Tag: Summer

HERMÈS Twilly d’Hermès

I haven’t shared a fragrance update in ages – still hooked on Le Labo Santal. But this summer, my friend gifted me Twilly d’Hermès as a thank you for being part of her wedding. I couldn’t imagine a more thoughtful gift as we share an admiration for the brand. And the scent could not be any more perfect for me.

I was a little surprised at this as I usually shy away from florals, but this blend matches tuberose with ginger and sandalwood, giving it a spicy and soft finish. It dries down sweet on my skin, which I love in the hot weather. It is worth a sniff if you are like me and need a summer update to woody, spicy winter favorites.

ARM&HAMMER Invisible Spray Powders for Foot and Body

ARM&HAMMER Invisible Spray Powders for Foot and Body on Belle Belle Beauty

We had a huge bike race here in Tulsa this weekend which is always a highlight at the start of the summer. Unfortunately for the bikers, it was H-O-T! And not the most comfortable as a spectator either. But it was the perfect excuse to try out my new New ARM&HAMMER Invisible Spray Powders for Foot and Body. Not only can sweat make us feel not so fresh, but it can also be stinky. But this duo kept me dry, comfortable and free of any white stains.

The Body Spray has a cool, unisex fragrance and keeps my underarms, bra-line and legs sweat free. I love the refreshing effect. I’ve been using the foot spray before work and applied it before I put on my sneakers this weekend. During the summer, my feet sweat in my work heels (and always in sneakers) and the Sweat Activated Fresh Guard® Technology is the only thing that keeps them dry and odor-free all day long.

Not the sexiest part of my beauty routine but certainly one of the most valuable.

My Summertime Makeup Routine

Summertime Makeup Routine on Belle Belle Beauty

My mornings are always rushed. When will I ever learn? But one thing I have mastered is a quick makeup routine. I’ve been so pleased with this set of products that I couldn’t resist sharing. And not to mention this whole thing takes me less than five minutes (4:26 minutes this AM thanks to my handy Apple Watch stopwatch).

  • After using my favorite Aveeno Baby Continuous Protection Lotion Sunscreen With Broad Spectrum SPF 50 (which is oddly moisturizing), I apply Laura Mercier Illuminating Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20 in Warm Radiance, a medium peach beige/ for medium complexions with pink undertones. It camouflages my hyper-pigmentation without a heavy or cake-y looking coverage. I just apply with my fingers, but a beauty blending sponge would also work well. 
  • Next, I brighten under my eyes with NARS Soft Matte Complete Concealer in Honey. Normally I don’t care for matte finish but this works nicely with the illuminating tinted moisturizer and it has great staying power. Sometimes I use a brush to blend this in, but usually I apply just with my fingers. I also do some spot coverage on blemishes if necessary if the tinted moisturizer doesn’t cut it on its own.
  • One of my favorite new products of the season is the Laura Mercier J’adore Le Soleil Sunrise Highlighter Crayon. I apply two stripes under my cheek bones and blend upward for just a wash of color – very sun-kissed and natural. Also, a little on the eyelids adds a touch of color.
  • Another favorite find of the summer is BECCA Shimmering Skin Perfector Poured Crème Highlighter in Moonstone. I tap a little bit of this under my eyes, down my nose and above my cupid’s bow. It also adds a nice touch under the brow. The cream consistency allows for such a natural and “grown up” highlighter application.
  • I’ve really embraced a bold brow lately and have been using two products to get the look. First, I use the brush end of Dior Diorshow Brow Styler Ultra-Fine Precision Brow Pencil in Universal Shade to tame any unruly, rogue hairs. Next, I use the pencil to fill in any sparse spots. Lastly, I set the shape and add color with LASHFOOD BROWFOOD Tinted Brow Enhancing Gelfix in Brunette. It has a peptide blend promises to deliver fuller, stronger brows. While I have only been using it for a couple weeks, I am hopeful about some of my sparse spots getting some growth. Will keep you posted.
  • I am still hooked on Kat Von D Tattoo Liner in Trooper. Nothing has quite the precision and staying power. I apply a quick and thin line right against my lashes. I did try the brown shade, Mad Max Brown. But it had no where close the pigment and ultimately went into the trash can.
  • Last but not least, I use Lancôme DÉFINICILS WATERPROOF High Definition Mascara in Black. I am a waterproof mascara devotee – I just get way too much fallout with regular mascara. I make every effort to get the brush right against the lashes at the root for the best effect.

 

Lastly, I got a peel today by the fabulous Gabriel Horn here in Tulsa. It promises no downtime which I love in the middle of the work week. I will pop back in and share results in a couple of days.

Shopbop Sale Alert

Shopbop Sale Alert on Belle Belle Beauty

In a closet quandary already with the arrival of spring weather? Look no further than Shopbop for summer staples, always a favorite of mine. I love shopping Free People, Splendid, Vince and Golden Goose on the site. And the next three days is the time to snag some splurges. Beginning today through Friday April 14th at 11:59PM Pacific Time you can get up 25% off with code EVENT17. Also note, the sale begins for the general public on tomorrow but as a reader here, you get the green light to start shopping today!

 

Shiseido Suncare and Melanoma Awareness Month

Shimmied Suncare and Melanoma Awareness Month on Belle Belle Beauty

We are almost to the end of Melanoma Awareness Month and I couldn’t let it slip by without a friendly reminder for sun safety. I have Melanoma in my family and strive to wear sunscreen all the time. I also go for yearly skin checks from my dermatologist. One of the brands I often turn to when pool weather comes around is Shiseido. Not only are they great for active coverage but everyday use and specialty protection. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends these Shiseido products.

Some of my favorites include:

Ultimate Sun Protection Lotion WetForce Broad Spectrum SPF 50+

This water-friendly SPF becomes even more effective on the applied area when exposed to water for 15 minutes. It also helps a ton with dryness – my beef with hot summer weather. It is high, effective protection without feeling heavy.

Sun Protection Eye Cream SPF34 

How unique! I had never heard of an eye SPF, but I am in. This is part of my new, everyday summer routine. The rich formula protects and minimizes the appearance of lines and wrinkles. It also fights dryness and adds a radiant finish – something I definitely wouldn’t mind around the pool or at the office.

Available at Sephora and Nordstrom.

 

Nordstrom Half-Yearly Sale

Nordstrom Half-Yearly Sale on Belle Belle Beauty

It is almost Memorial Day Weekend and there are loads of sales out there. But one of my favorites of the year is Nordstrom‘s Half-Yearly – such an easy way to shop online (and right now packed with deals). Thought I’d pop in tonight while I watch some basketball and share some of my picks. Happy Shopping!