Our Favorite Beauty and Style Products for Summer

Now that we’re on the cusp of our favorite season—summer, that is—it’s time to revamp our routines. When warmer weather arrives, we like to turn to products that help sweat-proof our makeup, refresh our skin, and keep our hair feeling (and looking) its best. And over the last month, Team Byrdie has played around with tons of products and tools to find our new summer favorites. We’ve also experimented with our wardrobe—introducing pieces that will keep us cool and comfortable amid the sweltering temperatures. Ahead, we’re sharing our beauty and fashion editors’ picks that will carry us through this month and beyond. 

Hallie Gould, editor in chief

Dior Miss Dior Perfume

“The dream of summer has me craving a fresher scent, and Dior’s newest Miss Dior launch is just the thing. I don’t usually go for sweet, but this parfum is more light and youthful than it is candy-coated. It’s perfectly balanced with jasmine, strawberry, and amber wood for a juicy, grounded fragrance that makes me feel *alive.* I can just picture the sun warming my body and Dior’s Miss Dior Parfum warming my mind all season long.”

Refy Lash Sculpt Lengthen and Lift Mascara

Refy
Lash Sculpt Lengthen and Lift Mascara
$26.00

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“I don’t fall in love with new mascaras often—I’m a creature of habit—but Refy’s newest launch nestled its way into the top spot in my makeup bag the second I tried it. The brush is incredible; it delicately combs through each lash hair to seperate, lengthen, and curl in just a few swipes. The formula doesn’t clump, flake, or smudge and, in fact, stays put all day and into the night. It’s a must-try.”

Vacation Orange Gelée

Vacation
Orange Gelée
$23.00

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“I’m a sucker for anything Vacation launches—the vibes, the scent, the nostalgia, it all works together to feel like a perfect iteration on traditional suncare (I should also mention, I haven’t burned since I started using their products). That said, this is likely my favorite launch of the bunch. Formulated to feel and look like the original, Vacation’s Orange Gelée offers a glossy, beautiful shine with an SPF of 30.”

Merit Flush Balm Cream Blush

Merit
Flush Balm Cream Blush
$30.00

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“Merit Flush Balm is just about the easiest, most efficient multi-use product on the market. A quick swipe on your eyelids, cheeks, and lips, and, in seconds, you’re left with a gorgeous, glowy, monochromatic makeup look. The newest shade, Rouge, is a red I never expected to want to apply to my face (I’m usually trying to neutralize redness), but it’s perfect. I wore it on vacation, and it’s absolutely my new summer go-to. Flushed, dewy, healthy, happy-looking skin in seconds.”

Eden Stuart, editor

Nars Powder Blush

Nars
Powder Blush
$34.00

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“I’m trying to get out of my blush comfort zone more often; instead of sticking to my bright fuchsias, bold reds, and rich purples, I’m trying to explore lighter tones. To do so, I wanted to start with the gold standard. Nars’ Powder Blushes—which just got a formula makeover to up the wear time and color payoff—are, of course, just that. Dominant is a gorgeous bubblegum pink with a smooth finish and buildable coverage. I’m excited to cosplay ‘Soft Girl’ in it all summer.”

Third Love Organic Cloud Cotton Perfect Coverage Bra

Third Love
Organic Cloud Cotton Perfect Coverage Bra
$72.00

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“Even though my bust isn’t super full, I still like to feel held in by a bra. I wear sports bras and bralettes, but I prefer something with wires. I’m sure many of you reading this just thought, ‘Couldn’t be me.’ With ThirdLove’s Cloud Cotton Perfect Coverage bra, though, I honestly think it could be. This might be the most comfortable, wired bra I’ve ever put on my body, and it’s incredibly lightweight. Even though I tend to wear fewer ‘regular’ bras in the summer due to what I would scientifically describe as the ‘stick’ factor, this one is so breezy I think it’ll be my go-to foundational piece for the next several months.”

Josie Maran Topless Tangerine Whipped Body Butter

Josie Maran
Topless Tangerine Whipped Body Butter
$36.00

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“People throw around the term ‘smells like summer’ all the time, but Josie Maran’s Topless Tangerine is actually the smell of summer, and I am fully willing to throw hands to defend this stance. All of the brand’s new Whipped Argan Body Butters and Scrubs smell incredible (Bohemian Fig makes me want to roll around on a velvet lounger, and Vanilla Vibez is basically Beyonce’s ‘Bodyguard’ in a jar), and the hydration factor for the body butter is next level. Catch me with the smoothest, glowiest gams all spring and summer, thanks to these.”

Jasmine Phillips, social media editor

Naturalizer x Deepica Mutyala Illuminate Heel Sandal

Naturalizer x Deepica Mutyala
Illuminate Heel Sandal
$125.00

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“Naturalizer partnered with Deepica Mutyala, founder and CEO of Live Tinted, for a shoe collaboration. The collection includes a slide and heel sandal in three shades so anyone can find their perfect nude shoe. Not only is this heel comfortable and the perfect addition to my summer show rotation, but this collection also benefits Unicorn Island Fund to change how girls and women are seen, heard, and valued.”

My Black Is Beautiful Moisturizing Refreshing Spray

My Black Is Beautiful
Moisturizing Refreshing Spray
$12.00

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“I switch between wash-and-gos and braid-outs regularly, but one thing that stays the same is my need for hydrating hair products. I like My Black is Beautiful’s Moisturizing Refreshing Spray because it hydrates my hair between wash days and contains softening ingredients like honey and coconut oil. I never thought I could benefit from refreshing sprays until recently, but now they are a must-have in my curly hair routine.”

InnBeauty Project Mineral Sun Glow

InnBeauty Project
Mineral Sun Glow
$35.00

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“While I wear sunscreen daily, I usually try to avoid mineral SPF. As someone with deep skin, mineral sunscreens almost always leave me with a white cast that I cannot ignore. I can’t say I wasn’t hesitant to try Inn Beauty’s Mineral Sun Glow, but this product definitely shocked me in a good way. This product feels super lightweight on the skin, blends easily, and leaves me with zero white cast. It leaves my skin matte, which is great because I’m an oily girl, and I can see myself reaching for this SPF all summer long.”

Olivia Hancock, editor

Nexxus Curl Define Gel Cream

Nexxus
Curl Define Gel Cream
$19.00

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“When it comes to gels for curly hair, I am very particular. I need one that is incredibly lightweight, hydrating, and delivers a hold that lasts for days. Nexxus’ Curl Define Gel Cream checks off all my boxes, and I’m blown away by how much curls love the formula. It provides 72 hours of humidity protection and 48 hours of frizz control, making it the perfect styling product for the summer. I’m left with enhanced, smooth curls after each use.”

Brown Girl Jane Dusk Eau de Parfum

Brown Girl Jane
Dusk Eau de Parfum
$102.00

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“Brown Girl Jane’s Dusk Eau de Parfum never leaves my purse. It’s become my newest go-to scent. The fragrance has a milky, woody profile—containing notes like sandalwood, toasted almond, and vanilla orchids. The warm scent is super comforting, and I plan to wear it all summer.”

WYN Beauty Featuring You Hydrating Skin Enhancing Tint SPF 30

WYN Beauty
Featuring You Hydrating Skin Enhancing Tint SPF 30
$29.00

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“I’ve been testing Serena Williams’ makeup brand, WYN Beauty, for a few months now and I’m particularly obsessed with the skin tint. The gel-cream formula feels so hydrating and lightweight on my skin. Plus, it gives my complexion such a natural, radiant finish. If that wasn’t enough, WYN’s skin tint contains SPF 30 to shield your skin from the sun, blue light, and pollution. It’s the perfect complexion product for the summer months.”

Herbal Essences Apricot Oil Curl Defining Shampoo

Herbal Essences
Apricot Oil Curl Defining Shampoo
$11.00

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“When you have curly hair, the last thing you want is for your shampoo to strip your hair of its much-needed moisture. Using Herbal Essence’s Apricot Oil Curl Defining Shampoo has helped me avoid this dilemma. It contains apricot oil, pure aloe vera, and camellia oil. The lightweight formula thoroughly removes all the buildup while still imparting moisture. My curls always feel so smooth and look incredibly shiny after cleaning with this shampoo.”

Diane Von Furstenberg for Target Sea Twig Blue Sweaterknit Midi Wrap Dress

Diane Von Furstenberg for Target
Sea Twig Blue Sweaterknit Midi Wrap Dress
$45.00

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“When I saw this dress on the rack, I knew instantly it would become a key part of my early summer wardrobe. The chic blue and white pattern screams summer. I also love that wrap dress is one of those pieces you can dress up or down. I can wear it to the office or a fun dinner with friends.”

Lauren Pardee, senior commerce editor

Selfmade True Grit Resilience Scrub

SelfMade
True Grit Resilience Scrub
$34.00

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“Selfmade’s True Grit Resilience Scrub has quickly become the star of my ‘everything’ shower routine. This scalp and body exfoliator steams the space with a grounding palo-santo-inspired aroma reminiscent of any luxury spa. Then it works double-duty on two areas that need a lot of love: my scalp and skin. It’s done wonders to eliminate dry flakes that can easily show up in my dark hair, and it also helps smooth my arms and legs, which can be prone to keratosis pilaris (aka dry, rough patches and tiny bumps).”

HigherDose Red Light Face Mask

HigherDose
Red Light Face Mask
$349.00

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“Some days, my skincare routine is a detailed, multi-step process; other days, I’m lucky if I can muster up the energy to cleanse and moisturize. So when I heard that red light therapy requires little to no effort while also reducing fine lines, wrinkles, and redness, boosting collagen and elastin, and encouraging a glowy complexion, I had to try it out. Now, the Higher Dose Red Light Mask is a seamless part of any skincare ritual. Depending on how much time I have, I opt for a 10- or 20-minute session and kick back on the couch watching TV. Even better: The mask is cordless, lightweight, bends to fit your face comfortably, and is made with medical-grade silicone for easy cleaning.”

Steve Madden Graya Black Patent

Steve Madden
Graya Black Patent
$120.00

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“To be more budget-conscious, I’ve made a rule to wait at least a month before deciding if I need whatever new clothing item or accessory has caught my eye. After multiple months of spotting these slingbacks around the internet, I knew they were worth the buy—and now, they’re my go-to spring shoe. They match everything from a sweet dress to some baggy jeans and transition seamlessly from day to night. I love how they make a statement while not being too over-the-top. And, above all, they’re extremely comfortable.”

Caitlyn Martyn, commerce writer

Supergoop! Protec(Tint) Daily Skin Tint SPF 50

Supergoop!
Protec(Tint) Daily Skin Tint SPF 50
$44.00

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“Despite my very fair skin, I’ve always avoided sunscreen out of fear that it would break me out…until I found a formula that I love: Supergoop’s Mattescreen. When the brand came out with a new skin tint-slash-SPF product, I had to try it, and, shockingly, it dethroned the formula I’d been using for years. Protec(Tint) Daily Skin Tint SPF 50 provides a subtle wash of color that evens out the look of redness and gives my skin a glass-like finish while protecting it with SPF 50. Get it; you can thank me later.”

The Skinny Confidential Mouth Tape

The Skinny Confidential
The Mouth Tape
$35.00

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“I’ve heard about the benefits of mouth taping (aka going to sleep with your mouth taped shut) for a while now and always thought it was ridiculous. But then I tested The Skinny Confidential’s Mouth Tape, and I got the hype. I, a habitual mouth breather when I sleep, could breathe easier and woke up without cotton mouth for the first time in what feels like forever. Going into summer, I’ll lean on this tape to breathe easier when my AC is on full blast.”

Nècessaire Rosemary Shampoo

Nècessaire
Rosemary Shampoo
$28.00

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“One thing about me is that I style my hair more often in the summer. And due to humidity, any signs of breakage are very, very obvious. I’ve been turning to this shampoo (and the conditioner) duo for their clarifying benefits and strengthening elements (shoutout rosemary oil, proteins, peptides, and ceramides) to support healthier hair and breakage protection. Oh, and it also smells like a spa, so my shower feels like an immersive experience each time I use it.”

Star Donaldson, associate social media director

Sol de Janeiro Rio Radiance SPF 50 Body Spray Sunscreen

Sol de Janeiro
Rio Radiance SPF 50 Body Spray Sunscreen
$36.00

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“Every morning, I take long walks as part of my self-care routine. Now that the sun is out full-time, I need a good SPF that goes on quickly before I head out. I’ve always loved Sol De Janeiro’s scents, and when I found out they were coming out with suncare, I was so excited. Sol De Janeiro’s Rio Radiance SPF Body Spray belongs to their Cheriosa 87 family, so it dries down with notes of vanilla and amber. In the past, I forgot to apply sunscreen to my body before going out, but now I look forward to it. Not only does this body spray help protect my skin with SPF 50, it also gives me the perfect morning pick-me-up.”

Stay Golden Initial Hoop Earrings

Stay Golden
Initial Hoop Earrings
$38.00

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“Warm weather means I’m putting my hair up most of the time, and I can fully show off my earring stack. Lately, my ear-scaping vibe leans more toward maximalism, and I’ve been having fun playing around with charms and hoops. My favorite pair of earrings are my Initial Hoop Earrings from Stay Golden. I love how the ‘S’ charm stands out amongst my other hoops, and after many days of wear, the earrings show no signs of tarnishing.”

MoveActive Crew Non-Slip Grip Socks

MoveActive
Crew Non Slip Grip Socks
$16.00

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“This summer, I’m upping my Pilates subscription, and I’ve found that I need workout gear that lasts with more classes. I started Pilates nine months ago and have worn at least five pairs of socks. The socks either lose their grip or start falling apart altogether. I’ve been obsessed with these Crew Non-Slip Grip socks from MoveActive. They are thick and comfy, with a grip that I can feel when I’m on the reformer. They also pair well with all of my Pilates outfits. Pilates socks are often too loud or patterned for my taste, but this pair is discreet, and I’ve even worn them instead of regular socks a few times.”

Alyssa Kaplan, commerce writer

Guerlain Kiss Kiss Bee Glow Lip Oil

Guerlain
Kiss Kiss Bee Glow Lip Oil
$40.00

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“It’s the year of the lip oil, and this one from Guerlain is my new favorite. Not only is the packaging so luxe (and functional thanks to the large doe-foot applicator), but the formula looks and feels incredible on the lips. It’s not thick and goopy, but it’s also not too thin and runny—it has the perfect plush texture that smooths the appearance of lip lines and gives my lips a full, healthy look.”

Fenty Beauty Demi’Glow Light-Diffusing Highlighter

Fenty Beauty
Demi’Glow Light-Diffusing Highlighter
$40.00

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“I haven’t been inspired by highlighters recently, but when this one from Fenty Beauty landed at my door, that changed. The formula is a soft, creamy powder that’s easy to apply and gives the skin an ethereal glow. It’s available in nine shades to suit a wide range of skin tones, and I think it’s the perfect product to create a beaming summer glow.”

Chanel Natural Finish Loose Powder

Chanel
Natural Finish Loose Powder
$56.00

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“I have oily skin and want to maintain my glow without looking greasy. This loose powder from Chanel helps me set grease-prone areas of my face without leading to a dry or chalky finish. I also love using this powder to set the concealer under my eyes—it makes the area look smooth and helps minimize creasing.”

Nike Motiva Women’s Walking Shoes

Nike
Motiva Women’s Walking Shoes
$110.00

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“I’m making it my mission this summer to take more walks. And to make that a reality, I knew I’d need some new sneakers. I love a good white sneaker because I can easily wear it with anything, and this pair from Nike (which is designed specifically for walking) is my new favorite. It has a thick cushioned bottom that makes it feel a bit like you’re bouncing when wearing these, but I love that it helps prevent my feet from getting too sore from the concrete NYC streets. If you’re in the market for a new walking shoe, I recommend trying the Motivas.”

Dagne Dover Ace Fanny Pack in Oyster Neoprene

Dagne Dover
Ace Fanny Pack
$95.00

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“Fanny packs are great for hands-free walks, errands, and trips to the grocery store, and I’ve been loving this one from Dagne Dover. It’s the perfect size to fit your phone, card case, keys, and lip balm, and I love that the beige color is easy to pair with many different outfits.”

Ali Webb, associate editor

Coach Willow Tote

Coach
Willow Tote
$225.00

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“Summer adventures require a bag that can hold all your essentials yet is effortless to tote around, and Coach’s Willow Tote is ideal for this. It’s a pebble leather bucket bag with three compartments to keep everything organized; plus, it has an adjustable, removable crossbody strap, so you can carry it a few different ways depending on your preference and whatever the day has in store. I have it in black (which features a stunning red lining), and I can’t wait to get lots of use out of this pretty yet practical design for years to come.”

Ortega Blu Nectar Lip Oil

Ortega
Blu Nectar Lip Oil
$21.00

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“As saturated as the lip product market is, finding one that balances comfortable wear and lasting hydration can be shockingly hard. I’ve found my new hero in this agave-infused jelly formula from celebrity MUA Etienne Ortega’s new brand. It sinks in quickly and actually has been making my lips feel more nourished with consistent use, as opposed to simply masking my chronic dryness until it wears off. As a bonus, the shimmering blue tint (from the agave nectar) is mesmerizing in the bottle yet looks pretty much clear on my lips. This lip oil has become an instant go-to in my routine, both on its own and as a hydrating base layer before applying other products.”

Marcella Solana Sandals

Marcella
Solana Sandals
$208.00

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“Kitten heels are still going strong after returning to trending status last year, so it’s only natural if you’re on the hunt for a sandal version of this chic yet comfortable style for summer. This pair from Marcella features twisted straps, a square toe, and a slightly angular heel design, creating a look that’s interesting yet timeless and easy to pair with almost any look. I went with classic black, but if you’re looking for a statement shade, it also comes in key lime, spring green, and orange.”

By Rosie Jane Missy Eau de Parfum

By Rosie Jane
Missy Eau de Parfum
$75.00

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“While I’m usually one to gravitate towards woody, spicy fragrances, I tend to embrace more tropical notes around the start of summer, especially when traveling or feeling insatiable wanderlust. Missy, the new launch from By Rosie Jane, features notes of green mandarin, coconut, pineapple, and frangipani, which combine to create a scent that reminds me of beach vacations. I’m definitely planning to pack this in my suitcase this summer.”

Shannon Stubbs, commerce updates writer

D.S. & Durga Debaser

D.S. & Durga
Debaser
$210.00

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“I love to test all kinds of fragrances and own several—so when I say this is my signature fragrance, I don’t take those words lightly. With notes of fig, coconut milk, and pear, one might think it would be too sweet or fruity—but I truly can’t describe how crisp and refreshing this scent is. Combined with moss and green leaf notes, this is my dream warm-weather perfume. It’s light enough to douse yourself in without being overwhelming, but it’s lasting enough to where I can still smell it on my wrists at the end of the day. I love that it’s the perfect balance of green and floral—subtle enough that it could just be your natural scent, not a perfume.”

Ami Colé Desert Date Multistick

Ami Colé
Desert Date Multistick
$22.00

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“Don’t be afraid of red blush. I thought the shade would look too bright on me, but it’s extremely flattering and truly livens up my complexion. This one from Ami Colé is my favorite— it’s easy to apply with a brush or your fingers, blends beautifully, and the color stays all day.”

Tony Moly Get It Tint Glaze Balm

Tony Moly
Get It Tint Glaze Balm
$24.00

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“I’ll always have space in my makeup bag for a gloss-balm hybrid (no matter how many I already own), and this one from TonyMoly is no exception. The twist-up applicator makes it easy to bring it on the go and apply it without a mirror, and it has the perfect amount of shine without being goopy or sticky. It’s both hydrating and cooling and gives my lips a juicy finish. I love the shade Berry Plum, a pinkish purple that can easily go from day to night.”

Abby Dupes, associate editor

New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13 in Pink Granite

New Balance
Fresh Foam X 1080v13
$164.00

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“Aside from cookouts and beach trips, running is one of my favorite outdoor summertime activities. I’m out and about once the trails are cleared of any leftover mud from spring and the seasonal chill is out of the air. To celebrate the start of the peak training season, I replace my old beat-up kicks with the latest and greatest model. This year, I purchased New Balance’s Fresh Foam sneakers and couldn’t be happier with my choice. The cushioning, which immediately molded to support high arches, has been unlike any other shoe I’ve experienced. When I run with these bad boys on, I feel like I’ve got springs strapped to my feet, supercharging my running speed. With super vibrant colorways that look fab with athleisure and mini sundresses, these sneakers are worthy of a medal, IMO.”

Tatcha The Kissu Lip Tint SPF 25

Tatcha
The Kissu Lip Tint SPF 25
$34.00

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“Here’s a PSA: Your lips need SPF too. I don’t know why this factoid doesn’t get the attention it deserves, but it doesn’t. Tatcha’s latest—The Kissu Lip Tint SPF 25—is a non-sticky, non-drying formula that provides UVA and UVB sun protection while keeping lips hydrated with botanical lanolin and silk protein. It comes in three stunning colors, with my fave for summer being the punch-pink ‘Cammelia.’ I’m hoping (and praying!) that more shades will be added as the warmer months roll in.”

Samantha Brash, director of content strategy

Spanx Bra-llelujah! Unlined Bralette

Spanx
Bra-llelujah! Unlined Bralette
$48.00

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“I’m usually a free-the-nipple kind of girl (when I can get away with it), so come warmer months, wearing a bra is completely out of the question. However, I am a professional in the workplace and wouldn’t dare wear my favorite white tee to the office sans undergarments. The solution? Spanx’s Bra-llelujah! Unlined Bralette. It’s comfortable, breathable, and smoothing—an absolute go-to for me.”

Holly Rhue, editorial director

Staud x Wrangler The Biggest Denim Jacket

Staud x Wrangler
The Biggest Denim Jacket
$295.00

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“My answer to the hot subway, cold office debacle is an oversized jean jacket. This Staud x Wrangler collab is perfectly oversized—just throw it over any graphic tee, and it elevates your look to Hailey Bieber status. I love that the denim is soft enough to fold the jacket into my bag while commuting but still structured enough to bring some dimension to my office outfits.”

Drunk Elephant D-Bronzi Drops

Drunk Elephant
D-Bronzi Drops
$38.00

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“This is the perfect shade of bronze for my skin tone and breathes some warmth into my skin without pulling muddy or streaky. I mix it with my sunscreen (only after applying a *full* base layer of SPF first), and it never fails to make my skin look dewy, bright, and full of life.”

Neurae Joie Emotion Booster

Neurae
Joie Emotion Booster
$65.00

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“I’m not big on fragrance, but I’m in love with the concept behind Neuraé—a new brand under the Sisley Paris umbrella—and its ‘Emotion Boosters.’ Neuraé is all about the brain-skin connection, and its Emotion Boosters are little roll-ons formulated to trigger certain emotional responses when you smell them. My favorite is Joie (joy in French), a subtle, zingy scent that always sends me to my happy place.”

Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal + Tea Tree Spray

Briogeo
Scalp Revival Charcoal + Tea Tree Spray
$26.00

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“Everyone sweats a little extra somewhere on their body, and I, for one, am a head sweater. I always have been, and it’s particularly rough during summertime workouts. I always have Briogeo’s Scalp Revival Charcoal + Tea Tree Spray when I need extra insurance after a sweaty cardio session. It’s a pre-wash treatment with chemical exfoliants like salicylic acid and clarifying ingredients like charcoal and tea tree oil. The result is super fresh roots and a delightfully minty, tingly sensation that feels so refreshing in the heat of summer.”