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Sales Sephora

Best Makeup To Shop During the Sephora Sale 2025

October 31, 2025

The Sephora Savings Event for Holiday starts today with first access for Rouge Members! Use code EVERYTHING to save when shopping online, these are the details per tier:

All Sephora Collection 30% off: 10/31 – 11/10
Rouge members 20% off: 10/31 – 11/10
VIBs 15% off: 11/4 – 11/10
Insiders 10% off: 11/4 – 11/10

I’m rounding up my staples and favorites by category. I tried to narrow each category down to my Top 3, but there are a few sections I have more than 3 favorites.

Best Primers

These are my favorite primers. I try to find ones that multi-task (ie has SPF, adds hydration or glow.

Charlotte Tilbury Invisible UV Flawless Primer SPF 50 – love this for the combined high spf and primer formula
Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter – this is still the best glowy multi-tasker to wear under foundation or on top of the cheekbones, I use Shade 3 or 4, sometimes 4.5, swatches here
YSE Beauty Skin Glow SPF 30 Primer – works well as a primer with SPF under makeup, it has a soft peachy rose tint with a tiny bit of glow to it but disappears on the skin, love the medium fluid consistency (it’s not too thin but not too thick)
Saie Glowy Super Gel – love Roseglow under foundation, if you need something hydrating and found the Charlotte Tilbury too shimmery, this is a great option that is glowy but not too shimmery (love this Mini Glowy Super Gel Trio Set)
Bobbi Brown Vitamin Enriched Face Base – a classic multi-tasking moisturizer + primer in one

Best Foundation Formulas

I’ve split the foundation and skin tint bases into a few different categories based on formula.

Best Skin Tints/Sheer

Rare Beauty Positive Light Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20 – I think this is one of the most highly under-rated tinted moisturizers for the consistency and coverage, it’s lightweight, natural in coverage and blends easily, I use 24N
Fenty Eaze Drop Blurring Skin Tint – another staple I really like for a satin finish skin tint
Summer Fridays Sheer Skin Tint – the best ultra sheer glowy hydrating formula I’ve tried
It Cosmetics CC+ Nude Glow SPF40 – another staple I love and the best CC+ formula I’ve tried, I wear Medium Tan

Best Medium Coverage

Armani Luminous Silk Foundation Shade 6.5 – This is a holy grail for life! My most repurchased foundation tied with Chanel formulas, love the LSF for that natural medium coverage with a subtle glow
Natasha Denona Hy-Glam Foundation N8 – best new hydrating foundation formula of the year, see it in action here
Makeup By Mario SurrealSkin Natural Finish Foundation – formula is on the thicker side but still easy to blend, love this medium to full coverage satin finish foundation, I mix 12O and 14N

Best Stick Foundations

Dior Forever Skin Perfect Foundation Stick Shade 3N – This is the best foundation stick I’ve tried, glides on with absolute perfection, swatch comparisons here
Westman Atelier Vital Skin Foundation Stick V or VI – Another classic that I’ve used for years, I wear V right now
Charlotte Tilbury Unreal Skin Sheer Glow Tint Foundation Stick – When this first came out I was very skeptical of using this because of how glowy it was. I did not think it could be used all over the face like a foundation. Thanks to so many of you who urged me to give it a try. I love it. You can use it almost like an all over primer or just in certain areas of the face, then top with concealer or regular foundation. I bought Shade 7.5 when I was tan, I will most likely pick up a lighter shade during the sale.

Best Concealers

Natasha Denona Hy-Glam Brightening Concealer N9 – This is the best concealer I’ve tried. The formula wears well as a brightener, doesn’t crease and also works to spot conceal. I use several shades, right now I use either N8 or N9.
YSL Touche Eclat Awakening Concealer Pen Shade 3 – This is the best brightening concealer for the under eye area.
NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer Ginger – Another lifetime favorite for under the eyes or anywhere you need to conceal redness. It’s creamy and so easy to blend.
NARS Soft Matte Concealer Ginger (best for spot concealing) – I just rediscovered this formula and love it for spot concealing.

Best Setting Powders

I’ve split my favorites into pressed and loose versions. To this day I still prefer a pressed format for convenience, but I find that loose powder applied with a puff last longer.

Loose Powder Favorites

Laura Mercier Ultra-Blur Talc Free Translucent Loose Setting Powder – This is the setting powder formula that gets me the most compliments. Anytime I use Translucent or Rose people always say that my skin looks flawless. It’s really not these days but this powder really does work to blur the skin beautifully. I use the Makeup by Mario Powder Puff with this one.
YSL All Hours Hyper Blur Loose Setting Powder – I bought 02 Fair Medium back in April and really like it. It blurs, sets and doesn’t darken. I might try the Translucent formula since my skin tone is a bit lighter right now.

Pressed Setting Powders

Dior Forever Nude Matte or Luminescent Pressed – I tried both the Nude Powder 02 Light and the Radiant Filter formulas and find myself reaching for these frequently. Luminescent in action here. However if you’re sensitive to fragrance I’d skip these as they are both heavily scented.
Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Blurring Powder – Forever my holy grail pressed powder, I use Medium.
Pat McGrath Skin Fetish Sublime Perfection Blurring Under Eye Powder – This is the best under eye setting powder. I love using it to set concealer as it blurs + sets without looking heavy or dry.

Setting Spray Loves

I don’t find myself using a setting spray very often these days, but the ones I have tried and like are from Charlotte Tilbury, Makeup by Mario and NARS. All of these are lightweight with an ultra fine mist.

Best Bronzers

My bronzer favorites are still the same as they’ve been for years. I keep hoping for another new formulation to fall in love with, but I keep sticking with these for the tones and formula.

Armani Luminous Silk Creamy Bronzing Powder – review + swatches here
Patrick Ta Major Sculpt Crème Contour + Powder Duo – I love She’s Sculpted
Gucci Sun-Kissed Glow Bronzer – I love Shade 3, review + swatches here
Drunk Elephant D-Bronzi – This is the best all over natural bronze tint for me, I know the Westman Atelier Suntone Drops are also very popular, but I have never really mastered the application, the Drunk Elephant blends a lot easier for me

Contour

I tend to use bronzer as a contour instead of a traditional contour, but three I really like because of the tones

Rare Beauty Warm Wishes Effortless Cream Bronzer Stick – This one has the tones and format for me. Blends well without disappearing once you blend. I love the shade Happy Sol or Always Sunny.
Westman Atelier Face Trace Cream Contour Stick – I use the middle shade Truffle for contouring.
LYS No Limits Cream Bronzer + Contour Stick – Another stand out formula I think is highly under-rated, I like the shade Harmony.

Best Blushes

Also split my recommendations between powder and cream/liquid. I usually prefer a powder format for lasting power.

Favorite Powder Formulas

YSL Make Me Blush – This is my favorite blush formula this year. 44 Nude Lavalliere is the best shade. Review here.
Dior Rosy Glow Powder Blush – Love the new Dior blushes they launched this year. Review + swatches here.
Patrick Ta Major Headlines Double Take Crème Powder Blush Duo – Rediscovered these recently and forgot how much I love the tones. I think Not Too Much is the best neutral, She Goes to the Gym is the best mauve, She’s That Girl is the best pink duo (also comes in a mini now).
- The new Holiday Patrick’s Glow and Gloss Duos are STUNNING! You can See the Ice me Down Set in action here. QUICK TIP – if you see something sold out online, I highly recommend using the Buy Online Pick Up In Store option. It will help you locate items near you in case they are popular and sell out quickly.
Valentino Eye2Cheek Eyeshadow + Blush – Another stunning win for that beautiful flushed glow. I think Shades 03 and 04 are the best ones.

Favorite Cream or Liquid Formats

Armani Luminous Silk Cheek Tint – This is still the best formula for a liquid blush. It’s flawless and long lasting. The shine shades are nice too, but the matte formula is better for lasting power. Review + swatches here.
Hourglass Unreal Liquid Blush wins for the best tones and formula. These are on the dewy side but this year my skin has been exceptionally dry so I’ve been loving them. Review + swatches here.
Rhode Pocket Blush – I still really love these. Freckle is the best everyday neutral. Swatches + review here.

Highlighter Loves

Charlotte Tilbury Beauty Highlighter Wand – I still don’t think it gets better than these for that classic liquid highlighter. They’re currently marked down at Sephora as an added bonus! Swatches here.
Dior Forever Glow Maximizer – I also love these, I think Nude and Pink are the best colors. Swatches here.
Hourglass Ambient Lighting Edit Unlocked Palettes – For a powder highlighter, most of my favorites have now been discontinued, but I’ve been loving the ones in the Hourglass Ambient Lighting Edit Unlocked Palettes this year! Swatches of the 2025 palettes here.

Eyeshadow Palettes

Natasha Denona wins for the best eyeshadow palettes still. If I could only have two palettes the rest of my life I would be 100% happy with I Need a Warm Eyeshadow Palette (review here) and her I Need a Nude Eyeshadow Palette (review here).
Makeup by Mario Master Mattes Original – My holy grail matte eyeshadow palette for neutral warm mattes. I feel like this is my most reached for palette this year.
Patrick Ta Major Dimension Essential Artistry Edit Eyeshadow Palettes – I absolutely LOVE these new ones from Patrick Ta. The mattes are exceptionally good. I wish his brand would reformulate all of the prior palettes to have this exact formula. They’re smooth, easy to blend and pigment is 10/10. I like Medium the best, but also love Deep.

Best Cream Eyeshadow

Charlotte Tilbury Eyes to Mesmerize – This the best creamy eyeshadow formula. I love the Rose Gold shade.
Armani Eye Tints – Also a great one and done kind of formula. I think the shade 44S Blush is the best rose gold and 22M Cashew is the best neutral matte tan.
Laura Mercier Caviar Stick Cream Eyeshadow – I will have a lifelong love for these! I still wish they kept the color Copper, but I love these. Swatches + review of the new formula here.
Makeup By Mario Master Mattes Long-Wearing Cream Shadow – These really surprised me since I don’t usually like matte cream shadows, but I think this formula is the best I’ve ever tried.
Merit Solo Shadow Cream Eyeshadow – I really want to check out the shimmer shades! I tried a few of the original mattes and Vachetta is the best matte lid shade for me and still is. Just make sure you close the lids ALL THE WAY or else they will dry out.

Go-To Brow Products

My top four brow products are the:

I recently bought the ABH MicroStroke Detailing Brow Pen and love it. I’m still trying to master the application but after trying several pens and hating them all (some of the colors looked straight up green on me) a friend recommended the ABH one and she was 100% right about the tones and formula.

Mascara Favorites

I feel like I need to expand my mascara rotation this year. I’ve been sticking to three tried and true formulas which I still really love, but I think I need to change things up a bit.

Tarte Tartelette Tubing Mascara or the Tubing XL Lengthening formula
YSL Lash Clash
Diorshow Iconic Overcurl Mascara (just ordered this Diorshow Volume Mascara and Primer Set with the primer and a different formula)

Favorite Lipsticks

I have so many lipstick loves. It’s hard to narrow down my favorites, but if I had to pick my top 5:

Dior Rouge Dior On Stage in 120 Iconic Rose is the best neutral pink, review here, see it in action here.
NARS Afterglow Sensual Shine Hydrating Lipstick – I love how this formula glides on seamlessly, has a hydrating feel and pigment is perfect. I really wish they would launch more shades in this formula. Swatches here and also here.
Prada Monochrome Soft Matte Lipstick – The best matte lipstick formula I’ve tried! I think the best shade is B101 Tiepolo and P158 Meranti.
Fenty Gloss Bomb Stix – These are on the thick side, but I love them. They made my favorites list several times and I love the colors and formula. Cream finish swatches here. Shimmer Glitter ones here.

Best Liquid Lipstick

I’m still not really into liquid lipsticks since most are matte and I prefer some kind of shine or gloss, but I do think Dior makes beautiful ones!

Dior Rouge Dior Forever Liquid Lipstick
Dior Rouge Dior Sequin Liquid Lip Duo – not all the shades are available at Sephora, but you can see them in action here
Refy Lip Stick – this isn’t your traditional liquid lipstick, it’s more creamy and satin in finish, swatches here

Favorite Tinted Lip Balms/Oils

This is another favorite category of mine. I’ll link the swatches I’ve posted of each formula.

YSL Candy Glaze Lip Gloss Stick (review here and holiday shades here)
Guerlain Kiss Kiss Bee Glow Lip Oil – This is the best lip oil formula. Swatches + review here.
Tarte Maracuja Juicy Lip Plump (but I really love any of the formulas) – Review + swatches here of the Shimmer Shades. More Juicy Plump swatches here.
NARS Afterglow Lip Tinted Lip Balms – My favorite swipe and go tinted balm.
Hourglass Phantom Volumizing Glossy Balm – Another favorite for the colors and formula. Swatches here and also here.

Lip Liner

Tom Ford Runway Lip Liner Pencil – The best long wear pencil that glides on the lips easily. Swatches here.
Fenty Trace’d Out Longwer Lip Liner – Another great long-wear formula! Swatches here.
Dior Rouge Contour – Just rediscovered this and they have some really great tones. I like 100 and also 329.

Best Lip Gloss Formulas

The best gloss formulas ranked by how often I wear them:

Dior Addict Lip Maximizer – The best for formula and colors. Swatches here.
Fenty Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer – A long time favorite, I feel like I’ve tried almost all the colors! Fu$$y and Sweet Mouth are my favorites.
Pat McGrath LUST Gloss – The best smooth non-sticky gloss.
Lawless Forget the Filler Lip Gloss – I don’t love all the shades in this formula, but I do like the cream ones like Cherry Vanilla and Velvet.
Huda Faux Filler Shiny Lip Gloss – Another great smooth gloss formula, swatches here

Favorite Makeup Tools

Quick mention on some tools that I really love that are available at Sephora.

Hourglass Travel Brush Set – I bought this several years ago during the Sephora Sale and it was 100% worth the splurge. This set includes the full-size options.
Ilia Brushes – These are SO under-rated, I really hope they make a full line of brushes. I think every one I’ve tried is 10/10 incredible.
Glossier Lip Pencil Sharpener – Not the most exciting tool, but this is the best sharpener I’ve found. The way they designed the container makes it perfect to carry in your makeup bag or for travel.
Makeup By Mario Powder Puff – Not all puffs are the same. Many of my favorites seem to have changed texture but the Makeup By Mario one is ultra soft and I love the size and shape.
Sephora Collection Brush Cleaner – This is the best cleaner to clean creams from your brushes (foundation, concealer, eyeshadow, blush etc.). Since it is spendy I recommend using the Dawn Powerwash Dish Spray first with a brush pad. For those stubborn creams I will then use the Sephora Brush Cleaner and it works wonders to remove cream products.
Sephora Collection Cotton – Another staple I swear by. I do love the plush cotton from other brands, but this one is my most-repurchased one.

That wraps up my extensive makeup favorites roundup! Stay tuned for the roundup for other categories very soon! Use code EVERYTHING to save when shopping online, these are the details per tier:

All Sephora Collection 30% off: 10/31 – 11/10
Rouge members 20% off: 10/31 – 11/10
VIBs 15% off: 11/4 – 11/10
Insiders 10% off: 11/4 – 11/10

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Lips Sephora

Merit Holiday Sets 2025

October 3, 2025

Merit Holiday Sets are here! I picked up the Mini Flush Blush Balm Trio ($39) and the Archival Lip Essentials Gift Set ($52). Both are available now at Sephora. You can see both in action here and here in case you want a live demo.

Archival Lip Essentials Gift Set

The Archival Lip Essentials Gift Set has three full-sized lip items with a new mauve shade called Archival. The set includes a Signature Lip Lightweight Lip Blush, Signature Lip Sheer Lip Liner and the Tinted Lip Oil.

The pencil and lipstick both pull very cool toned on me. I wasn’t sure they would work for my skin and lip tone since most cool colors look greyish on me, but they work! And the gloss really pulls the entire look together.

The Merit Signature Lip Sheer Lip Liner is very different from any other liner on the market. It’s almost like a glossy crayon in lipliner form. Unique for sure and nice for those who like a minimalist look. I love that they glide on the lips and have that glossy finish. Lasting power isn’t quite as long as a matte, but I think they’re really interesting.

The Lip Blush has a very lightweight feel, it’s a subtle kind of lip product but pigment is still very good. Texture is smooth even though it’s matte. This is very different from their other Signature Lipsticks. I tried their lipsticks a while ago when they launched and wasn’t a fan. They felt a little to waxy for my taste, but I might give them another look since so many of you love them. The new Lip Blush in this set is almost like a diffused matte lip tint instead of a regular lipstick. I’m still a glossy lip lover at heart, but I do like the texture and finish of the Lip Blush.

Lip Oils are nice for a subtle tint. These also pull on the sheer side for me but I really like them on top of a lipstick to add dimension and shine. They are very thin in texture so they’re not sticky. Also since the texture is thin they won’t have very long lasting power, but they do stay on longer when you pair them with a lipstick or liner.

I shared a demo of the lipliner and oils in this post here back in April. I don’t think I did a blog post on these so I swatched the shades I have so you can see the new Archival tones next to some of the existing colors.

Mini Flush Blush Balm Trio

I’ve had such mixed feelings about the Merit cream blushes because they’re usually too dewy and sheer for my skin but so many of you asked for a review on this year’s Mini Flush Blush Balm Trio Set. This year has definitely been a transition year for me with our move, aging and skin changes and it’s been noticeably more dry. I’m still in the process of finding a dermatologist since we moved, but since it’s been more dry I can wear more creams.

I think these are so cute but I still think they are too dewy and creamy for my taste. They’re fun for a pretty flush of color and if you’re into cream blushes that blend to a sheer tint or like that dewy look then I think you’ll really like them.

I will be able to wear these for a night out but will most likely have to top them with a powder blush to set. For a dewy cream blush I think the Dior Backstage Rosy Glow Blush Sticks are better. For something that isn’t quite as dewy the Victoria Beckham Cheeky Posh Cream Blush Sticks or Westman Atelier Baby Cheeks are better options (for me).

Le Bonbon is a bright but sheered out pink

Redux is a tan brown shade

Postmodern is a wine colored berry kind of stain

I really love the look with these blended out, I just wish they weren’t as dewy looking. A satin or semi matte finish would be 100% perfect for me.

If you’ve had your eye on these I hope this review is helpful! You can find these now at Sephora.

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Sales Ulta

Ulta 21 Days of Beauty Sale

September 5, 2025

I have a sale alert to share! It’s one that’s too good to pass up! Ulta is having their 21 Days of Beauty Sale again and they have some amazing deals with different daily deals 50% off. I shared a tutorial with everything on sale this week here. In case you don’t follow on social I wanted to highlight some of the deals here too.

The sale is a little different from most retail sales since they have 1-day offers on select items, but I do think 50% off is the biggest discount I’ve seen from any retailer so I do think it’s worth checking out and marking your calendar.

Ulta has shared a preview of upcoming sales by date so you can browse all the deals in advance here. They also have select items are on sale for a full week, although most of the sales happen for one day only.

My peachy pink makeup look with the sale dates:

Bobbi Brown Weightless Skin Foundation in Natural – on sale 9/5
It Cosmetics for Ulta Brush #115 – on sale 9/5
Tarte Creaseless Setting Powder – on sale 9/10
Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Definer Medium Brown – on sale 9/6
REM Midnight Eyeshadow Palette in Babydoll – on sale 9/5
Stila Liquid Eyeliner – on sale 9/5
Tartelette Tubing Mascara XL – on sale 9/6
Live Tinted Huebeam Gradient Blushing Bronzer Sonoran Sunrise – on sale 9/6
ABH Glow Seeker in Sun Idol – on sale 9/11
MAC M·A·Cximal Matte in Kinda Sexy – on sale 9/6
Buxom Full On Plumping Lip Polish in April – on sale 9/5

I also picked up some of the Clinique Lip Oils ahead of the sale date, but they will also be 50% off on Sunday 9/7. The Almost Lipstick in Black Honey still remains a cult classic, I remember wearing this in my college days! I love seeing them expand the line to other variations and formulas. The Lip Oils are beautiful and I think the Black Honey shade is a great color for those who want something a little more dressy but still subtle.

Sales on my radar (you can browse all the deals here):

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Sales Ulta

Ulta Beauty Big Summer Beauty Sale

July 18, 2025

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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).

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!

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Hauls Nordstrom

Everything I Bought From the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2025

July 13, 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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).

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.

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.

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.

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!

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Nordstrom Sales

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2025 Preview

July 8, 2025

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Hauls Sales Sephora

Sephora Sale Haul + First Impressions

April 14, 2025

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

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

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.

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

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 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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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Best Makeup To Shop During the Sephora Sale 2025

Best Primers

Best Foundation Formulas

Best Concealers

Best Setting Powders

Setting Spray Loves

Best Bronzers

Contour

Best Blushes

Eyeshadow Palettes

Go-To Brow Products

Mascara Favorites

Favorite Lipsticks

Best Liquid Lipstick

Favorite Tinted Lip Balms/Oils

Lip Liner

Best Lip Gloss Formulas

Favorite Makeup Tools

Merit Holiday Sets 2025

Archival Lip Essentials Gift Set

Mini Flush Blush Balm Trio

Ulta 21 Days of Beauty Sale

Ulta Beauty Big Summer Beauty Sale

Everything I Bought From the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2025

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2025 Preview

SHOES and ACCESSORIES

WOMEN’S CLOTHES

ACTIVE WEAR

HOME FINDS

BEAUTY EXCLUSIVES – MAKEUP

BEAUTY EXCLUSIVES – FRAGRANCE

BEAUTY EXCLUSIVES – SKINCARE + BODY

Sephora Sale Haul + First Impressions

Skincare Haul Picks

Sunscreen Buys

Hair Care + Fragrance Picks

Makeup Picks

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