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Ulta Beauty Big Summer Beauty Sale

July 18, 2025

Ulta Beauty Big Summer Beauty Sale

There are so many great sales going on right now. I shared a summer beauty look with Ulta Beauty earlier in the week here on Instagram and thought I’d highlight the sales here on the blog too. They’re having their Big Summer Beauty Sale and it ends July 19th. Lots of great summer beauty finds are marked own with buy one get one 50% off and up to 40% off too.

Here are the best deals on my radar, starting with RMS at 20% off! RMS Beauty is now at Ulta Beauty and the entire line is 20% off. I love their ReDimension Hydra Powder Blushes and Bronzers. I just noticed they added one of my favorite shades Crystal Slipper to several other formulas so I ordered the Luminizer, Lip2Cheek, Eye Lights and Legendary Lip Oil all in the same shade to try. I won’t get them before the sale ends but I’m still very excited to try it all.

RMS ReDimension Hydra Powder Blushes

ReDimension Hydra Dew Luminzer and Hydra Bronzers

ReDimension Hydra Dew Luminzer and Hydra Bronzers

RMS ReDimension Hydra Powder Blushes

RMS Crystal Slipper

Urban Decay Eyeshadows, Mascaras and Pencils are 40% off. I think the 24/7 Eyeshadow in Half Baked is one of my favorite golds. The 24/7 Glide-On Eyeliners are also on sale along with the Perversion Waterproof and Perversion Mascara.

Ulta Beauty Big Summer Beauty Sale

Tons of mascara brands are marked down – SALE Mascaras here. Tarte Mascaras are 40% off and I still swear by the Tubing and XL Tubing Mascaras. Maneater Mascara, Lights, Camera, Lashes Waterproof and Volumizing are on sale. A few Lancome formulas are also included like the Hypnose Drama Instant Full and Monsieur Big Volumizing and Monsieur Big Waterproof. Lots of formulas from Stila, Estee Lauder, It Cosmetics, Grande and more are included.

Tarte Tartelette Tubing Mascaras

This week there are lots of hair straighteners that are 30% off. To this day I still swear by the ghd Platinum+ Styler. It goes with me on every trip too. I gifted one of these to a friend and I was also thrilled to see she packed it one one of our trips together.

ghd Platinum+ Styler

ghd Platinum+ 1” Styler Smooth Sleek Hair

A huge selection of nail products are BOGO 50% off. The shade I’ve been wearing lately that everyone has been asking about is the OPI RapiDry Stun N Done (pearly champagne). I love their Cuticle Oil and ordered a couple of the ones in the tube to carry in my purse.

OPI Rapidry Stun N Done

I also still swear by the Essie top coats like the Speed Setter or Gel Couture top coat. I think there are so many great shades in the Gel Couture line like Sheer Fantasy (sheer pink), Fuel Your Life (purple) and You Candy-It (bright pink).

Essie Gel Couture Sheer Fantasy

Essie Fuel Your Life

Essie You Can-Dy It

A few of you mentioned the Blushed Metal Gel Couture Top coat to me as an iridescent color-shifting topper so I added that to cart and can’t wait to try it!

July 19th is the last day of the sale! If you had anything on your radar I hope you catch this post in time!

Hauls Nordstrom

Everything I Bought From the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2025

July 13, 2025

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Haul 2025

The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is open to the public through August 3rd. I shopped the early access for the second day and found some really fun things. Here is everything I picked up starting with my favorite buy.

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Haul 2025

Every year I love looking at the sunglasses because they have exceptionally good markdowns and it’s something I can wear year round. They tend to sell out quickly but I was able to find the Tom Ford Penny 55 mm Polarized Geometric Sunglasses ($344.99 on sale, regular price $515) in Havana/Polar Green. They have a cat shape with a flattened base. I still wear the ones I bought from past years all the time.

Tom Ford Penny 55 mm sunglasses Nordstrom Sale

I love looking at all the fall fashion but cannot pull off 90% of it because of where I live. Even when I lived in San Diego most of the fashion was too warm to wear and after living in Central and Southern Florida for the past 8 years, San Diego weather almost seems a little chilly! I did find some cute activewear from Zella including the Racerback Seamless Sports Bra ($27.99 on sale in MEDIUM) and Sunburst High Waist Pleated Tennis Skort ($49.99 on sale, regular price $79 in a SMALL).

I really loved the Open Edit Luxe Sculpt Rib Sweater Tank ($38.99 on sale, wearing a SMALL) because it’s stretchy and very soft. Based on how SOFT this is I think I might pick up one of the other styles called the Luxe Sculpt Rib Tank (not part of the sale) but I think the cut looks flattering! I also picked up the Pleated Miniskirt ($45.99 on sale, regular price $69.50, wearing an XS) which I think is cute for the fall to winter season, at least in Florida.

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Haul 2025 - Zella and Open Edit

I skipped the shoes because the sandals I had on my radar were not in store. The sneakers I had my eye on were tempting but I decided I already own enough right now.

For my beauty finds I found everything I had my eye on in store before anything sold out. The Hourglass Brush Set Trio ($136 on sale) sold out so quickly. My SA told me instore she predicted this would sell out the first and it really surprised me but she was 100% right! The brush quality is excellent – just as good as the individual ones although the concealer brush isn’t quite as dense as the individual ones.

Hourglass Brush Trio Nordstrom Sale

The Prada Beauty Lipsticks ($37.50 each) in the Soft Matte Formula Limited-edition brown packaging also sold out in the blink of an eye. All the colors are permanent, so if you have your eye on them, don’t fret – you can still buy the shades. I still think the Prada lipsticks are 100% worth the splurge but if you can wait, I would recommend waiting until holiday when retailers have their friends and family sales.

Prada Beauty Soft Matte Monochrome Lipsticks

Westman Atelier had a few sets for the sale and they kindly sent them over for review! The Lip Edition Set ($79 on sale, $122 value) has three full sized permanent shades in the Lip Shape Liner in Petal, Lip Suede in Petal and Squeaky Clean Lip Balm in Chou Chou. I’ve really been enjoying the lipstick lip suede more than I thought I would. I did want to note a few of you mentioned yours went rancid with an off smell. I smelled every single one I own and luckily nothing has turned yet. I think the Lip Shape Lip Pencil is an exceptionally good formula. I picked up a few other shades and will review soon.

She also launched a Mini Baby Cheeks Duo ($35 on sale, $52 value) with existing Shades in Chou Chou and Petal which surprisingly sold out quickly too. If you missed out I wouldn’t be too upset, I actually think her seasonal holiday launches are much more exciting. I can’t wait to see what she launches this year.

Westman Atelier Nordstrom Anniversary Sets 2025

Westman Atelier Nordstrom Anniversary Sets 2025 lip swatches

A few MAC items caught my eye. I decided to try the Nightmode Lipglass Air Lip Gloss Duo ($35) which has an ultra lightweight smooth formula. It’s not as thick or sticky as the original lipglass and I think the colors are really beautiful.

Nordstrom also launched a few lipstick shades for the sale and I thought Cafe Mocha was a really pretty neutral to try.

MAC Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Lip Sets

MAC Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Lip Sets

For bodycare I picked up the L’Occitane Showered in Almond Jumbo Set ($52 sale price, value is $91) for Andrew. He loves the shower oil although he misses the Shower Shake they discontinued years ago.

L'Occitane Almond Shower Oil Set

Also picked up the Osea Cleanse and Glow Body Set ($62 on sale, $104 value) as I really love the shower gel and body oil and I do not mind having a backup.

Osea Malibu Set

For skincare I picked up the La Mer Travel Essentials Set ($98) with the Moisturizing Soft Cream for a friend. The minis are REALLY tiny but I still think it’s a nice way to try the items without splurging on the full sizes.

La Mer Travel Essentials Set

Fragrance sets and hair tools have some of the BEST deals this year, although I will say I suspect the holiday season will also bring us some really good deals too.

Byredo has some exceptionally good sets and if I didn’t already have the full sizes I would have bought all three. I picked up the Eau de Parfum Travel Essentials ($198 on sale, value $294) has three minis in scents each (0.4 oz) and I really love with a leather atomizer case. They also have some great sets with a Mojave Ghost Trio ($250 on sale) and a Blanche Absolu Trio ($290 on sale).

Byredo Travel Essentials Set

I am finally the owner of Parfums de Marly Delina and Delina Exclusif with the Signature Fragrance Trio ($485 on sale, value is $720). I am already well stocked on Valaya so I’m trying to decide who I should give it away to, but I could not resist getting the set for the other two.

Parfums de Marly Trio

Diptyque has a few sets for the sale. I picked up the Iconic Candle Gift Set ($92 on sale) which has 3 small sizes in Baies, Figuier and Tubereuse. I think these make great hostess gifts so I try to have one on hand.

Diptyque Small Candle Set Nordstrom Sale

I didn’t pick up any hair tools since I own a lot that are part of the sale but I wanted to give a mention to T3 since the Aire IQ is on sale. I was gifted T3 Aire IQ last summer and I love it. The Blush Pink is currently on sale for $100 off at $299.99 (regular price is $399.99). I think you can find lots of great deals on T3 throughout the year but if this is on your radar I can confirm after using this for nearly a year I really love the design and the features. You pick your hair type in the initial setting and it will generate the ideal heat and strength setting for your hair type depending on what attachment you use. I don’t use the diffuser, but I do use the others on a regular basis. You can also switch to manual mode for both settings and there is a forced cool-shot option.

T3 Aire IQ

I’ve actually been using this more than the Dyson to blow dry. The T3 has more options for heat and strength. I also love the design and the stand that comes with this is beautiful! I feel like all dryers should come with a stand like this.

That wraps up my Nordstrom sale haul! I hope you found some great finds this year! If you want to share anything you picked up please let me know in the comments!

Nordstrom Sales

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2025 Preview

July 8, 2025

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2025 Sunglasses, Shoes, Accessories

The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2025 starts now for Icon Card Members! The sale runs from July 8th through August 3rd. Nordstrom Cardmembers shop the sale early depending on your Nordy Club Status:

  • ICONS have early access July 8-11
  • AMBASSADORS can shop starting July 9-11
  • INFLUENCERS have early access July 10-11
  • The sale opens to everyone from July 12

I’ll be shopping this week and will share my haul picks. Since Nordstrom launched an online preview of all the sale items early I was able to browse by every category and I pulled some things that caught my eye to put on your radar.

Since we just moved to a new apartment earlier in the spring I am in the market for some new home décor and cookware (still searching daily!). There are quite a few good beauty exclusives this year too. There are lots of great value sets and value sizes. Tons of bundles at marked down prices. Even if you’re more in the market for new beauty launches (rather than sets or value sizes) I still think there’s something for everyone.

Here’s what I have my eye on by category. I will be narrowing down my picks substantially as I browse and sort through the sale in person. For beauty shoppers don’t forget to check out the GIFT WITH PURCHASES online first! Some of the gifts are online only and in store a lot of the associates don’t know about all the gifts available outside of their specific counter or brands.

SHOES and ACCESSORIES

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2025 Sunglasses, Shoes, Accessories

YSL 52 mm Cat Eye Sunglasses ($270.99 on sale), YSL Tinted Aviators ($337.99), Isabel Marant 51 mm Cat Eye ($171.99), Saint Laurent 55 mm grey sunglasses ($317.99), Tom Ford Penny 55 mm Geometric Sunglasses ($344.99), Jenny Bird Mila Huggie Gold Earrings ($64.99), Monica Vinader Baroque Pearl Earrings ($233.99), Monica Vinader Lab-Grown Diamond Bracelet ($834.99) Bruno Magli Tan Slides ($184.99), Loeffler Randall Knot Sandals ($164.99), Tory Burch Jelly Thong ($79.99), Vince Sneakers ($149.99), Vince Sneakers ($149.99), Dark Brown Suede Belt ($111.99), Madewell Light Brown Belt ($44.99), Nordstrom Tan Belt ($39.99)

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WOMEN’S CLOTHES

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2025 Women's Clothes

Tan Tank ($38.99), Black Off Shoulder Top ($32.99), Vince Camuto Button Vest ($52.99), White Off Shoulder Top ($32.99), White Bomber Jacket ($98.99), Rails Asymmetrical Mini Skirt ($119.99), Vince Square Neck Tank ($159.99), Fuzzy Sweater ($45.99), AG Denim ($163.99), rag and Bone Denim ($166.99), Frame Denim ($171.99), rag and Bone Denim ($172.99), Open Edit Pleated Mini Skirt ($45.99)

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ACTIVE WEAR

Zella Racerback Sports Bra ($27.99), Zella Skirt ($49.99), Zella Mixed Media Bomber Jacket ($85.99), Zella Studio Luxe Bike Shorts ($39.99), Zella Racerback Sports Bra ($27.99), Zella Skirt ($49.99), Garden Party Minidress ($84.99), Beyond Yoga Colorblock Bra ($48.99) and Leggings ($72.99), Zella Crossbody Bag ($19.99), Cloud Sneakers ($109.99), New Balance Sneakers ($79.99), Flask ($29.99)

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HOME FINDS

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Home Finds

Barefoot Dreams Blanket ($124.99), Towel Set ($21.99), Viking Cookware Set ($664.99), Jo Malone Diffuser Duo ($150), Hydrangea Arrangement ($190.99), Nest Duo ($65), Textured Cotton Throws ($29.99 each), Diptyque Trio Set ($92)

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BEAUTY EXCLUSIVES – MAKEUP

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Beauty Exclusives 2025

Trish McEvoy Set ($275), MAC Lipgloss Duo ($35), Westman Atelier Lip Set ($79), Bobbi Brown Eye Palette + Liner ($69), Armani Blush Duo ($53.40), Prada Lipstick ($37.50), Dior Set ($73), YSL Eyeshadow Palette Set ($91), Hourglass Brush Set ($136), Valentino Lipstick Set ($100)

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BEAUTY EXCLUSIVES – FRAGRANCE

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Beauty Exclusives 2025

Byredo Blanche Trio ($290 – also available in a Mojave Ghost variation), L’Occitane Shower Oil ($39), Parfums de Marly Trio ($485), Le Labo Travel Set ($94), Jo Malone Duo ($170), Jumbo Hand Wash ($), Diptyque Candle Trio ($), Byredo Travel Set ($198)

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BEAUTY EXCLUSIVES – SKINCARE + BODY

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Beauty Exclusives 2025

Dr. Dennis Gross Set ($455), KP Bump Eraser Duo ($39), La Mer Travel Set ($98), La Mer Eye Duo ($375), Osea Body Set ($62), Dermaflash Tool ($73), 111Skin Sheet Mask Set ($98), Kiehl’s Better Screen ($45), U Beauty Trio Set ($156)

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I’m hosting a giveaway to celebrate this sale! There will be several throughout this month (also check my Instagram for more giveaways there too). The first one is going to be a $250 eGift Card to Nordstrom. Open to all readers and all you have to do to enter for a chance to win is enter through the widget below and complete ALL THE STEPS. I’ll pick a winner and contact them via email this Friday!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Hauls Sales Sephora

Sephora Sale Haul + First Impressions

April 14, 2025

Sephora Sale Haul Picks

Today is the last day of the Sephora sale with code SAVEMORE and I have my full haul to share with some first impressions. There was quite a bit that I had on my list to try and the sale came at the perfect time!

Skincare Haul Picks

Sephora Sale Skincare haul Alpyn, Biodance, Kiehl's and iNNBeauty Project

My skin has been going through some changes the last month so I’ve been on the search for new moisturizers and serums to try. Here’s what I picked up:

Dr. Dennis Gross Vitamin C Lactic Acid Serum – I haven’t had a chance to try this yet but I’ve heard so many good things, I might pick up the moisturizer version too, if you have a favorite Vitamin C Serum let me know in the comments!

Alpyn Super Peptide and Ghostberry Moisturizer – This was the most recommended moisturizer from all of you! I asked for recommendations on my Instagram Stories and this hands down was everyone’s favorite, I’ve tried it and really like it. Once my skin rebalances or goes back to normal I think this will be one I reach for a lot. Right now my skin is super dehydrated so I’m in need of something heavier.

iNNBeauty Project Extreme Cream and Firming Eye Cream – I’ve been so curious about this brand. I’ve seen it pop up everywhere on my feed too! After some debating and feedback from you I decided to try it and I am 100% in love with both. 100% worth trying even though they are richer formulas. Quite a few of you mentioned you live in hot climates and still love this. I am going to buy the full size of the moisturizer before the sale ends tonight.

Biodance Bio Collagen Mask Set – Another viral skincare product I’ve been curious about. I have yet to try this since they recommend you apply for several hours. I can’t wait to try it.

I restocked the Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser (my favorite) and Andrew picked up another Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream even though I have my own stock pile at home that I share with him, he really likes this one.

Sunscreen Buys

Sunscreen Buys Shiseido, Ultra Violette, ISDIN

Andrew and I are on a mission to try as many sunscreens as possible. Now that we’re in Miami where it’s hot and very sunny we’re being more diligent about applying sunscreen every single day and re-applying. Also since it’s hotter here we are trying to find the best sweat-proof one that doesn’t slide off immediately with sweat but that also won’t clog our pores or feel greasy. This has been a challenge since Andrew does not like mineral formulas and doesn’t want to wear anything that feels greasy.

Sunscreen Buys Shiseido, Ultra Violette, ISDIN

Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Lotion Mineral SPF60 – This is a new formula and I tried this for the body. Although it’s mineral it blends out nicely. Still has a bit of a white cast but I like that it isn’t thick. I have to test it at the pool or beach to give my full thoughts but so far I’m giving it a thumbs up. I don’t know that I will be able to convince Andrew to try it though.

Ultra Violette is a brand I’ve been so curious about. I bought the Vibrant Screen SPF 50 (for the body) and like it but it is pretty emollient and doesn’t really have a dry down. That said it’s not too heavy.

I also picked up the Ultra Violette Mini SPF Mates to try for the face along with the Sheen Screen SPF 50 Hydrating Lip Balm. I haven’t had a chance to try but a lot of you like these!

ISDIN is another line I’ve had on my radar but I’ve been hesitant because the two most popular ones are mineral. I tried the Fusion Water Magic SPF 40 and am not really a fan of the texture. I’m going to test a few more times though. The two mineral formulas are incredible and I think these are the first mineral sunscreens I’ve actually liked.

Eryfotona Actinica Ultralight Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 does have a tiny bit of white cast but they also have a tinted option called the Eryfotona Ageless Tinted Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 which I really love. Both are very fluid and lightweight. They’ve layered well over my moisturizer so far and I haven’t had any irritation.

Dr. Jart Every Sun Day Face Sunscreen SPF 50 – This is a formula Andrew picked to try. He says he likes it and it’s not too greasy.

Hair Care + Fragrance Picks

Hair Care and Perfume Buys from Sephora Sale

I bought a few new things to try for the hair. I had high hopes for the Gisou Mini Wildflower Honey Infused Hair Perfume. It’s so cute and perfect for the purse but I’m undecided on the scent.

The Ouai Team sent over their Leave In Conditioner in the St Barts scent and it’s perfect for summer. I was planning to pick one up but thrilled they sent one over!

Verb Ghost Weightless Oil – I used to use this years ago and am not sure why I stopped. I picked this up to try again and LOVE it! I think it’s better than the new Kerastase Oil.

A quick shout out for the Oribe Serene Scalp Densifying Shampoo, Conditioner and Treatment Spray. For me this is the best thickening line I’ve tried. I received these in PR a month ago and while it’s not a daily treatment for me, I do love this anytime I want more thickening on the hair without it feeling weighed down.

Kerastase Gloss Absolu Line

Kerastase launched a new Gloss Absolu Line and I was 100% convinced this would be holy grail material. I like it but it’s not one I can use daily as the formula is too rich for my hair. I bought the entire line including the Anti-Frizz Shampoo, Conditioner, Hair Oil and Anti-Frizz Spray. I did not like the Anti-Frizz spray (it’s too thick/heavy) but I do love the oil.

I bought the minis of both the Glossier You Fleur Eau de Parfum and Jo Malone Beach Blossom Cologne to try out first. I decided to go for the full size of the Glossier You Fleur which has a unique floral and salty blend. I’m not usually into osmanthus notes but this one is really nice.

I had the highest of hopes for the Jo Malone Beach Blossom. I loved the list of all the notes and the packaging looks so beautiful. This one unfortunately didn’t go well with my skin chemistry and had zero lasting power. I think the best beachy scent to this day is still Creed Virgin Island Water which is quite the splurge (and unfortunately not available at Sephora) but nothing else compares.

Makeup Picks

I went a little overboard with the makeup haul. I with I could have been able to review everything before the sale ends, but I do have some videos with swatches that might help.

Merit Shade Slick Lip Oil and Signature Sheer Lip Liner

Merit launched a new Shade Slick Lip Oil and Signature Sheer Lip Liner. You can see them in action here. Overall vibe of both is that they are very sheer for a minimalist look. The Lip Liners are sheer and glossy which I think are so interesting. They glide on the lips beautifully but are very subtle. The Lip Oil is also subtle but they layer nicely on top of the liner. I don’t know that I would call them must-haves for my makeup preference. I prefer something with more pigment.

Fenty Gloss Bomb Oil Picks and review

New shades of the Fenty Gloss Bomb Oils dropped and as a Fenty gloss addict I hauled all the shades. The only one I didn’t like is Rose Amber (it pulled too cool/grey on me). You can see them in action here and swatched here. I love the smooth texture, they feel thinner than the original Fenty Gloss Bomb. The sparkle looks intimidating but on the lips it’s not as sparkly as they look in the tube. The best ones are Fu$$y and Fenty Glow. Frosted Bunz is a repromoted which I also really like.

Gisou launched new shades of their Honey Infused Lip Oils. They’re fun and I love the formula but the colors are super sheer. See them in action here.

Gisou Honey Infused Lip Oil

I picked up three powders to try and was able to try two of them. I really love the YSL All Hours Hyper Blur Loose Setting Powder (I bought 02 Fair Medium). I had high hopes for the Kosas Cloud Set Loose Powder but it settled into fine lines and seems to emphasize them. I think perhaps my skin is too dry for it now. I might keep this for when my skin goes back to normal (right now it’s too dry).

I picked up the Givenchy Prisme Libre Matte Pressed Powder in 03 Voile Rose. I haven’t had a chance to try it yet but I am very curious about how it will perform. Quick tip for things that are sold out online. I highly recommend doing the Buy Online Pick Up In Store option. A lot of stores still have stock even if things are sold out online and you can search stores near you by zip code. If you use that option and purchase it online (to pick up in store) they will hold your purchase for a few days in case you can’t make it in right away.

Setting Powder Haul Givenchy, Kosas and YSL

 

I picked up some Haus Labs. I swatched the Bio-Radiant Glassy Balm Highlighter Stick and they have the prettiest glassy shine. I’m not usually into a glossy/glassy look on the face but these were so pretty I had to try a few shades.

For my bronzer haul picks, I reviewed the Dior Forever Nude Bronzer Jumbo sizes in yesterday’s post. Also added some thoughts about the Westman Atelier Sun Tone Bronzing Drops in Shade 2 in that post as well.

Haus Labs also redid their bronzer in a Powder Sculpt Velvet Talc-Free Powder Bronzer. I’m really trying to love this as it’s SO popular but the texture just doesn’t sit well on my skin and the colors don’t look right on my skin tone. I picked the third lightest shades Terra Sol Light Medium.

Sephora Bronzer Haul Picks Dior, Haus Labs and Westman Atelier

As a tubing mascara fan now I picked up the Too Faced Ribbon Wrapped Lash Extreme Tubing Mascara to see how it compared to the Tarte. It’s a nice one and doesn’t smudge or flake, but it doesn’t add much volume to my lashes. I think the Tarte one is much better.

I restocked the Glossier Boy Brow Arch Pencil in Cool Brown and Warm Brown. Even though these don’t have a ton of product I still really like them. I can wear either the warm or cool versions so I bought one of each again.

Sephora Sale Haul

That wraps up my super lengthy Sephora haul. If you had been wondering about any of these items I hope this haul + first impressions post helps!

Stay tuned for more reviews and swatches as I get back into my routine! Also have a giveaway planned this week for the blog readers and will also be hosting one on my Instagram.

Sales Sephora

Sephora Savings Event Spring Sale 2025: Best in Makeup

April 3, 2025

Best Makeup to Shop during the Sephora Sale 2025

I’ve been MIA for the past couple of weeks as I just moved from Tampa to Miami! We’ve all been living out of boxes and moving boxes as we packed everything up for our big move. We are finally in South Beach! I’ll share more soon but you can see a sneak peek of our new place on my LIFE UPDATES highlights on Instagram if you’re curious!

We are slowly but surely settling into our new place and getting everything sorted. Lots of reviews and more beauty content coming your way as I get back into the swing of things. I really miss blogging and trying out new beauty products. I can’t wait to get back into my routine.

The Sephora Savings Event is here this month running from 4/4 through 4/14! Rouge gets first access starting this Friday instore or online with code SAVEMORE. Dates for access:

  • Rouge Members save 20% 4/4 through 4/14
  • VIB Members save 15% off 4/8 through 4/14
  • Insiders save 10% off 4/8 through 4/14
  • All Sephora Collection is 30% off

There are so many great makeup launches these days. I’ll share my absolute tried and true favorites by category and if there’s something new that I tried and loved recently I’ll also list those below.

Best Primers

Saie Glowy Supergel Rose Glow and Warm Glow

I’m still not a traditional primer kind of person, but I will use a multi-tasking primer/moisturizer/spf underneath makeup. I still love the Bobbi Brown Vitamin Enriched Face Base and the Charlotte Tilbury Invisible UV Flawless Primer with SPF 50.

If I want something to mix in or add a bit of glow as a base, I still swear by the Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter (I use Shade 3 or 4.5, swatches here) as a staple, but these days I’ve been really loving the Dior Forever Star Filter (I use Shade 3, swatches + comparisons here) and Saie Glowy Super Gel in Roseglow.

I also really like the new Supergoop! Glowscreen Soft-Radiance Drops which is a mineral formula with SPF40. I’ve been testing out the darker shade Golden Hour but might also pick up Sunrise to try.

Best Concealer

Best Concealers YSL, Natasha Denona, Givenchy, NARS and Armani

Two favorites I will always repurchase are the Natasha Denona Hy-Glam Concealer for full coverage (still creamy and very easy to blend) or the YSL Touche Eclat. The other ones shown above are also ones I’ve loved, but right now I’ve been sticking to the Natasha Denona one most of the time.

I have been very curious about the Haus Labs Triclone Skin Tech Concealer and will be picking it up during the sale.

Best Foundation/Skin Tints

Dior Forever Skin Perfect Foundation Stick 3N

I love that there wide range of base formulas and coverage for every skin type and preference. My top three most-used foundations from Sephora are the Armani Luminous Silk Foundation (I wear Shade 6.5), Dior Forever Skin Perfect Foundation Stick (I wear 2.5N or 3N, swatches here) and the Westman Atelier Vital Skin Foundation Stick (my shades range from V, VI to VII depending how tan I am).

I also really love the It Cosmetics CC+ Nude Glow. For a more natural looking tint I love the Summer Fridays Skin Tint and Fenty Eaze Drop Blurring Skin Tints.

Best Setting Products

Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Powder Medium | The Beauty Look Book

My go-to powder is the Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Finish Setting Powder. For a loose setting powder I think the Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder remains a classic and I really love the Makeup by Mario Setting Products. I love the way his SurrealSkin Soft Blur Setting Powder looks on the skin (definitely splurge on his puff). His SurrealSkin Soft Setting Spray is also a really good one.

The old version of the Givenchy Prisme Libre was 10/10 but I haven’t looked at the new one after reading so many bad reviews. I do have a few newer ones on my wishlist that I want to check out during the sale including the Givenchy Prisme Libre Pressed Powder, YSL All Hours Hyper Blur Loose and maybe the Kosas Cloud Set Loose Powder.

Best Bronzers/Contour

Armani Luminous Silk Bronzer + Prisma Glass

The best contour products I’ve tried from Sephora are the Rare Beauty Warm Wishes Effortless Cream Bronzer Stick and Westman Atelier Face Trace Contour Stick. These have the best undertones for my skin tone, most other brands run too warm or cool. Swatches + comparisons in this post here.

For a bronzer my favorite has been the Armani Luminous Silk Creamy Bronzing Powder in 100 or 110 (review here). I also still really love the Hourglass Ambient Lighting Bronzer for that soft glowy bronze. Gucci Sun-Kissed Glow Bronzer in Shade 3 is also a really good one.

The Ilia Sunshift Weightless Silky Cream Bronzer is one of my favorite shimmery cream bronzers for the color + finish, but it’s more like a highlighter on my skin rather than a bronzer due to the shimmers. Swatches here.

There are lots of new bronzer formulas I have on my list to try. They’ve been packed away in moving boxes but I hope to review them before the sale ends! I do have the Dior Forever Nude Jumbo Bronzer in 20 and 30. I am curious about the new Haus Labs Powder Sculpt Velvet Powder Bronzers, hoping that one of the new shades will work for me!

Best Blush Formulas

YSL Make Me Blush 24H Buildable Powder Blush

I think I could write an entire series dedicated to blushes. I’m still 100% a powder blush lover. If I could only pick 3 powder blushes to recommend I think the YSL Make Me Blush Powder Blush (review + swatches here) is one of the best new powder blush formulas. I also still really love the Gucci Luminous Matte Beauty Blush (reviewed here and here) and Dior Rosy Glow Blush is also a favorite (swatches here).

Natasha Denona Hy-Blush Cloudy Cream Cheek Duo

Out of the newer blush launches I think the new Tower28 GetSet Blur + Set Matte Powder Blush (swatched here) and Saie SuperSuede Powder Blushes (tried on here) are solid wins. Formulas wear beautifully. I don’t love all the shades they launched but I do really love the colors I tried. The Tower28 is a true matte finish but doesn’t look flat. The Saie SuperSuede has more of a satin finish and it’s easy to layer and blend, but overall has a soft vibe.

For a cream/liquid blush formula Armani Luminous Silk Cheek Tints, Natasha Denona Hy-Blush (review here) and Huda Blush Filter (one reviewed here) are my favorites for the formula and color selection.

I plan on buying some of the new Westman Atelier blush duos during the sale to try!

Highlighters I Love

Dior Forever Glow Maximizer Longwear Liquid Highlighter swatches

I’ve been more into glowy blush for a glow rather than a traditional highlighter, but I really love the Dior Forever Glow Maximizers (Nude and Peachy are my favorites, swatches here). The Westman Atelier Super Loaded Tint Peau de Peche highlighter is also a staple – champagne bronzey tones are hard to find for me and this one is just perfect. Swatches in this post here.

Eyeshadow Favorites

Tom Ford Peach Glamour Eyeshadow Quad

My eyeshadow picks are my same go-to’s lately. I feel the need to find something fresh and new to change up my beauty looks, but my top 5 eyeshadow palettes are the Tom Ford Eye Color Quad in Peach Glamour, Tom Ford Golden Hour, Makeup by Mario Master Mattes, Natasha Denona I Need a Warm Nude and the Too Faced Born This Way Natural Nudes.

Natasha Denona I Need a Warm Palette

If I had to pick just one eyeshadow brand to wear Natasha Denona wins hands down. Her palettes are the ones I reach for nearly every single day.

For single shadows I still swear by the Charlotte Tilbury Eyes to Mesmerize (I wear Rose Gold the most) and the Armani Eye Tints in 44S Blush or 22M are my favorites. I think I might pick up a couple more colors during the sale.

Eye Makeup Staples (Liner, Brow, Mascara)

My favorite eyeliners actually aren’t available at Sephora (they’re from Sisley or Victoria Beckham Beauty). But for brows there are TONS of great options at Sephora.

I love Benefit Precisely My Brow (I wear Shade 3), Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz (Caramel) and Glossier Boy Brow Arch Pencil (Cool Brown) the best for brows. My most-used pencils are from ABH because Caramel is the best color for me. My natural hair color is almost black but my brows are a lot lighter so matching something to my hair usually ends up looking too harsh but Caramel is the best color for me. As much as I love the Glossier one there’s not much product in the pencil and I think I used an entire pencil in 3 weeks.

Best Lip Liners

New Tom Ford Lip Liner

Now onto my favorite category: lips! I love a good lip pencil and layering lip products are always fun, but these days I have been so low maintenance I usually wear 1 product on my lips at a time.

I still think the Charlotte Tilbury Lip Cheat is the best lip liner for my lip tone. I know everyone probably already owns Pillow Talk, but it’s still my go-to favorite pink neutral (swatches here). I’ve also been really impressed with the Fenty Trace’d Out Longwear Lip Liners (swatches here), Huda Lip Contour 2.0 (swatches here), Glossier Lip Line (swatches of my picks here) and Tom Ford Long Wear Lip Liners (swatches here).

If I could only recommend 2 to try during the sale, I’d say splurge on the Tom Ford or Fenty options. I did pick up some of the Merit Signature Lip Sheer Lip Liners but with my life in moving boxes this past month I haven’t had a chance to try them.

Best Lipsticks

New Tom Ford Lip Color Lipstick + Lip Pencils

My top 6 lipstick formulas at Sephora include the Tom Ford Lip Color (new formula + colors reviewed here), Fenty Gloss Bomb Stix (I prefer the cream ones reviewed here), Prada Monochrome Soft Matte (I love P158 Meranti), YSL Rouge Pur Couture (swatches + review here), Westman Atelier Lip Suede (review here and also here) and the NARS Afterglow Sensual Shine Hydrating Lipstick.

Best Lip Balms/Oils

YSL Candy Glaze Lip Gloss Stick Review

YSL makes some of the prettiest tinted lip balms, I love all the formulas, but my favorite is the Candy Glaze (review here and new shades here) or Candy Glow (swatches here) for the best lasting power, pigment and shine.

For a tinted lip balm or oil I have so many favorites. For a squeeze tube format balm the Summer Fridays Lip Butter is always in my bag. I have all the colors but love the Vanilla Beige the most (swatches here). The Gisou Honey Infused Hydrating Lip Oils are super fun but the pigment is ultra sheer (new shades in action here).

For a twist up/click style balm I do still really love the Tarte Maracuja Juicy Lips (all the formulas are great) and the Hourglass Phantom Volumizing Glossy Balm colors cannot be beat (new shades reviewed here).

Best Lip Gloss

Dior Glowmania Addict Lip Maximizer Lip Gloss

For lip gloss I’m still sticking to my top 5 go-to’s! The Fenty Gloss Bomb is still a favorite and I plan on picking up the new Gloss Bomb Oil shades tomorrow! The Dior Addict Lip Maximizer is my most-worn and most-reached-for gloss. I’ve been really impressed with the Huda Faux Filler Lip Gloss (swatches here), I think all the colors are flattering and wearable. Pat McGrath remains a favorite for the best smooth non-sticky gloss although so many shades are out of stock, I don’t know if it’s just sold out or being phased out.

Tools/Misc

Hourglass Makeup Brushes

For tools I wish there was just one brand I could find all my favorite brushes from, but unfortunately I have to mix tools from different brands. Overall I think the Hourglass brushes are top notch for both powder and cream products. I really love the No 15 Blush Brush for cream brushes and the Vanish Foundation Brush for bases and the Concealer Brush is excellent. I splurged on the travel brush set during a previous sale a few years ago and it was 100% worth the splurge.

Ilia brushes are SO under-rated, I hope they expand their brush range. I really love the Sculpting Brush and Finishing Powder Brush.

I think the Glossier Lip Liner Sharper is a must. The design to catch the shavings is large enough that you don’t have to empty it every single time. It’s also great for travel.

It seems as though a lot of my go-to powder puffs have changed and aren’t as soft as they used to be (I’m talking about repurchases not being the same). I really love the Makeup By Mario Master Pro Puff though. It’s big enough to cover a decent amount on the face without having to dab a million times and it’s ultra soft.

Another must-have I swear by is the Sephora Collection Daily Brush Cleaner. Since it’s on the spendy side I usually wash my brushes with Dawn Dish Soap and a scrubbing pad. But for cream products can be difficult to remove all the way. After I give them a rinse with warm water and dish soap. I’ll spritz the Sephora Brush cleaner to soak the brush. If you try it will be AMAZED at how much foundation, cream blush or eyeshadow come out, even AFTER washing it with soap + water.

That wraps up my makeup favorites and staples! If you’re shopping the sale let me know what you plan on picking up! I’m hosting a giveaway here on my blog. I’m going to send FIVE readers each a $100 eGift card to Sephora. Open to everyone 18+ but do note that the gift card will be to the Sephora US site only. Follow the steps in the widget below for a chance to win. I’ll pick a winner on Wednesday April 9th and email the winners directly.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Sales Ulta

Ulta 21 Days of Beauty – Spring 2025

March 8, 2025

Ulta 21 Days of Beauty

Ulta Beauty’s 21 Days of Beauty Event is live and runs through March 27th with 50% off tons of items with different beauty deals every day and also weekly steals. I shared a come shopping with me video on Friday with the deals on my radar. In case you missed the first day there are still lots of new sales coming every day. I think this is the first time I’ve seen such big discounts of 50% off.

Ulta has their upcoming deals listed on their website so you can preview the sale and also plan your shopping in advance. Here are some I have on my radar (there are tons more online):

Today’s Steals 3/8

Ulta 21 Days of Beauty Deals - 50% off March 8

on sale 50% off today only

_________

Sunday March 9th Steals (prices will be marked down automatically on the sale date)

_________

Monday March 10th

_________

Tuesday March 11th

_________

Wednesday March 12th

_________

What I hauled from Ulta, details linked here (some of these were only on sale yesterday March 7th)

Ulta 21 Days of Beauty - sale haul Sabrina's Picks

There are tons more deals and previews on Ulta’s website! Lancome Idole Lash Lifting Mascara is going to be on sale March 14th, Tarte Maracuja Juicy Lip Shimmer Glass will be marked down March 15th (swatches here). One of my favorite brow pencils the Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz Pencil will be on sale March 16th.

LTK x Ulta Masterclass with Sabrina

Also wanted to let you know I will be co-hosting a Webinar with LTK and Ulta Beauty on March 11th. We’ll be talking about my creator journey, some industry insights and I’ll be sharing favorites for a spring makeup refresh. I know some of you have followed along from the very early days before I even showed my face online! But if you’re new, are thinking about becoming a creator and want some tips on how to get started you can RSVP here.

Hauls Sephora

Sephora Haul Picks for Spring

January 30, 2025

Sephora Haul New Spring launches 2025 January

I have a Sephora haul with a look at some new launches along with some repurchases I made recently. I shared a mini haul on Instagram Stories a week ago and a number of you asked for a blog review with swatches so I have them rounded up today! You can watch the quick haul and try-on here if you still want to see the items in action!

New Spring Lip Launches

I hauled quite a few of the new lip launches and there are so many I haven’t had a chance to try all of them yet. If you want a more detailed review on any of these let me know in the comments!

Makeup by Mario launched a new Hydrating SuperShine Lip Gloss ($26 each). These are sheer glosses with a thick texture. I have mixed feelings about these. I think the tones he created are stunning but the pigment is very sheer and texture is on the thick side with a sticky feel. I don’t mind the formula, but the colors pull so sheer on me and I would have really loved to see more color payoff. I picked up Sunlit, Watermelon, Rose Crush, Rosewater, Perfect Pink with the brightest one Watermelon being my favorite color. They have a strong vanilla scent I find pleasant.

Makeup By Mario Supershine Lip Gloss Haul

Makeup By Mario Supershine Lip Gloss Haul swatches

Dior reformulated their Addict Lip Glow Balm ($40) yet again and while I find all the reformulations a little confusing, I have to say the newest version is really good. A few past options have been a little waxy feeling but this 2025 version applies smoother and is noticeably more hydrating on me. I picked up a few shades in Candy, Mahogany, Soft Nude and Rosewood. So far I’ve only had a chance to play with Candy which is a shimmery pink and has a subtle color shifting effect for a warm pink on my lips. These have the same minty feeling with a slight cooling sensation.

below left to right: Candy, Rosewood, Soft Nude and Mahogany

Dior Addict Lip Glow new formula 2025

Dior launched several new shades of the Addict Lip Maximizer Gloss ($40) in their spring Glowmania collection. I shared a demo of the new shades here and I think every shade is beautiful. (One of the shades Nudemania appears to be exclusive to Dior.com but the rest are at Sephora.)

Dior Glowmania Addict Lip Maximizer Lip Gloss

Dior Glowmania Addict Lip Maximizer Lip Gloss swatches

New Huda Launches

Huda launched a mini collection of lilac pink items and I picked up two of them. I love the idea of lilac pink makeup but find I can rarely wear the colors. This collection has changed that for me! The Faux Filler Lip Gloss ($21) in UUU Baby is one of the best sheer pinks I’ve ever tried and I am in love with the Huda Blush Filter ($23) in Ube Cream.

New Huda Beauty UUU Baby Faux Filler Gloss and Ube Cream Blush Filter

I tried the liquid blush in store over the summer and thought they would be too dewy but I have to say I’m really loving the pink one and might check out more. It blends out so nicely and easily. It does look dewy on the skin but so far it’s been staying put very well. You can see them in action here. I added swatch comparisons to her other pink glosses which I really love (they’re smooth and truly non-sticky).

New Huda Beauty UUU Baby Faux Filler Gloss and Ube Cream Blush Filter swatches

Complexion / Face

I never really knew how to make the Saie Glowy Super Gel Illuminators ($16 to $28) work for me until a few of you told me you mix it in with your foundation and I’m in love with the result. This dry season I’ve been wanting my bases to be a little more glowy and a little more sheered out and these gels from Saie do just the trick.

Saie Glowy Supergel Rose Glow and Warm Glow

They launched a new shade in Warmglow which is a champagne gold. I restocked the mini in Roseglow which is a lovely pink shimmer. I wish they made a medium in-between size because I find the regular size too large while the minis get used up too fast.

If your foundation has been looking or feeling a little dry but you don’t want to switch up your skincare, I recommend adding 1-2 pumps of this into your liquid foundation.

New Hair Pick + Some Repurchases

Sephora repurchases and restocks Tarte, Pat McGrath, Glossier, ABH, K18

I picked up the mini of the K18 AirWash Dry Shampoo ($24 for the mini) at the checkout area as an impulse buy and I really like it. It’s different from most dry shampoos I’ve tried. The formula seems more liquid/fluid when you spray it on the hair (ie it’s not really an aerosol). I love that it’s clear and doesn’t have any white cast on my hair. Does a great job at absorbing excess oil on Day 2 hair. It kept my hair looking refreshed throughout the day. I don’t know how long it lasts past 24 hours because I’m still the type of person who has to wash her hair almost daily (I’ll go 2 days max without washing my hair). Overall really love this.

I restocked a few things including the Pat McGrath Skin Fetish Foundation ($69) in LM14, Benefit Precisely My Brow ($27) in Shade 2.5, Anastasia Brow Definer ($26) in Caramel and the Tarte Tartelette Tubing Mascara XL ($27). The Glossier Lip Line Longwear Lip Pencil ($18) is the best new lip liner formula I tried in 2024 and I repurchased Grip which is a my-lips-but-better rose. The formula has really good color payoff and I love the tones.

New Blushes + Highlighter + Contour

Blushes seem to have taken over the spring launches right now. I picked up a few of the YSL Make Me Blush Powder Blushes ($45 each) and shared a demo here. These have two finishes right now: matte and shimmer. I prefer the shimmer ones but they’re all very good. The formula is soft and pigmented but they are really easy to blend and build. Pigment is easy to control so if you just want a hint of blush you can get a more diffused look.

YSL Make Me Blush Buildable Powder Blush

YSL Make Me Blush Buildable Powder Blush

Natasha Denona also launched her Hy-Blush Cloudy Cream Cheek Duo ($42 each) which has a highlighter and cream blush in one compact. I’ll review and swatch them all soon.

Natasha Denona HyBlush

Patrick Ta added four new shades of the Major Headlines Double-Take Duo ($38 each) but I’m probably going to pass on these (I still think his shade Not Too Much reviewed here is the best neutral).

Urban Decay launched their Face Bond Luminizer Waterproof Glow Drops ($34 each) and I’ve been loving the Space Cowboy shade for the perfect champagne glow highlight and PCH is a really pretty one too. These are multi-taskers you can use a number of ways. I am still experimenting with these but thought I’d share quick swatches here.

Urban Decay Face Bond Luminizer Waterproof Glow Drops

Urban Decay Face Bond Luminizer Waterproof Glow Drops

Neutral Eyeshadow Palette

I’ve been wearing the Anastasia Beverly Hills Mini Spice Palette  ($29) in a few looks and a number of you asked for swatches. I actually picked this up last year but realized I never swatched it on the blog. I really like the tones and the mix of mattes and shimmers. There a few true mattes in this palette and then some that have a tiny bit of sparkle embedded in them. The pure mattes are smooth and buttery with excellent pigment and color payoff. The mattes that have a tiny bit of sparkle pull sheerer but you can still build them for full pigment.

I do think the shimmer and glitters are prone to fall out if you don’t pat them on the lids or pack them on. You’ll have to do some clean up from the fall out but for me the good news is that once they are on the eyes they don’t migrate.

Anastasia Beverly Hills Mini Spice Palette

Anastasia Beverly Hills Mini Spice Palette swatches

As much as I like it, I do think there are better options out there for quality. If you’re looking for a good everyday neutral with mattes and shimmers I still think the Natasha Denona I Need a Nude or I Need a Warm and the Too Faced Born This Way Natural Nudes are better buys. I know the Too Faced palettes have been around forever but out of all the launches over the years, it’s still a solid staple of mine.

That wraps up my Sephora haul roundup! Let me know if you want a detailed review on any of these. I will have a full blog post on the YSL and Natasha Denona blushes soon!

What have you hauled this January? Any good finds, new loves or misses?