauty Favorites Loving Right Now

Plum Tones to Try This Fall

September 21, 2023

It still feels like summer here but the fall season has arrived! I’ve rounded up some beauty favorites with plum tones for the upcoming fall months. Most of these are from my current stash but I have a couple new things I’ve tried plus lots of swatches. If you’re a neutral-makeup lover like me but still want to try something a little more bold, here are some things I find really wearable.

Plum Bordeaux Lips

I posted a Reel on Instagram sharing six plum tones I think will easily suit a wide range of skin tones so you can see them all in action!

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Dior Addict Lip Maximizer in Berry 006 is probably my favorite out of all the shades. It’s a brighter purple plum making it more wearable (not as vampy). More shades + full review here.

U Beauty Lip Plasma Compound has been a favorite for a while and I’ve been really enjoying the tinted colors. Cassis is a sheer dark plum. Since it’s a balm/gloss style it will wear off within a few hours but the beauty of this is the fading is more forgiving on the lips.

Clinique Black Honey is a classic. The Pop Plush Gloss applies semi-thick but blends out nicely. The Almost Lipstick swatches really sheer on the hands but give the lips that bitten plum look.

Bobbi Brown Luxe Lipstick is one of the most under-rated classic lipstick formulas. Bond is the perfect opaque plum tone that feels super glam.

Hourglass Phantom Volumizing Glossy Balms are beautiful for a sheer glossy lip. Impulse is a plum red and Lure is a classic plum.

Chanel Rouge Coco Baumes are among my favorite for a sheer plum lip. If you’re usually not a bold-lip wearer but want to try more color, I think these are the best ones to try. Fall For Me is a beautiful reddish plum (swatched on lips here) and Sweet Treat (on the lips in this post) is a really pretty wearable berry.

Eye Makeup Picks

I like a warmer eye to coordinate with plum lips so the purple tones don’t overwhelm the whole look. If you want to add a bit of a warm color that isn’t too dark I think the Hourglass Scattered Light Eyeshadows in Blaze and Rapture are beautiful. I bought these years ago and use them frequently but have still not hit pan.

Tom Ford Eye Color Quad in Honeymoon remains one of my favorite eyeshadow palettes of all time. I still adore it to this day. I also really like the Dior 5 Couleurs Eyeshadow Palettes and Mitzah is a close option to Honeymoon. I’ve swatched the new formula and think it’s ok, colors are still very pretty although I think the original formula was better.

Mauve/Plum Blushes

Plum tones are difficult for me to pull off on my skintone, so I usually opt for something mauve instead.

Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blushes are really beautiful, I love Mood Exposure and At Night.

A number of you missed out on the Chanel Fall Doucer D’Equinoxe Beige Rose Et Mauve blush and asked for a dupe. I couldn’t find an exact match but the Gucci Beauty Blush in Beige Rose is close (pulls a little lighter with more of a sheen, review of more Gucci blushes here and here).

For the true plum/purple blush lover I’ve also swatched the Victoria Beckham Beauty Cheeky Posh in Fame and Tarte Maneater Blush in Raspberry for comparison.

If you’re looking for some plum tones to try I hope you found this little roundup helpful!

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Beauty Favorites

August Favorites

August 31, 2023

Rounding up my August favorites this month! I have a mix of makeup, skin care, fragrance, body care and accessories I’ve been loving.

Givenchy Beauty

I’ve slowly been trying more from Givenchy and have to say I’m obsessed. I think the Prisme Libre Concealer is one of the best concealers I’ve tried. I wear Shade C305 in the concealer and it’s creamy, easy to blend, has great coverage, doesn’t crease or cake. Love that it has the perfect consistency – not too creamy but not too matte.

The Prisme Libre Loose Setting Powder is also pure love. It sets foundation/concealer so nicely with a natural blurred effect. Based on the color descriptions I first tried 4 Mousseline Acidulee for medium skin tones which has green and lilac powders for color correcting. I’ve also tried 3 Voile Rose (a bit light, but I can make it work) and 5 Popeline Mimosa (a bit too dark). I still think Shade 4 is the best for me although I don’t really need the green and purple tones to color correct. I really wish they would make a medium shade without the color correctors.

Most recently I tried the Prisme Libre Skin-Caring Glow Foundation. I finally found my match in the shade N280. Love this formula for the natural glow and medium coverage.

For a glow complexion enhancer the No 1 de Chanel Skin Enhancers from Chanel hands down was my favorite (Exclusive to Chanel and Ulta Beauty). Full review here. For a more affordable alternative (but without skincare) I still recommend the Elf Halo Glow Liquid Filter (I wear Shade 3 or 4) for an all over natural glow booster.

Lip Favorites

This month’s lip favorites are primarily repeats. The YSL Candy Glaze Lip Gloss Sticks in 13 Flashing Rose and 15 Showcasing Nude have been in rotation almost daily. Review + swatches here.

I still reach for the Dior Addict Lip Maximizers in 14 Shimmer Macadamia (below left) and 038 Rose Nude frequently (below right). Review + swatches of more shades here.

The Chanel Longwear Lip Pencils finally came back in stock! The shades Rose Naturel + Nude Brun are the best ones in my opinion for neutrals.

In the matte lip/liquid lip world I tried some of the Lisa Eldridge Velveteen Liquid Lip Colour and was completely blown away! I am usually not a fan of liquid lips/matte lip formulas, but this one from Lisa Eldridge has the most comfortable liquid lip texture that I’ve ever tried. It has a nice dry down that doesn’t shrink or dry out the lips. Colors are very flattering and lasting power is impressive. I have not done a blog post on these but you can see them in action HERE on reels.

Below wearing Fawn

In action below

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Eye Makeup Favorites

The Natasha Denona I Need a Nude Palette is hands down the best palette this month if not this year. I love the neutral-warm tones, pigment, color payoff and quality. Still in stock at Ulta Beauty, if you’re a Sephora shopper you can sign up for alerts when it restocks there.

Hand Care

For hand care I’ve been a huge fan of the Diptyque Softening Hand Wash and the Velvet Hand Lotion. We have mutiples of these in our home, I just started using the Velvet Hand Lotion again and it’s pure love.

In my bag I carry the Chanel Le Lift La Crème Main which I love for hydration and smoothing.

For the nails I still swear by the OPI Cuticle Oil for an affordable option. I’ve been really interested in trying the Dior Huile Abricot which looks like it might have been reformulated recently.

Skincare Loves

Not much has changed in my skincare routine lately. I still have my usual go-to’s in rotation but I’ve been really loving the La Mer Soft Moisturizing Cream, The Concentrate, The Eye Concentrate and the Treatment Lotion Hydrating Sheet Masks.

Fragrance Favorites

Even though fall is approaching it still feels very much like summer and my top 3 scents for August were Diptyque L’Eau Papier and Phlur Missing Person for skin-like scents and Phlur Father Figure for a lush fig. For date nights or something more sophisticated and dressy I love Creed’s Aventus for Her.

Handbag Essentials

I rotate my handbags regularly based on outfits but I always keep a hair clip (love the ones from Emi Jay), blotting papers, travel perfume, and at least a couple lip balms inside. The Dior Blotting Papers have been a lifesaver in this weather. My favorite lip balms are the squeeze tube or click up style format. I also swear by the R&Co Dart Stick for flyaways.

Bag Details

Hair Care Loves

I’ve been a die-hard Oribe fan for the longest time. I keep going back to the the Gold Lust line for the Shampoo and Conditioner. I do like to switch it up though depending on my hair needs and just started using the Kerastase Nutritive Line and my hair looks so much better and feels amazing. I tend to forget in the hot summer months my hair tends to get dried out from the sun, heat and pool. They have different options depending on hair type (ie fine or thick) but I’ve been loving the Bain Satin Shampoo for Fine to Medium Hair + Hydrating Conditioner. They’re hydrating but rinse well so they don’t leave a heavy film on the hair.

The biggest game changers for me though are the Heat Protectant Styling Cream and Heat Protecting Leave-In Spray. Both are great leave-in products that help hydrate and reduce frizz without being too heavy.

If I had to pick one I really love the Heat Protectant Styling Cream (best for medium hair). If you have Fine to Medium Hair you might want to try the Leave-In Spray.

Mini Pouch

Last but not least is a new mini pouch. I ordered one of the the Stoney Clover Mini Pouches (available at Revolve, Saks, Stoney Clover). It’s pretty spendy for a small pouch but I love the size and shape. There are lots of other options with a solid nylon material, patterened nylon, nylon + clear. On the Stoney Clover site you can customize your own with different patches which is cute. I do think with the material this will get dirty easily since it’s fabric but I love the size and structure.

Stoney Clover is having a pretty good Labor Day Sale this weekend with 40% off a lot of items. My clear pouch is included in the sale.

Other pouches on sale for LABOR DAY

The mini one I have in action below

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That wraps up my August Favorites! Would love to hear about your favorites this month!

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Beauty Favorites Loving Right Now

Recent Buys and Loves

August 4, 2023

Happy Friday! Wanted to share some things I bought and loved recently. I’ve posted a lot of these on Instagram but know some of you mainly read the blog (or may have missed my stories).

Marble 2-Tier Tower

I love repurposing home decor trays and marble cheese boards for beauty displays. I spotted this Marble and Brass 2-Tier Stand and thought it would be perfect to display perfume and products I reach for frequently. It’s reasonably priced especially for the hefty marble slabs it comes with.

It is very sturdy but very heavy so I recommend finding a more permanent place for it because it is not easy to move. Mine did not come with feet protectors and I think the stand could potentially scratch your table or counter if you move it. I plan on ordering a few felt or rubber stick-ons for the bottom.

Storage ideas in action here!

Jewelry Cleaner

I have been cleaning my jewelry with a tiny soft brush and jewelry cleaner for years. I spotted this Ultra Sonic Jewelry Cleaner on TikTok and ordered it immediately. I love it. I don’t know if it’s the best one out there as I didn’t do much research on the options out there. I love that it’s compact and doesn’t take up a lot of storage or counter space. It’s super easy to use.

Simply put warm water (I put in hot water, but not boiling) in it and push the button and it does it’s thing. Jewelry looks super sparkly. I was really surprised how much debris was at the bottom. You can also put in glasses, sunglasses etc. I put in some hair clips and they had so much residue from product and my fingers in the grooves. They came out perfectly clean.

Acrylic Round Organizer

I shared these spinning organizers before but just ordered a couple more from Target. I like them for mascara, pencils, those Tarte Maracuja Juicy Lips (my collection is out of control), brushes, etc.

Hair Clips

You girls know I love those Balmain Hair Couture Clips. I think they’re really well made, streamlined and the quality is SO much better than the average clip but they’re very expensive!

My bestie messaged me and asked if I had any from Emi Jay. I did not but she said I needed them so I ordered a few. The quality is exceptionally good. I do wish they had more small or medium sizes available as most of the clips are in the Big Effing Claw Clips Size but I think they’re really well made.

I also ordered some Machete Clips to try. I love the clips although they’re not all the same thickness/quality. The Midi, Grande or Twin Heirlooms are really well made and thick/sturdy. I love the size of the Minis but they’re thinner which is still very good but not as good as the others.

Tissue Box / Tray

These two aren’t new but I get asked so often about them I thought I’d link them again. I love these simple Tissue Box Covers to elevate the look of your home. I have them in the white and grey and think they’re really well made.

This Quartz Catchall is one of the most beautiful trays I own. We have several around the home (night stands, living room, my office). Anytime I share something on stories I get dozens of messages asking for a link.

Sunglasses

I’ve been meaning to do a sunglasses roundup but haven’t gotten around to it. I still really love the ones from Tom Ford I bought from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. The Alistair 56 mm Gradient Sunglasses in the Red Havana are my favorite. The Milla 59 mm Gradient Aviators are the ones you girls have loved the most (I bought them in the brown and blue lens). Sale ends on the 6th.

For designer sunglasses the Celine Triomphe 52 mm Oval Sunglasses in the Black and Brown are my most-worn sunnies. For a more classic look I splurged on the Celine 3 Bold Dots Style 50 mm size and really love them. If you want a bigger lens they also have it in a 54 mm size but I have not seen/tried those in person for comparison.

Favorite Shoes Right Now

It seems like it’s always sandal season in Florida but this year I haven’t really been wearing sandals that much. I’ve been living in sneakers – probably because of walkies with Ollie. They’re more comfortable and it’s easier to walk in grass or the dog park with sneakers vs open toe shoes.

I tried to find a dupe for the Celine Low Top Trainers and the New Balance 480s are pretty good (they run TTS). They’re not as cushiony or comfortable in the sole but for the price they’re great. (For me they are definitely walking shoes and not running shoes.)

I also shared a few other styles a few weeks ago and thought I’d post them here.

Top Row: New Balance 327 (runs TTS), Dior Walk N Dior (runs TTS), Veja Venturi (go a 1/2 size down)
Middle Row: Celine Low Top Trainers (I went with a 36 and am a true 36.5/37), New Balance 574 (runs TTS), APL Techloom Breeze (I go a 1/2 size bigger for a 7)
Bottom: New Balance 480 (runs TTS)

Lash Combo Primer + Mascara

One last shout out for recent buys is a beauty find. I have tried so many mascara primers which are great for thickening and volume, but I haven’t found one that holds the curl until now. I bought the Too Faced Better than Sex Foreplay Mascara Primer and I love it. It’s a thinner formula so you only need a thin coat but it really helps mascara adhere and holds the curl. I’ve been pairing it with the YSL Lash Clash Mascara.

July Beauty Favorites

Last but not least, I did not have time to blog my July Beauty Favorites but I did a roundup with everything linked here including my favorite base, favorite concealer and more. Everything is also linked here.

What have you been loving lately?

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Givenchy Beauty

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Mini Pouch

Recent Buys and Loves

Marble 2-Tier Tower

Jewelry Cleaner

Acrylic Round Organizer

Hair Clips

Tissue Box / Tray

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Favorite Shoes Right Now

Lash Combo Primer + Mascara

July Beauty Favorites

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