As summer reaches its peak, I felt it was the right moment to share a collection of my current favorites. This summer has been notably hot and humid. My skin has certainly been affected, and while not much can withstand the intense heat, I’ve made several exciting beauty finds that I’ve really been enjoying this year.
Raffia Bags
I’m a fan of stylish raffia bags, and I purchased this Loewe Medium Basket three years ago (how time flies!). It’s held up incredibly well despite some mixed reviews about this design. Mine is a seasonal hue, but they continue to offer the classic beige with either a black or brown logo, as well as some newer styles this year. I’ve been eyeing a few from Miu Miu but haven’t yet decided on a color. If you have any favorites, feel free to share!
For a budget-friendly option, the Eric Javits Squishee Tote remains a longstanding favorite of mine. These bags are beautifully constructed and maintain their shape well if you prefer a structured look. I own it in two shades (black mix and neutral mix), and they have lasted me a considerable time.
Summer Hats
On the note of Eric Javits, his hats are essentials for me. I always take them along to the pool or beach because they provide the best sun protection of all the hats I’ve tried. The Hamptons style is my top choice, although I also adore the Bucket Hats. They often have great sales when you shop directly on their website.
Favorite Sunglasses
I have a tendency to collect sunglasses, but since discovering these Chanel Rectangle pairs, I haven’t splurged much on other styles. I have them in tortoise and black—they truly complement almost everything, and I love the shape. These are also the ones that receive the most compliments!
Portable Fan
The Dyson HushJet Portable Mini Fan was an impulse buy this year, and I absolutely love it. It fits perfectly into my tote bag and was a lifesaver during Miami Swim Week.
Sunscreens
I’m in the process of putting together an updated sunscreen roundup, but I already have some favorites I wanted to mention. It’s not easy to find one compatible with makeup, stays in place, doesn’t run into the eyes, and still offers high SPF. Many of you have asked for mineral options, but I still prefer chemical formulas.
For my face, I’ve been particularly fond of the La Roche Posay Anthelios UVAir Serum Sunscreen SPF50, Tatcha The Milky Sunscreen SPF 50+, Prequel Solar Shade SPF 46, Chanel UV Essentiel, and the new Christian Dior Le Fluide Invisible SPF 50. These work well with my foundations that have high SPF ratings and have performed excellently for me.
When it comes to body sunscreens, Shiseido is, without a doubt, the best long-lasting formula that is sweat and water-resistant. The Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector has been my favorite for years. I also tried the Sun Protector Mineral version, which lasts remarkably well and adheres nicely to the skin. The only drawback is it’s really tough to remove at the end of the day.
I also love the Kopari Sunglaze Sheer Body Mist. For me, this is superior to most sunscreen sprays because it’s not an aerosol. You can visibly see where it’s applied, and it holds up well even in water. The shimmer is stunning without being overly sparkly, and it dries nicely without feeling greasy.
The Best Body Oil
With the heat, my skin has been feeling exceptionally dry recently. I rediscovered the L’Occitane Almond Body Oil and recalled why I adored it so much. The new packaging is pretty, but the formula remains the same as the original. The Almond Shower Oil is another favorite that both Andrew and I enjoy. It feels incredibly luxurious! The Shower Oil will be featured in this Almond Gift Set available starting next week during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale.
Makeup Favorites
I have discovered numerous new makeup favorites this year. The standout foundation launch for me has to be the YSL Skin Affair Soft Glow Cushion Foundation in 7.5N (check it out in action here). It’s so effortless to apply, requiring minimal blending, and the coverage is just right. It lasts all day, and I love how it looks like my skin—only better.
To impart a healthy radiance to my complexion, I’ve truly enjoyed the Sarah Creal Today’s Highlights Cream highlighters. They provide a lovely dewy glow without being sticky like many balm sticks. I appreciate how naturally they appear on the skin.
Charlotte Tilbury’s Unreal Skin Sheer Glow Tint remains a beloved product. I often layer or mix it with other foundations. One of you suggested using it instead of the Hollywood Flawless Filter for a more natural glow, and you were spot on! I wear it in Shade 7.5.
Armani Fluid Sheers are a classic for good reason. I alternate between Shades 10 or 11 as they closely match my skin tone for that lit-from-within soft glow.
The Rhode Highlight Milks also deserve a mention. You can find my full review here. They provide a lovely glow, and I appreciate the thinner fluid texture.
For cream bronzers, there’s a tie among Rhode Pocket Bronze, Westman Atelier Soleil Parfait Duos, and Dior Forever Skin Bronze Stick. I’ve long favored powder bronzers, but this year’s releases have shifted my perspective entirely.
- Rhode is the creamiest and the easiest to blend (review here, demo here)
- Westman Atelier duos have a fantastic mix of neutral and cool tones (review here, on the skin here)
- Dior offers the best satin formula that endures the longest on me (review + swatches here)
The Best Summer Red
I’ve been obsessed with Essie Geranium for nails. Typically, my go-to pedicure shade has been Hermes Orange Poppy, but I switched it up this year. Last Christmas, Andrew arranged a staycation for us at The Standard Spa in Miami Beach. We indulged in spa treatments and enjoyed mani/pedis together, having an amazing time. I brought my own colors for my pedicure but last minute asked Andrew to pick a new shade. He chose Geranium, and I ordered a bottle as soon as we returned home. It has been on my toes almost continuously this entire year. It’s genuinely the ideal bold summer red. (The sandals are by Fendi, which I adore; they fit true to size, but I suggest adding these anti-slip grip pads.)
Lip Loves
I had previously mentioned the Chanel Rouge Coco Baume Shine in Sparkling Pink a few weeks ago, but it sold out almost immediately. While I don’t have a great alternative suggestion, I think the Dior Addict Lip Glow Butter in Pink offers a similar effect (review here). And if shimmer isn’t your style, the newer YSL Candy Glaze in Bubblegum Pink (swatched here) is definitely one of my favorites.
I still favor neutral lip shades, although I’ve been experimenting with different tones lately. Right now, the best neutrals for me are the Chanel Rouge Coco Baume in Honey Bliss (swatched here, it will be included in this adorable set next week) and the Chanel Rouge Coco Hydra Gloss in 443 Impertinente (reviewed here).
Hair Care Obsessions
I also have two hair care products I can’t stop using. The Oribe Detangling Spray remains the best detangler I’ve found and has been a lifesaver since my hair tangles easily at the ends these days. I’ve also been frequently using the Oribe Supershine Smoothing Wax Stick. It’s comparable to the R+Co Dart Stick, but I’ve found myself reaching for the Oribe more often as it adds a bit more shine.
Neither stick appears or feels greasy, but if you experience any level of sweat, you will need to wash your hair in the evening. I’m on the lookout for a hair spray that works for my hair; however, for my stubborn flyaways, the wax pomade sticks are my only effective solution.
Summer Perfumes
Lastly, I’ve been completely captivated by two new perfumes this year. I was introduced to Memo Paris thanks to some influencers I met, and their latest launch, Menorca, is by far the best citrusy bergamot scent I’ve encountered this year. It has notes of bergamot, salty vibes, neroli, ginger, lemon, and sandalwood.
I will always be a fan of Creed, and Wild Vetiver may just be my favorite fragrance of the year. It’s highly concentrated and uniquely wonderful. It features a lovely mix of vetiver, bergamot, timur berry, rose, geranium, blackcurrant, cedarwood, and amberwood. This is the scent that garners the most questions and compliments. If you’re familiar with Creed fragrances, Wild Vetiver diverges significantly from Original Vetiver, which has a more fresh and clean profile (and strikes me as more masculine). Wild Vetiver is the robust feminine twist. I also adore the sea green Refillable Atomizer they released alongside this fragrance (though it can house any scent).
A quick mention of two that aren’t new but still encapsulate summer beautifully: I love Kilian’s Sunkissed Goddess and Creed Virgin Island Water for those classic summer scents.
I realize this is an extensive list, but I wanted to compile everything in one post! If you have any summer favorites, please share them in the comments!
**Summer Essentials I’ve Been Enjoying**
As the sun shines brightly and the days stretch longer, summer introduces a distinctive array of essentials that elevate the season’s delight. Whether you’re at the beach, hosting a backyard barbecue, or simply basking in the sun, having the right summer essentials can significantly enhance your experience. Here are some of the summer essentials I’ve been enjoying this season:
1. **Sunscreen**: Protecting your skin from harmful UV rays is vital during summer. A broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 is indispensable. I’ve been relying on a lightweight, water-resistant formula that doesn’t leave any greasy residue, making it ideal for daily use.
2. **Reusable Water Bottle**: Staying hydrated is crucial amidst the summer heat. A high-quality, insulated reusable water bottle keeps drinks cold for hours. It’s environmentally friendly and guarantees that I always have refreshing water accessible, whether at the beach or on a hike.
3. **Wide-Brimmed Hat**: A fashionable wide-brimmed hat not only enhances any outfit but also provides vital shade for the face and neck. It has become essential for outdoor activities, combining both style and sun protection.
4. **Sunglasses**: Shielding your eyes from the sun’s glare is essential, and a quality pair of sunglasses with UV protection is crucial. I’ve been enjoying a pair with polarized lenses that diminish glare and boost visibility, perfect for driving or lounging by the pool.
5. **Lightweight Clothing**: Breathable fabrics such as cotton and linen are perfect for staying cool on hot summer days. Loose-fitting dresses, shorts, and tops in light hues have been my preferred attire, providing both comfort and style.
6. **Portable Speaker**: Music is the essence of summer, and a portable Bluetooth speaker allows me to enjoy my favorite tunes wherever I may go. Whether at the beach or picnicking in the park, having a portable speaker enhances the fun and atmosphere.
7. **Beach Towel**: A large, absorbent beach towel is vital for any beach trip. I’ve been using one that’s quick-drying and sand-resistant, making it convenient to pack and carry without the hassle.
8. **Insect Repellent**: Summer evenings are perfect for outdoor gatherings, but they often attract bothersome insects. A dependable insect repellent deters mosquitoes and other bugs, allowing me to relish the outdoors without annoyance.
9. **Cooler Bag**: For picnics and beach outings, a cooler bag keeps snacks and beverages chilled. I’ve found one that offers substantial space and a robust design, making transport easy and keeping my favorite summer goodies fresh.
10. **Outdoor Blanket**: An outdoor blanket is ideal for picnics, concerts, or lounging in the park. I’ve been using one that’s waterproof and easy to fold, delivering a comfortable and clean space wherever I decide to relax.
These summer essentials have enriched my enjoyment of the season, enabling me to fully take advantage of the warm weather and outdoor activities. With the right gear, summer transforms into a period of relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable memories.
