Prada showed straight-leg jeans in weathered vintage washes, while Khaite’s were deep, dark blue and tucked into luxe leather thigh-high boots. Chloé doubled down on the boho fashion revival it initiated last fall with fit-and-flare denim; around the show’s midway point, creative director Chemena Kamali sent out split-hem boot-cut jeans styled with lacy camisoles and floor-length maxi coats, an instant contender for the It girl uniform of the season.
Keep scrolling to take a closer look at the denim trending this fall, ranging from slim and skinny to super-sized, baggy jeans. Plus, tips and insight into how to style each silhouette this autumn.
Straight and Slim
If you've been waiting with bated breath for the downturn of the baggy denim boom, the straight-leg jeans seen across the Fall 2025 runways, from Prada in Paris to Sportmax in Milan, is cause for celebration. At both Isabel Marant and Khaite, slimmer-fitting denim was tucked into tall black boots (coincidentally, also a top fall 2025 shoe trend), a worthwhile outfit option with a very classic autumn feel. Otherwise, consider how Prada, Sportmax, and Diesel paired their boyfriend jeans with quirky tunics and strapless tops.
Split Ends
Split hems gave denim a more interesting, unexpected, and peek-a-boo edge this season. Tory Burch and Chloé are the top pioneers of the trend, but each showed different options on styling the slitted silhouetted; Tory Burch went in a more preppy direction with button-down shirts and sweater vests, while Chloé's lace tanks and faux fur coats combos were capital-B Boho.
Low-Slung and Slouchy
Those who are partial to oversized, loose denim aren't without options this season. Bally, Coach, and Stella McCartney's bold, baggy jeans look as comfortable as your favorite pair of sized-up sweatpants, whereas Versace's are less of a large and in charge statement. Consider taking a cue from Gen Z with their "big pant, little shirt" styling ethos when trying the trend—Bally's baby tee and Sandy Liang's cropped cardigan are good references.
Cuffing Season
Ranging from chunked-up hemlines to slight fold-overs, cuffed jeans were peppered across runways and went in almost every denim direction imaginable. Whether you buy a pre-cuffed pair or do the work yourself, a trusty blazer or button-down will elevate the bottoms to be appropriate for casual days at the office or downtown lunches.
Indigo Girls
Rich blue, almost violet washes were one of the most popular sights seen throughout the Fall 2025 season—making indigo a front-running fall color trend in the process—rendered in barrel-leg styles at Nili Lotan and Awake Mode, as well as wearably baggy at Louis Vuitton and Willy Chavarria. Pair indigo jeans with a seasonally fitting plaid shirt, and it'll become your reliably on-trend fall formula.
Decals of Any Design
Crystals, embroidery, and hand-painted prints—you name a type or embellishment or decal, and it graced the Fall 2025 runways. If you pick a pair like Undercover's thread-stitched style or Etro's floral denim, opt for more elevated outfit complements so the look doesn't give an arts and crafts feel, like starched shirting and your best loafers.
One housekeeping note before we get into things: I’m off on vacation! Coming up, look out for sends from Halie, our senior fashion news editor, and Sara, our style director—two women who consistently influence my style and have incredible taste. You’re in good hands. Now, on to the show!
Cowboy Boots:
If you’ve put your cowboy boots on ice all summer, now’s the perfect time to break them out and build a look around them. Avoid overheating by pairing your boots with lighter materials like poplin, linen, or silk.
Cocoa Brown:
I love wearing cocoa brown all year round, but it feels especially right in the fall. Add a shot of this color to your outfit if you’re over bright, bold colors that scream summer.
White on White:
This should go without saying, but: heading into Labor Day doesn’t mean you have to stash your white clothing, especially your white jeans and T-shirts. We’re past that antiquated rule, right? Still, if you need a little push, lean on footwear (try leather flip flops or loafers) and flouncy details to make it work.
Long Jorts:
While I am still (personally, for me) anti-capri pants, I will forever be Team Long Jorts. I find them to be more versatile—you can wear them with everything from knee-high boots to flat sandals—and, TBH, easier to style. Ideal for between-season weather!
Reading List
First time reading Self Checkout? Catch up on the past few weeks.
Fall is typically the time of year when all of the classic brunettes come out to play, but this year is heavy on the transitional hues like "bronde" that create a soft difference. Many of fall's biggest color trends are perfect for anyone who wants to dip their toes into a new shade without going too extreme. Think of strawberry blonde and warm beige brunette as examples.
This is even true of the various shades of red. Red wine supernova, a more polarizing take on red hair, reigned supreme earlier in the year, but natural hues like auburn are back with a vengeance. "You’ll definitely need to chat with your stylist to find a version that’s most flattering on your unique skin tone and undertones, as not all reds work well on everyone," explains Temur Hamilton, premier hair colorist and stylist, owner of TEMUR.
As someone who hasn't dyed their hair before, it's high key very comforting to know that easing into a new color is wildly on trend. While these comforting fall hair color trends might just get me to make that salon appointment, scroll through for yourself to find the perfect fall hair color inspo.
Honey Butter Blonde
Blonde isn't a hair color exclusive to warmer months. In fact, several variations on the hue are coming in strong for fall. "Honey butter blonde is gaining popularity as clients shift away from the cooler, icy blondes that dominated the last few seasons," says Sean Michael, hairstylist and owner of Salon Beau. Honey butter blonde is a blend of soft golden and buttery tones, creating a more natural-looking blonde that Michael explains is flattering and easier to maintain. "It tends to work well on fair to medium skin tones with warm or neutral undertones, and it’s a great option for blondes looking to add dimension and warmth for fall without going too dark," he adds.
Caramel-Coated Highlights
While brunette shades might seem like a no-brainer for fall hair colors, they aren't all created equally. The addition of caramel highlights easily transforms a more basic brunette color. "Caramel highlights add richness and depth to brunette hair," says Hamilton. "These shades mimic the full hues and warm tones that we associate with fall, deep brown, and lighter golden-brown. It’s a great way to transition into the season, and I love this look on natural brunettes."
Natural Gray Roots
The series finale of And Just Like That might not have been what fans were expecting, but Carrie Bradshaw is still a trendsetter. According to Monique McMahon, global pro ambassador at Christophe Robin, gray blending is huge right now thanks to Sarah Jessica Parker's iconic character. "I love blended grey for my clients as it incorporates a touch of color with their natural gray as it grows out," she says. "Think soft foils to add glimmering lights and shadows to blend the grays rather than covering them. I’m here for this one, and my clients love it."
Warm Beige Brunette
"Warm beige brunette is characterized as a softer brunette with all the richness and none of the heaviness that can sometimes be associated with a classic brunette shade. Michael explains that "the beige undertones keep it from pulling too red or too cool, allowing the highlights to melt into the base tone for a smooth, cohesive look." He notes that this color is perfect for anyone who wants a subtle color change, blondes who are looking to go a bit darker, and brunettes wanting a refresh. "The tone adds depth and shine, while keeping the overall look soft and low maintenance."
Dark Honey
Dark honey is the color of choice for any of the blondes who want to explore the dark side without committing to going full on brunette. "This classic hair color embraces deeper, warmer blonde tones, for an overall darker look without going full brunette," says Hamilton. "It’s a recurring trend every fall because it’s beautiful, natural, and easy to maintain."
Rich Auburn
Winter saw an influx of red wine supernova hair à la Chappell Roan. However, fall is going more natural when exploring red hair color. "Red hues are always popular in the fall, and for my clients who want to incorporate red into their hair, I like to keep things sophisticated and classic with rich auburn," says Hamilton. "This look is definitely red, but unlike some of the super bright colors that have been trending recently (like “Cherry Cola” and “Cowboy Copper”) this one feels natural and timeless."
Burnt Caramel Balayage
Another way to incorporate caramel for fall is with a burnt caramel balayage look. This color is "all about layering warm caramel tones through a brunette base to create richness and depth without lifting the hair too light," says Michael. "It’s a great option for clients who want to brighten their color for fall without committing to blonde. It works especially well on medium to deep skin tones and pairs beautifully with textured or layered cuts, where the color placement enhances movement."
Strawberry Copper
Another highly wearable red is strawberry copper. This softer hue is dominating this year and is still standing strong for fall. "It blends golden and peach undertones into a copper base, making it lighter and less intense than a traditional red," says Michael. "This shade is especially flattering on fair to light-medium skin tones with warm or pink undertones, and it’s a great transitional color for blondes looking to explore red without going fully vibrant or deep."
Golden Chestnut Chocolate
Golden Chestnut Chocolate is the color to look out for. "Its luxe finish has everyone wanting this tone for fall," says McMahon. "It’s the next big thing for brunettes." She explains that many look for softer hues once fall rolls around that this specific color checks off all the right boxes. "Alluring, this hue has a deep chocolate base and shimmers of light golden chestnut. Golden chestnut chocolate is perfect for the green or brown eyed girls, and when our skin is a little paler than during the summer months and needs that extra glimmer to bring it to life."
Rory Gilmore Brunette
There is nothing more quintessentially fall than a Gilmore Girls moment. So when it comes to hair color, Rory Gilmore brunette is that vibe. "Rory Gilmore brunette is a soft, rich and dimensional medium brown," says Hamilton. "Gilmore Girls is often associated with autumn, so this is the perfect season to try out Rory’s very wearable, versatile shade. It looks great on almost everyone, and your colorist should be able to create a version of this style that best complements your skin tone and features."
Bronde
Bronde is the gift that keeps on giving, and it shows absolutely zero signs of going away any time soon. "We are seeing some larger, chunkier-style foils of blonde throughout the top and around the face," says McMahon. "It’s that perfectly effortless blonde tone that just about anyone can wear. Being the perfect balance of blonde and brown, it’s an easy low maintenance color that suits most skin tones and eye colors. Those chunky, blonde 90s foils are back, and looking so sophisticated when mixed with bronde."
Why Trust Marie Claire
For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.
Meet the Experts
]]>On days when I'm feeling fancy, I can solve my congestion problem by simply booking a facial and having the gunk and dirt in my pores extracted to reveal much softer, smoother skin. But that's not always the most economical or convenient route to take, so when I want to address clogged pores and texture at home, there's a special lineup of products I turn to to get the job done.
Ahead, you'll find my personalized skincare routine for addressing oiliness and skin congestion.
Deep Clean
Since I’m an oily girl, I gravitate towards heavy duty cleansers that work hard to remove dirt, excess oil, makeup, or any other product that can sit on my face and cause my pores to potentially clog. This means makeup removers that can break down foundation and complexion makeup in one go and cleansers with exfoliating acids that can prevent my pores from clogging in the first place.
I wear makeup almost everyday, so before bed, I always like to make sure I’m using a cleansing oil that can gently break down my makeup. This is one of my favorites; it has a really light texture that almost makes me forget that I’m even using an oil, and a small amount of it can typically go a long way.
Once my makeup is off, I like to wash a second time with a cleanser made specially for oily skin. This formula from La Roche-Posay does a great job of getting rid of excess oil on my face without making my skin feel overly dry or stripped of moisture.
I’ve used this cleanser almost daily for the last two months—it’s that good! It has exfoliating ingredients (like lactic acid) but it’s still gentle enough for me to use daily without any irritation or redness. It also has a light papaya scent that gives me a bit of an energy boost whenever I use it first thing in the morning.
I love the texture of this cleanser. It’s really soft, but once you actually start to work it into your skin, it transforms into a luscious foam that cleanses without being too rough. It also happens to be a Marie Claire award-winning product—just saying.
Tone It Down
It took me a while to understand how crucial it is to have a good toner (specifically an exfoliating one) in your routine if you want to give your skin a glassy look that you can actually maintain. Over the last few years, I've found the following products to be the most reliable.
In the many years that I’ve been using this toner, it hasn’t let me down once. I can always count on this to gently remove any traces of dirt or makeup that may have been left behind on my skin after cleansing, and any time I’ve noticed my skin feeling a little rough or bumpy, this has cleared it right up.
I love the convenience of a toning pad—they’re really easy to travel with and a great way to exfoliate if you don’t want to get your hands messy. These have a textured side that gently exfoliate along with the glycolic acid. They're not harsh on the skin and helped clear my congestion without any irritation or redness.
Mask On
I don’t mask very often, but when I do, I like to grab products that are specially designed to address excess oil and visible congestion. These are two that I’ve found to be pretty helpful in toning it down.
Sometimes clay masks can dry down and make you feel like there’s a block of cement stuck to your face, but what I love about this mask from Hero Cosmetics is that I can throw it on without necessarily feeling like I’m wearing a mask. It also transforms into a bubbly wash when you rinse it off.
This mask isn’t just for acne-prone skin. You can also use it if, like me, you frequently get small bumps or areas of texture around your nose and forehead. Colloidal sulfur absorbs excess oil on your skin, while azelaic acid can help reduce and prevent breakouts.
Moisture Boost
Since my skin is prone to oiliness, my favorite daytime moisturizers are pretty lightweight and don't feel heavy or greasy on my skin. This often means water-based formulas that absorb easily and have an airy feel.
Neutrogena's oil-free, non-comedogenic formula somehow manages to be both hydrating and soothing at the same time. I like to apply it in the mornings before applying SPF primer and makeup, since it keeps well under makeup without making me appear too oily by midday.
This moisturizer has a light, milky texture that hydrates while minimizing the appearance of excess oil thanks to niacinamide. It also doesn't hurt that it's under $20.
Why Trust Marie Claire
For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.
]]>"When you sleep, your skin goes into repair mode," says board-certified dermatologist Connie Yang, MD. Processes like cellular turnover, collagen production, and DNA repair go into hyper speed. It makes sense: At night, you're not fighting off UV rays and environmental aggressors. The skin gets hours to breathe and absorb all the good stuff without interruption. The 'good stuff' in question? "Reparative actives like retinoids, peptides, ceramides, and growth factors," says Dr. Yang.
And while all of this sounds great, the trick is choosing the right night cream formula. Some provide hydration while others focus on building collagen for firm, youthful-looking skin, and most have a heavier texture that acts as a seal to lock in moisture. So, to make it easier, I consulted a few board-certified dermatologists to share their top moisturizer picks for every skin type. Ahead, the best night creams to boost skin radiance while you sleep peacefully.
The Best Night Creams
- Best Overall Night Cream: Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Overnight Treatment
- Best Night Cream for Sensitive Skin: Avène Cicalfate+ Restorative Protective Cream
- Best Firming Night Cream: Naturium Multi-Peptide Rich Cream
- Best Reparative Night Cream: La Mer The Night Recovery Concentrate Treatment
- Best Moisturizing Night Cream: Dr. Barbara Sturm Face Cream Rich
This nighttime reparative moisturizer pulls its weight. It combines three powerful effects: hydrates with plumping humectants, strengthens and soothes the skin barrier, and delivers cell-signaling peptides to boost collagen production for a firmer, smoother complexion. And unlike most night creams, it has a silky texture that doesn't feel suffocating—instead it soaks in upon contact and you'll wake up to soft, not greasy, skin.
Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, polyglutamic acid (hydrates); Peptides (boosts collagen); Shea butter (moisturizes)
What I Love: Lighter texture and consistency that's almost like second-skin; Does the job of a moisturizer and a serum
What I Don't: Doesn't come with an applicator spatula, which can be unsanitary
Review for MC: "Beauty Director Hannah Baxter praises the corresponding serum from the same line, so I knew this formulation had merit. When I applied it, it felt incredibly silky, a big change from other heavy night creams, and blended like butter. I woke up with skin that was so healthy-looking and supple, I was blown away." — Siena Gagliano, Beauty Editor
You've likely heard from any of your beauty-obsessed friends that this is the crème de la crème of moisturizers. It works for any skin type, any time of day, and soothes the complexion while supporting overall skin health. (Not to mention, it also won the Best Overall Moisturizer in Marie Claire's Skin and Hair Awards.) Especially ideal for sensitive and reactive-prone skin, it's not only accepted by the National Eczema Association but also features the brand's proprietary thermal water and protein-rich postbiotics to restore a damaged barrier and lock in moisture.
Key Ingredients: Thermal spring water (soothes); Glycerin (hydrates); Amino acids (boosts skin barrier)
What I Love: Can calm itchiness and redness; Safe for any skin type; Can be used anywhere on the body that's irritated
What I Don't: Super thick texture that takes a minute to rub in before the white cast is blended in
Review for MC: "There are very few skincare products that I keep in my everyday rotation, which is saying a lot considering I'm a beauty editor who tests every new launch and trending product. This one is a staple that never leaves my shelf, and it's my do-it-all cream that feels ultra-luxe and I can always count on. There's a reason it's a holy grail in the beauty community."— Siena Gagliano, Beauty Editor
For just $25, you can get a luxury ingredient formulation that's comparable in price to a drugstore cream (at least these days). Naturium's latest moisturizer contains a slew of peptides that act as tiny messengers, signaling the skin to amp up collagen production, defend the skin barrier, and even heal wounds. The result? Smoother, firmer, more elastic skin with a youthful glow upon waking.
Key Ingredients: Palmitoyl pentapeptide-4, copper tripeptide-1 (boosts collagen); Glycerin (hydrates); Ferulic acid (protects with antioxidants)
What I Love: Affordable price tag with a luxury formulation; Targets aging, dry, and sensitive skin
What I Don't: Can be used in the morning per the directions, but may be too heavy
Review for MC: "My face gets really dry after I wash it at night, so this is something that I like to use as the last step in my skincare routine before bed. It's really thick and has kind of a balm consistency that you have to work into your skin, so I would say this is ideal for anyone who frequently struggles with dryness or dry patches. Also, for it to be a product that you can find in a drugstore, it feels pretty expensive and comes in really nice packaging. I'd say that my only gripe with it is that, because of its thickness, it doesn't glide or spread on your skin as easily as you might expect a moisturizer to (that's why it's called a "rich" cream), and if you're someone whose skin can get a little oily at times (like me) you may struggle with it feeling heavy or greasy on your skin." — Danielle Jackson, Senior Beauty Writer
La Mer sits pretty on your favorite celebrities' vanities, complete with a hefty price tag that makes you wonder if it's all just fancy packaging and hype. I hate to break it to you—it's worth every penny. In fact, it's one of the only moisturizers that healed my skin after retinol-induced irritation. The luxurious formula is especially ideal for calming and repairing skin after dermatologist treatments like facials, microneedling, or lasers.
Key Ingredients: Miracle Broth (brand's proprietary complex); Antioxidants (protects from environmental aggressors); Glycerin (hydrates); Probiotics (soothes)
What I Love: Time-released actives for prolonged effectiveness while you sleep; Soothes redness
What I Don't: Most expensive option on this list
Review for MC: "I've always loved La Mer's signature Crème de la Mer, I mean, how could you not? But after hearing the industry hype, I knew I had to try this treatment, and it did not disappoint. With its potent actives and delivery system, it's more of a treatment than a cream. It's pure magic, and I use it every time after a facial treatment at my dermatologist's office or whenever I increase my retinol strength." — Siena Gagliano, Beauty Editor
There's a reason every beauty girlie is posting pictures of Barbara Sturm products lined up in their bathrooms—they just work. Fun fact: Dr. Sturm is trained in anti-inflammatory medicine and takes a scientific approach to her skincare line. This means that her formulations are rooted in facts and research. Take this cream, for example: it contains ingredients that support skin renewal at a deep, cellular level, while its rich texture and hydrators deliver visible, immediate results on the surface.
Key Ingredients: Urea, panthenol (soothes); Glycerin (hydrates); Antioxidants (protects from environmental aggressors)
What I Love: Comes in weights for different skin types; Works to strengthen sensitive skin; Fragrance-free
What I Don't: A little goes a long way; however, I still run through it pretty quickly; pricey
Review for MC: "I have rosacea, dermatitis, and just generally sensitive, dry skin. I've tried a lot of moisturizers over the past decade as a beauty editor, but this is my holy grail. When I'm using it religiously, my skin behaves, my redness vanishes, and I adopt a glowy, hydrated finish that no serum or facial has ever been able to accomplish. If you know me, you know I think this is magic in a jar—I recommend it to everyone." — Samantha Holender, Senior Beauty Editor
French beauty never misses—and nothing proves that more than the iconic Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré. It combines dozens of products in one; my favorite nighttime uses include the essential moisture cream, a sleep mask, a makeup remover, and an aftershave soother. It's also made with moisturizing fatty acids to boost elasticity and create firmer skin. I'll call that a win, no?
Key Ingredients: Aloe vera (soothes); Fatty acids (boosts skin barrier)
What I Love: Can also be used as a makeup primer in the AM; A true multi-hyphenate; Lovely texture
What I Don't: Contains fragrance, which may irritate sensitive skin types
Customer Review: "I’ve used many different moisturisers but always come back to this one. It leaves skin looking healthy and plumped, providing the perfect makeup base. It also doubles as a hydrating mask and a cleanser, so it's perfect for travelling." — Dermstore
I've learned that if there's anyone's skincare routine worth emulating, it's a dermatologist's—obviously. This gem of a cream lives in the bathroom cabinet of board-certified dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon, Melanie Palm, MD. It delivers a powerhouse combo of actives: "proteins, peptides, growth factors, and exosomes to help with cellular repair, renewal, and provide a more youthful appearance to the skin," says Dr. Palm. In short, it's basically the secret to a flawless, plump, glowing complexion.
Key Ingredients: Proteins (boosts skin barrier); Peptides (boosts collagen); Growth factors (cell renewal); Niacinamide (improves skin tone and texture)
What I Love: Targets dark spots and aging marks; Protects against future damage with antioxidants
What I Don't: Not available on mass retailers
Customer Review: "I thought I was using an effective home care regimen, and then discovered INVO Aesthetics Rejuvenating Complex. It has been a game-changer for my aging skin! I noticed quickly that my skin looked and felt firmer, more hydrated, smoother, and had an overall glow to it! The clinical strength ingredients really have made a difference, very happy with the results!" — INVO
Those with oily and acne-prone skin might shy away from heavy night creams, worried they could clog pores or trigger breakouts. This one, however, tackles dead skin buildup and grime that contribute to breakouts with its chemical exfoliants. "The combination of retinol and PHA helps encourage skin turnover and gentle exfoliation while combating blemishes," says Dr. Yang. The result: smoother skin that slows signs of aging while keeping breakouts at bay.
Key Ingredients: Retinol (smoothes fine lines); PHA (chemically exfoliates); Hyaluronic acid (hydrates); Vitamin E (protects from environmental aggressors); Squalane (seals in moisture)
What I Love: Hydrating ingredients mitigate dryness from the chemical exfoliants and retinol; PHAs are the gentler cousins to AHAs/BHAs; Great mess-free, sanitary pump design
What I Don't: May need to incorporate it into routine slowly over time
Customer Review: "I have post-acne skin with some scarring and discoloration, so I’m always on the lookout for the perfect retinol—many are just too harsh. This one, though, is gentle yet effective. I really like the container—it’s easy to use and keeps things mess-free. The cream itself is super light, which I love, and it absorbs quickly without any sticky or heavy feeling. My skin feels smoother and more balanced with each use. OBAGI did it again!" — Dermstore
If you want the very definition of glass skin, any of U Beauty's products will deliver. This barrier-boosting overnight treatment, in particular, has transformed my complexion with its brightening and lifting powers. I wake up with skin that looks deeply hydrated and a glow that screams not eight, but a full 10 hours of sleep. The ingredients behind the magic? Exfoliating urea and fruit acids, plus peptides and antioxidants for supple, soft-looking skin.
Key Ingredients: Urea, fruit acids (exfoliates); Peptides (boosts collagen); Antioxidants (protects from environmental aggressors)
What I Love: Great for all skin types; Only needs to be used a few times per week; Creates plump and bright skin
What I Don't: Some testers noted that it transfers to their pillow
Customer Review: "I love how moisturizing this product is, will use it for the rest of my life. I’m 60 and my skin looks so fresh and dewy." — U Beauty
There are countless retinols on the market, each promising a return to youthful skin. It's hard to discern between marketing fluff and facts, but this one comes with a dermatologist's backing—Dr. Palm even uses it as a staple in her own routine and highly recommends it for mature skin. The secret? Its encapsulated retinol is paired alongside bakuchiol, one of the only retinol alternatives scientifically shown to deliver similar results. "This results in an increased tolerance of the retinol and a reduced amount of redness, dryness, and irritation," she says.
Key Ingredients: Retinol, bakuchiol (smooths fine lines); Vitamin C (brightens)
What I Love: Time-release retinol improves efficacy and reduces irritation; The brand provides different retinol strengths tailored to each stage of your retinol routine
What I Don't: Not a face cream texture, more of a serum that you combine with face creams
Customer Review: "I have been using this product for the last 2 years after seeing results almost instantly after my first use. Revision is my favorite brand of skincare ever. And this product is hands down my favorite. Not only does it erase my fine lines, but it also clears up breakouts while leaving my skin smooth and tight. An absolute staple in my skincare routine." — Dermstore
Is it pretty? Not really. Would I want it in my bathroom vanity solo-shot? Absolutely not. But does it work better than some of the most expensive moisturizers out there? Without a doubt. Behind its unassuming packaging is a powerhouse formula: ceramides that strengthen the skin's barrier and lock in moisture, hyaluronic acid for plumping hydration, and the National Eczema Association seal for gentle, irritation-free use. It deserves more hype—it's that good.
Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid (hydrates); Ceramides (boosts skin barrier)
What I Love: Most affordable option on this list; Lightweight, silky texture that packs major moisture without the heaviness; Can be worn at all times of the day
What I Don't: Unassuming packaging
Customer Review: "This moisturizer has good, clean ingredients that leave my skin feeling hydrated and soft. It's definitely nothing fancy or trendy, but IT WORKS BEAUTIFULLY!" — Ulta
Does Night Cream Really Work?
Yes, night creams work beautifully to achieve healthy, glowy skin. "There are many processes that become more active during sleep, including cell turnover, DNA repair, collagen synthesis, and barrier recovery," says Dr. Yang. While our minds rest, our bodies are in overdrive—preparing us for the next day and targeting skin repair.
Dr. Palm notes that studies suggest keratinocytes, or skin cells, "regenerate at a more rapid pace during nighttime sleep due to human growth hormone (HGH) levels naturally increasing at night." She also points out that melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep, is elevated at night and is believed to play a role in skin repair.
What’s the Difference Between a Night Cream and Day Cream?
The difference between a day moisturizer and a night cream is usually the consistency of the product and whether it protects you from the sun. Most AM moisturizers provide both hydration benefits and sunscreen to block UV rays.
“Generally speaking, but not as a complete rule, morning moisturizers tend to be lighter in consistency,” says Dr. Zeichner. “The skin undergoes daily circadian rhythms, where specific activities occur in the morning and others at night. We know that skin hydration levels start to decline in the afternoon and into the evening, which is why an evening moisturizer is important. These products tend to be thicker in consistency to address the dryness of the skin in the evening.”
How to Find the Best Night Cream
- Ingredients
Night creams typically contain three components: occlusives, humectants, and emollients. “Occlusives are ingredients (think: petrolatum or dimethicone) which form a protective seal over the skin to prevent water loss,'' says Dr. Zeichner.
“Humectants, like glycerin and hyaluronic acid, act like sponges and grab onto water to hydrate the other skin layer. Emollients are ingredients that soften rough cells on the skin surface and fill in cracks. Common emollients used in skin care products are natural oils and fatty alcohols.”
- Skin Type
"The types of ingredients you should look for in a night cream should be contingent on your skincare needs," says Dr. Palm. Here, she breaks them down by skin type.
Dry: Dry skin benefits from hyaluronic acid, peptides, ceramides, and glycerin, all of which provide hydration and support a healthy skin barrier.
Sensitive and Irritated: Look for creams with anti-inflammatory ingredients, like niacinamide or Matrixyl 3000 (a trademarked peptide). Formulas containing centella asiatica can soothe and repair sensitive skin. Avoid products with fragrance, alcohol, sulfates, or known allergens.
Mature: Night creams with retinol—a vitamin A derivative proven to accelerate skin turnover—paired with humectants like hyaluronic acid and ceramides, help retain moisture and support firmer, smoother skin.
Oily & Acne-Prone: Lighter formulations with salicylic acid help prevent breakouts, while niacinamide calms redness and irritation without clogging pores.
Why Trust Marie Claire?
For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion, and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.
How We Tested
Marie Claire Beauty Editor, Siena Gagliano, along with other beauty editors and writers, went through a vigorous testing period where they reviewed dozens of night creams. After determining the top picks alongside dermatologists and skincare experts, they tested each cream overnight over a series of multiple days.
Meet The Experts
]]>Angelica's Edit
Angelica is the definition of an L.A. cool girl—laid-back, but effortlessly put-together—and her comfy-chic picks reflect this. This classic all-black outfit with a cropped tank and flare-cut bottoms is giving model-off-duty, while the creamy ecru staples can be worn everywhere from her Pilates class to a girls' night.
Yoga pants have made a comeback, and fashion girls say they're here to stay.
Meet the cami that every closet needs. I'll take one in every color.
The perfect warm-up sweatshirt.
These trousers look so elegant, you'd never guess that they're also comfortable.
Tube tops are another Y2K trend that's made a comeback. Layer this with a jacket to run errands or a blazer for dinner.
Your new go-to pants for work, travel, and leisure.
A matching headband? Chef's kiss.
A tank dress is an easy one-and-done outfit that makes you look instantly put-together.
Sahara's Edit
Sahara channels East Coast elegance during her golden-hour run in this bold, emerald-green set. On cooler fall days, she'll top off the look with a lightweight jacket to shield herself from the breeze. She also loves preppy heather gray or classic navy pieces for workout classes in the city.
This forest-green colorway has my heart.
A windbreaker is a must for brisk fall days.
Stay warm and cozy in this plush emerald crewneck.
Add this scrunchie to your matching set.
The perfect high-waisted, slightly oversized joggers.
You'll never want to take off this ultra-soft hoodie.
Finally, a bra that's comfortable and supportive.
This buttery-soft fabric is everything.
I write this on a sweaty 87-degree August day during yet another New York City heat wave. I'm desperate for a cool breeze and, as a result, a chance to wrap myself in warmer, cozier colors. As much as I've enjoyed butter yellow as a neo-neutral and zippy blood orange brightening my summer wardrobe, the idea of a chocolate brown chunky sweater or pumpkin-spiced trousers is what I really want. Summer's vibrant color trends were fun — but now it's time to embrace fall's rich and decadent palette.
Consider this a straightforward guide on which colors to swap for the summer-to-fall transition in 2025, curated by a fashion editor who studies runways for a living and is slowly, surely, overcoming her resistance to change. Here are six summer shades to retire and welcome their new replacements.
Swap Butter Yellow for Mustard
Butter yellow has served me well, but fall 2025 is the time to give your warmer-toned counterpart, mustard yellow, a fighting chance in the fashion scene. The odds are already in its favor, especially since the mustard yellow trend received an endorsement from Marie Claire's editor-in-chief, Nikki Ogunnaike, in her Self Checkout newsletter. I plan to try the peppery yellow shade as a barn jacket or low-stakes T-shirt.
Swap Cherry Red for Rich Maroon
I fully committed to the cherry red trend and bought ballet flats and a new Coach bag to play with the juicy color pop. Those items won't be entirely benched in my fall fashion rotation, but they will lose some playing time now that I've researched the maroon color trend that dominated the Fall 2025 runways. Specifically, I'm eyeing a barn red argyle cardigan and a striped rugby shirt, as the season also sees a resurgence of collegiate preppy style.
Swap Black for Chocolate Brown
Black is a fundamental part of my wardrobe, and it will never be removed, now or in the future. That said, I'm also immune to the allure of luxurious cocoa brown, a color as delicious and hard to resist as my favorite sugar rush. Currently, my virtual shopping carts include chocolate-colored Adidas sneakers and a sweater vest to pair with wide-leg trousers for a casual-meets-preppy combination.
Swap Blood Orange for Pumpkin
Pumpkin orange, trending for fall, is as expected as florals for spring. But with spiced orange frilly midi skirts that flawlessly execute 2025's boho fashion revival, and fashion girl-favorite Staud putting its unique spin on the color trend, pumpkin feels fresher than ever. I plan to start the new season by swapping out my leather sandals for a pair of orange-tinted riding boots, a silhouette that also happens to be a top fall 2025 shoe trend.
Swap Lilac for Royal Purple
Choose a shade of purple; it has been a popular color trend recently, from digital lavender to vibrant lilac pastels in spring. But now, without a doubt, royal purple is taking center stage this fall. This shade is naturally associated with wealth and nobility, so any outfit you pick, whether a simple sweater dress or an east-west bag, will radiate rich-girl energy.
Swap Olive for Grass Green
Like purple, green has recently enjoyed its time in fashion's spotlight. First, there was the boldness of Charli XCX's brat green, then spring brought us the softer mint, which later evolved into summer's most discreet color trend, olive green. Now, the rise of verdant green is making waves, seen on the Fall 2025 runways at Prada, Gucci, and Saint Laurent. My budget doesn't quite allow for a designer splurge right now, so I'm considering J.Crew's cashmere collection as my entry into the grass green trend.
Unsurprisingly, my Pinterest mood board is already filled with countless baggy jean outfits, ranging from casual looks to polished styles. For relaxed weekend outings, I’ll wear barrel jeans with a basic T-shirt, a cozy cardigan, and knee-high boots. In contrast, for days at the office or after-work happy hours, I’ll pair trouser-like denim with a crisp button-down shirt, an oversized blazer, and sharp slingback shoes.
To pull these outfits together, I’m relying on my trusted denim collection, with pieces from Madewell, DL1961, and Mother. I’m also considering a few other styles from editor-approved brands like Frame, Agolde, and Everlane.
If you’re considering trying the roomy silhouette, feel free to check out my carefully selected edit below.
Ask me about Madewell’s Curvy Perfect Vintage jeans, and I’ll tell you that they’ve quickly become one of my favorite pairs of pants. They’re made with a contoured band and extra room around the hips, which makes them incredibly comfortable.
Championing stylish celebrities like Kendall Jenner and Katie Holmes, barrel jeans are a must-have in your capsule wardrobe.
Reformation's high-rise jeans will instantly elongate your legs for a flattering look.
Yes, you can wear white jeans after Labor Day! Just be sure to pair them with fall essentials like sweaters, trench coats, and ankle boots.
When I say that Mother’s cropped jeans feel as soft as a cashmere blanket, I’m not exaggerating. Put them on, and get ready to wear them all day long.
Dark wash denim is perfect for upscale events that require a more refined dress code. Pair these indigo pants with a stylish blouse and pointed pumps for your next night out.
Stitched with a puddle silhouette, Agolde puts a playful twist on the baggy jeans trend.
For those hesitant to try overly slouchy jeans, consider this pair from Still Here.
Abercrombie's collection of Curve Love jeans fits exceptionally well. They’re intentionally designed with an hourglass shape, so you won’t have to deal with an awkward waist gap.
Press-pleated jeans will never go out of style. Invest in these pants from Frame, and watch them stay in your closet for seasons to come.
Gap’s wide-leg jeans practically style themselves with built-in cuffs that add a dynamic edge.
Renowned for its inclusive range of sizes, Good American is perfect for women of all shapes. Explore styles that come in measurements from zero to 24.
Citizens of Humanity’s bootcut jeans will fit perfectly over any pair of stompers. You better believe I’ll be wearing these pants with my cowboy boots.
Drenched in a versatile shade, Paige’s medium wash jeans will complement a variety of casual outfits.
Travel back in time with these ‘70s-inspired bell-bottoms from Pistola. Amp up the vintage vibe with a ruffled chiffon shirt and sky-high wedges.
While exploring street style scenes from New York and Copenhagen, I saw numerous city residents wearing the classic top. One well-dressed urbanite layered on trends, pairing a striped rugby jersey with loose barrel jeans. Meanwhile, another gave a sophisticated twist to the athletic-inspired shirt by wearing a polished barn jacket, sleek Bermuda shorts, and stylish kitten heels.
Eager to jump on this sporty trend, I’ve put together a stylish shopping list for myself—and for you, of course. Keep scrolling to discover a selection of pieces from favorite brands like Aritzia, Madewell, and Everlane. Pair them with fall essentials—such as sharp trench coats, flowy denim maxi skirts, and riding boots—and you’ll easily complete your collection of autumn outfits.
Achieve a collegiate style by pairing Aritzia’s Lomu top with a pleated skirt and shiny loafers.
If you’re looking for a simple black-and-white shirt that goes well with almost anything, let me introduce you to this versatile piece.
Madewell’s rugby shirt features a blend of different-sized stripes for a dynamic twist.
Designed with a cropped silhouette, Reformation’s Anna top pairs perfectly with high-waisted bottoms. Try it with leather pants or wide-leg jeans.
Handle transitional weather with this short-sleeved rugby shirt that won’t make you sweat. If it gets colder, layer this top under another piece.
Unless you’re not in the mood to wear stripes, choose this solid-colored option from Gap.
Unlike traditional rugby shirts, this piece from Seven Wonders is made from a cozy knit blend. Finish the look with the brand’s matching shorts.
Maybe I’m biased because I grew up in Washington, D.C., but I can’t help but love Araminta James’s Georgetown shirt. I picture myself wearing this cute top with denim jeans and Adidas Sambas.
For a relaxed fit, try Ralph Lauren’s loose rugby shirt. Balance your look by pairing this top with slim bottoms.
Designed with bubblegum pink stripes, this Damson Madder shirt is incredibly stylish. If you’re craving sweet shades, add this style to your shopping cart.
Who knew chocolate brown could look so great with sky blue! It’s the unexpected color combo I didn’t realize I needed—until now.
Priced under $100, I recommend buying two of these tops from Everlane. The brand offers five different color options, including olive green and navy blue.
Guest in Residence is well known for its knitwear collection, but don’t overlook the brand’s selection of rugby shirts. They're just as good.
While definitely casual, this top can easily be dressed up. Just add a luxurious slip skirt and heeled mules, and you have a cute outfit for going out.
Go pantless in Good American’s striped mini dress. Complete the look with knee-high boots and anticipate endless compliments.
As to be expected, the most popular colors on the Fall 2025 runways also match what you'd expect from an autumn palette. Trench coats and thick cardigans were made in the ever-popular pumpkin-spice orange. Designers reimagined the warm maroons and yellows of falling leaves into leather jackets and jacquard suits, but with a richness that makes you think of a harvest feast rather than a maple tree in transition.
There's also the feeling that fall's color trends are irresistible because they're familiar and pull inspiration from nature. You don't need to be intimidated by a grape purple pump or a blazer that looks like butter lettuce—you've seen these organic shades before, just now they'll be in your closet rather than on your plate.
Chili Flake
Warm, peppery reds appeared in shows and became conversation-starting blouses at Khaite and Christopher John Rogers, as well as weatherproof parkas at Louis Vuitton and leather trench coats at Gabriela Hearst. When you style the shade yourself, try pairing the chili-colored red with warm tones, like brown knee-high boots or a tan trouser.
Willy Wonka's Chocolate Factory
Admittedly, a chocolate brown trend has been emerging for some time. But as seen with Fall 2025's supple leather separates, faux fur coats, and ruffled going-out tops that resemble Hershey's bars, deep, rich brown is only going to grow in popularity. Treat the shade like its neutral sister, black, and consider a head-to-toe monochromatic look.
Eat Your Greens
Brat green had its moment in the spotlight last year, and now it's time for lush lettuce to get some attention. Featured in a variety of silhouettes, from front-pleat trousers to bold-shouldered cocktail dresses and snakeskin bags, the bright, saturated green works best as a standalone color accent.
Gourd Season
Spiced orange frequently appears on fall runways, but unexpected, intricate textures made the color seem worth trying for a new season. From chevron-printed velvet shirt dresses at Gucci to lace turtlenecks at Saint Laurent and sparkly party pants at Miu Miu, the pumpkin patch shade is a familiar yet fresh pop of color this time around.
French's Classic Yellow
While summer 2025 introduced a mustard yellow color trend with golden beach cover-ups and snakeskin handbags, fall 2025 is when designers truly celebrate the Dijon hue. As midi skirts (Miu Miu and Alaïa), leather zip-up jackets, and rich jacquard suiting (Burberry) emerge, mustard yellow proves to be a comforting color with more impact than neutral-like butter yellow.
Grrrrrrrrrape
Royal purple took on a more energetic and unavoidable presence on the Fall 2025 runways. The specific shade of purple has historically represented wealth—going back to the Byzantine era—and designers embraced its regal connections with brushed suede (Gucci), velvet (Ralph Lauren and Nina Ricci), and soft leather (Miu Miu and Khaite). A well-made trouser or a high-quality knit in royal purple can add a touch of luxury and nobility to your modern fall wardrobe.
Listen, travel is amazing. Whether you’re sticking close to home or crossing time zones, visiting new places can open your eyes to other cultures and help you reap once-in-a-lifetime experiences. But it can also be expensive, draining your PTO days faster than you can say, ”Mon dieu, in this economy?” These days, we’re all about being thoughtfully frugal while remaining eager to learn how different folks live around the globe. Enter novels in translation, which can whisk you away from the doldrums of daily life and plant you anywhere from the Swiss Alps to a Berlin nightclub, no baggage fees required.
That’s why we’ve rounded up some of the most exciting translated novels and short story collections to check out when you can’t leave home, whatever the reason. From a debut book of short stories about resilient Mexican women to a #Booktok-approved Italian series and the latest novel from the first South Korean author to be awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature, these books are sure to stamp your (literary) passport. Below, check out some of the top translated novels and short stories to read now. Bon voyage!
Searching for a hot and horny novel? We got you. Imagined by Spanish writer Eva Baltasar (and translated from its original Spanish by Julia Sanches), Boulder follows a restless cook on a merchant ship. One day, when docked at port, the cook meets a geologist, Samsa, who gives the narrator her nickname, Boulder. Nothing stokes the flames of romance like being out at sea, and so Boulder pines for Samsa in a way that is at once delicious and maybe low-key destructive.
But when Samsa receives a job offer in Reykjavik, Boulder jumps ship and joins her girlfriend to live in a type of domestic bliss that leaves the narrator unmoored and listless. Then Samsa decides that she wants to have a child, which pushes Boulder further onto the edges of their relationship. At once an examination of motherhood, queer love, and the sacrifice of oneself for the sake of another, Boulder is a lusty exploration of contemporary relationships.
Robert Seethaler’s feel-good novel, translated by Katy Derbyshire, will deliver all the cozy vibes you could want. It’s 1966 in Vienna, and Simon is leaving his job working at the local market to revitalize a shuttered corner café. With the space spruced up and the doors open, Simon welcomes folks from all walks of life into his establishment. A testament to found family and the importance of community, The Café With No Name is a narrative about people often overlooked or neglected, banding together to support one another while swapping a story or two.
Diehards of Amor Towles's bestselling A Gentleman in Moscow will relish this novel’s gentle, timeless prose that challenges the belief that all stories must be doom and gloom to be relevant or captivating. With characters who will long stay with you after you’ve finished, The Café With No Name is a must for everyone’s TBR.
If every season is spooky season for you, don’t sleep on The Dangers of Smoking in Bed. This short story collection by Argentine author Mariana Enriquez delves into all sorts of twisty terror, often blurring folklore with other forms of the macabre. Take, for example, one story that features the haunting by a baby, relentless in its torment of the narrator. Or the title story, which is thick with foreboding after a woman hears that an apartment next door has been burned down, so, to calm her nerves, she lights a cigarette...under her bed covers. In all of Enriquez’s stories (translated by Megan McDowell), reality and fiction bend at disturbing angles, producing divinely chilling results.
Want more? If you’re looking to sink your teeth into something a little longer, consider Our Share of the Night, Enriquez’s family saga that follows a cult worshipping a form of dark witchcraft.
Janina is an older woman who’s found refuge in a quiet countryside village in Poland. While the town bustles with activity during the summer months, it becomes all but a ghost town once the temperatures plummet. With only her neighbors Big Foot and Oddball around, Janina relishes the surrounding natural beauty, passing the time by translating William Blake. But then Big Foot is found dead, and Janina’s curiosity is piqued. After several other local hunters go missing—and resurface dead—Janina, a devoted vegetarian, concocts a theory over what’s happened to the men: The animals are waging revenge.
With a humdinger of a reveal that got #BookTok talking, Drive Your Plow Over the Bones of the Dead crackles with propulsive suspense. Perfect for fans of mysteries like True Detective and Fargo, this novel won’t disappoint.
What would you do if your family earned its wealth by investing in the arms industry? Such is the premise for Kracht’s 2024 novel, Eurotrash, which dares to ask poignant and unflinching questions. Christian, the fictional narrator of the novel, has been called to Zurich by his elderly mother, who refuses everything from the internet (“too complicated”) to cell phones (“buttons are too small”).
Much to Christian’s chagrin, his mother, newly free from a psychiatric hospital, is as confounding and frustrating as ever, especially as they embark on a road trip through Germany and Switzerland. While on the road, Christian attempts to pay reparations for his family’s past misdeeds to varying degrees of success. Eurotrash is a raucous story with a thrumming undercurrent about legacy, personal responsibility, and family ties that’ll keep you turning pages well after your bedtime.
Fresh off its win of the 2025 International Booker Prize, Heart Lamp, a collection of stories by journalist and author Banu Mushtaq, showcases Muslim women and girls living in Southern India. Equally tender and hilarious, the stories in Heart Lamp touch on topics from breaking with the convention of gender roles and the language that goes along with it. Elsewhere in the story collection, regular women navigate family dynamics and question their faith. Deeply moving and relatable, Heart Lamp is the perfect gift for your friend who’s read everything.
Isabel Allende fled her home in Chile for Venezuela in the 1970s after a political coup brought threats to her door. Since then, Allende has dug into her country’s past in her numerous novels (and launched a non-profit supporting women’s rights).
With over 20 novels to her name, it can be daunting to decide where to start with Allende's body of work. For us, beginning with her debut, The House of the Spirits, is a no-brainer. This sprawling epic follows the Trueba family as generations live through uprisings and tragedy. Anchoring the novel are Esteban and Clara Trueba, the latter possessing an uncanny ability to predict the future through premonitions. As the couple starts a family, their offspring bob and weave through ongoing political and personal turmoil.
Fully engrossing, this novel serves not only as a crash course in Chilean history but also as a dance through dreamlike scenes that somehow manage to root the characters in their real-life circumstances. If you’re itching for something with a whiff of the Yellowstone universe joined by a dash of magical realism, congrats, you just found your next read.
No one knows you quite like your childhood best friend. This is especially the case for Elena, the narrator of the first installment in the four-part Neapolitan series by Elena Ferrante. At the top of the novel, 60-year-old Elena finds out that her longtime friend, Lila, has gone missing. Encouraging Lila’s worried son to let her friend be, Elena reflects on their friendship, writing down what she can recall of their complicated yet loving bond.
So begins the tale of Lila and Elena. Meeting in the 1950s in Naples, Elena and Lila find a match in each other, oftentimes competing, especially in their studies. But as they approach middle school, their paths diverge: Elena goes on to school while Lila is forced to work in her father’s shoe shop, no matter her intelligence. Jealousy ensues.
Unfurled in a hypnotizing, simple prose (translated by Ann Goldstein), My Brilliant Friend (and the rest of the Neapolitan series), will hook you from the first chapter, welcoming you to historic Naples.
It’s not every day that a debut short story collection is longlisted for the International Booker Prize, but that’s exactly the case for Reservoir Bitches by Dahlia de la Cerda (translated by Julia Sanches and Heather Cleary, respectively). Across 13 stories, de la Cerda illuminates the spectrum of experiences of Mexican women. From a protagonist hunting down unconventional abortion methods to the daughter of a Cartel figurehead making her way through the world, de la Cerda’s prose is unflinching, scathing, and, yes, funny. With a flair for dark comedy and a voice that feels like you’re chilling with your girlfriends, Reservoir Bitches is the ideal companion for when you can’t decide if you should be laughing or crying over life.
Fans of Fleabag, Veep, or Fundamentally by Nussaibah Younis (another dark comedy must-read) will especially want to pick up Reservoir Bitches; de la Cerda manages to make even the most outlandish situations convincing, given her incisive characters and sheared-back style.
“I didn’t know what to do, so I went swimming,” writes Colombe Schneck in her auto-fiction novel. Thanks to its varying points of view and frank perspectives, this book will keep you in an absolute chokehold as Schneck returns to critical moments throughout her (thinly fictionalized) life. From easily accessing an abortion as a teenager in Paris to navigating the terminal illness of a friend to losing a lover (while gaining a hobby: swimming), Swimming in Paris suggests that, if one is capable of holding their breath while moving through whatever life flings their way, a good story, at the very least, is sure to be gained.
Don’t be fooled that this slim novel is penned for young adults. Trees for Absentees, by Ahlam Bsharat (translated from its original Arabic by Ruth Ahmedzai-Kemp and Sue Copeland), will shake you to your core. This coming-of-age story is set in occupied Palestine and follows university student Philistia, who's reeling from her grandmother’s death. What’s worse, her father is being held in an Israeli prison. Alone for the first time in her life, Philistia resorts to the skills and traditions imbued in her by her grandmother: cleaning the bodies of local women at the hammam, or Turkish baths. As she goes about her tasks, Philistia finds herself in a dreamland, waltzing between fantasy and reality.
Trees for the Absentees is more prescient than ever. Published in 2019, before the current conflict between Israel and Palestine erupted, this novella puts a face to the many impacted by the current humanitarian crisis in Gaza and wider Palestine.
The latest novel from Han Kang, the first Korean to be awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature, We Do Not Part is a heady story steeped in magical realism. As a result, the novel is impactful and heartrending as Kang grapples with generational trauma from a frequently overlooked moment in Korean history: the Jeju Uprising and the subsequent violence it spurred.
In the novel, Kyungha is a writer living in Seoul. Plagued by nightmares after completing a book about an unnamed massacre in Korea, Kyungha is reminded of the rampage everywhere she turns. Meanwhile, her friend Inseon, a documentary filmmaker who has returned from Jeju Island, is in the hospital without a way to return to the island to feed her beloved bird. In one of the biggest shows of friendship ever, Kyungha sets off to Jeju Island while a blizzard is brewing, all to spare the bird from missing its daily macros.
Once at Inseon’s home, Kyungha is confronted with the past of her friend’s family. And, as the snow piles outside the windows, so too does the tension thrillingly build within the house. A gripping story of the history that haunts us, Kang highlights an important time in Korean history while illuminating the ongoing damage it caused.
Summer's not officially over, but when you're a fashion editor, you're always one season ahead. So in our world, it's technically fall, and I'm not mad at it. We've spent the last few months trend forecasting, attending fall previews, and test-driving new styles. It's finally time to start adding items to our wish lists and carts, and let's just say I have some gems for you below. It's the perfect mix of trend-driven pieces and the classics for all the style personas you'll be embodying next season. Consider this your fall style guide featuring bags, sneakers, jackets, activewear, jewelry, and more.
Does it get any chicer than this top?
Fashion people in major cities will be sporting these retro sneakers come fall. Mark my words.
Every outfit is suddenly 10 times more stylish when this pine-green bag is slung over your shoulder.
The Western trend isn't going anywhere for fall. The embroidery work on this jacket is perfect.
Here's some more evidence to support my claim above. The Western wear continues.
I can't get over the wrap detailing at the ankle.
Give your black sunglasses a break, and opt for these instead.
I'm envisioning this with a long trench coat and a pair of loafers.
Don't forget the matching pants.
PSA: Your activewear doesn't have to be black, white, or gray.
Make it a set, and your confidence will increase tenfold. Trust me.
Am I a golfer? No. Do I need this dress? Yes.
The croc-effect suede, the mixed-metal hardware, and the elongated shape. I'm swooning.
Polka dots are so back.
This is your reminder that you can (and should) style stripes all year round.
Four-way stretch, wrinkle-resistant, and made from recyclable materials? When I'm not wearing these to the office, I'll be wearing them to the airport.
When it comes to fun footwear, Freda Salvador always delivers.
Coming to a groufit near you.
The controversial trend of 2012 is in full effect. Prepare to see your favorite fashion people wearing pops of peplum this fall.
Flare leggings, you will always be famous.
The textured satin kicks this waistcoat up a notch.
Rugby shirts are a 2024 trend that just won't let up, and I'm not mad about it. The zipper detailing is a cool touch.
Sleek.
If you're a neutral dresser, I recommend relying on bold bags like this one to spice up your look.
You have seven colorways to choose from, but this particular shade of blue is speaking to me.
I fully endorse pajamas in public if and only if they look as chic as this set.
My fellow editor, Kaitlin Clapinski, has these heels, and now they live in my head rent-free.
A jacket so good I'm considering it in two colors. I can't decide between the burgundy collar and the blue collar.
Peep the bra closure at the waistband.
Statement earrings that are guaranteed to elevate any and every look.
Are you ready for the return of the cape? Start here.
Proof that beaded necklaces are fall appropriate too.
For this week’s newsletter, I’m tackling lazy-day looks. With just a few weeks left in August (and September back-to-school vibes on the horizon), I’m dedicating less time to concocting outfits and more to truly soaking up the last days, taking it easy. Sounds dramatic, but sometimes you just have to turn your brain off, ya know? Let’s get into it!
BOXY MINI DRESSES AND NAKED SANDALS:
Balance a voluminous dress with a barely-there sandal and you’ve got yourself an easy, breezy, high-summer look. Bonus points if the dress is a juicy, bold color like this orange one.
JUMPSUITS AND HIGH HEELS:
This is a combo I often deploy in the office or on extra busy days. The heels help dress up an inherently casual piece of clothing.
TENNIS DRESS AND SNEAKERS:
I’ve seen the beauty of the exercise dress and there’s no going back. Athleisure, but slightly more elevated. What’s not to love?
Reading List
First time reading Self Checkout? Catch up on the past few weeks.
That’s not to say I haven’t enjoyed experimenting with the summer ‘25 bag trends—my raffia bucket bag has served me very well over the last three months, and I plan to keep my cheetah crossbody in rotation for a few more weeks. It’s more that the bags shown on the Fall 2025 runways were so tempting, delicious, and decadent—three words: chocolate brown snakeskin— that I’m eager to give them a try even though August has only just begun.
Consider the below a glimpse into the designer handbags on my radar and the affordable styles inside my virtual shopping carts across Madewell, Nordstrom, and Free People. From boho bags with enduring Y2K appeal to slouchy shoulder bags in caramel-colored leather, these are my favorite fall bag trends getting an early start.
Brown Leather Bags
Right as I've grown a bit bored of my neutral black handbags, fashion pivots toward embracing brown, specifically warm caramel colors. The natural shade offers a bit more dimension than solid black, as seen in the pebble leather crossbody seen on Calvin Klein's Fall 2025 runway.
If, for whatever reason, you've not yet heard of Coach's Brooklyn bag, fall 2025 is the ideal time to get acquainted with the viral, Bella Hadid-approved, Marie Claire editor-vetted tote. I'm partial to its medium-sized cappuccino suede iteration.
Here's another boho bag that's calling my name—this one from Madewell with eye-catching gold studs that are surely compliment magnets.
I'm a sucker for a slouchy handbag—which is why I've been eyeing Free People's Roma bag for (and this isn't an exaggeration) five straight months. Now's the time to commit.
Snake Print Bags
After leopard print and cheetah spots had their time in the fashion spotlight, designers decree that it's now snakeskin's time to shine. Miu Miu led the charge for the Fall 2025 season, sending out a series of snake print mini top-handle totes and east-west bags in warm mahogany and sooty gray.
See my aforementioned note about slouchy bags—I can't resist!
That said, I also appreciate a bag with a more structured, intentional design, like Isabel Marant's half-moon, studded Skano, another easy nod to the ongoing boho revival.
This black-and-white snake print purse would be an easy addition to my various all-black going-out outfits.
This snake-patterned Mango shoulder bag with gold accents looks far more expensive than it actually is—and it's currently 45 percent off, making it even more of a no-brainer buy.
I'm a simple girl: I see the name Ganni, the Scandi label that's become a calling card for cool girls, and I click.
Padlock and Key Bags
As you've likely already detected from the proliferation of suede and studs—and my use of "boho" five times so far (I counted)—it's a big season for the free-spirited aesthetic. The various kitschy padlocks and key accents on handbags scattered across the season's top runways—namely, Chloé's re-imagined Y2K-era Paddington bags—doubled down on the boho boom.
I imagine this distressed-looking brown-black bag slung over a white maxi skirt and a cropped sweater for a casual Saturday.
Full disclosure: I actually already own the Marc Jacobs Cristina bag, though I have the black leather satchel style. After quickly falling in love with the lock-and-key style, I'm also eyeing the tote bag in ivory, which would be a very chic upgrade to my current beat-up canvas tote.
Chocolate brown strikes again! This decadent dark handbag, contrasted with a metal lock decal, is everything I want in a rich-looking purse.
Mark my words: DeMellier London is the bag brand you might not be familiar with now, but you're about to be in a few months. The Kate Middleton-approved label is known for its high-quality leather goods at mid-tier pricing, like its Siena style.
I've been on the market for a clutch that won't be awkward to carry. This top-handle style in ostrich-embossed brown leather with a sculptural key decal might be the one that moves me to press "buy".
Quilted Bags
As seen at Gucci, as well as Chanel, Miu Miu, and Fendi, craft-centric quilted handbags are about to be on every city block and every in-the-know retailer shelf. As much as I do love the refined look of a puffed and padded leather handbag, I'm also on the hunt for an anti-fussy quilted tote I can throw on and go, like Free People's.
What's not to love about Coach's everlasting quilted Tabby bag? The classic shoulder bag is so versatile, it appeals to a vast assortment of It girls, ranging from Charli XCX to Jennifer Lopez.
At first glance and after some cursory clicks into its reviews, I just know that this $78 quilted carry-all is about to make my trips to the gym and park picnics that much easier.
A more under-the-radar, neutral take on must-touch quilting, Tory Burch's Kira wallet bag is a fail-safe addition to almost any outfit imaginable.
Be warned: If you add this quilted brown suede bag with a light-catching chain strap to your collection, expect to be repeatedly stopped by strangers and asked where it's from. It's that good.
I am not, nor ever will I be, over the cherry red color trend. The juicy shade is a scrumptious color pop that, in my book, is almost a neutral at this point.
If you peruse the latest Fall 2025 collections, you’ll find that some labels are championing the classics. Calvin Klein has an earth-toned plaid button-down shirt that practically screams, “cabincore,” and Burberry’s assortment includes a Scottish-inspired tartan skirt. Meanwhile, other fashion houses are giving the tried-and-true print a colorful punch-up. Take, for example, Bally and Vivienne Westwood, both of which offer striking plaid garments in eye-catching primary colors.
Bottom line? The grid-like pattern is here to stay for fall 2025—and for many seasons to come. Scroll on to find a curated edit of all the best plaid pieces that have landed a top spot on my shopping list. From casual plaid tops fit for apple picking to chic checkered dresses to wear while sipping on pumpkin spice martinis, you’ll discover a range of styles for any autumn occasion.
Deep hues of cherry red are trending this season. I’ll be incorporating the juicy shade into my fall wardrobe with this checked cotton button-down, courtesy of Mango.
Designed with puff sleeves, a ruched bodice, and a floaty skirt, Reformation’s Rhett dress feels oh-so boho.
Free People’s Chloe pants are cut from lightweight knit fabric, so I know they’re super cozy.
When you don’t feel like putting a ton of energy into your look, slip into this maxi skirt and style it with a white T-shirt, moto boots, and a sleek shoulder bag.
For those warm fall days that feel more like summer, consider Mango’s thigh-skimming plaid mini dress.
I already own Aritzia’s New Agency pants in black, but I can’t seem to resist this version plastered with plaid.
This polished blazer from Avec Les Filles is going straight into my workwear wardrobe.
I’m swiftly falling for Damson Madder’s Mansi dress, thanks to its charming ruffled edges.
A few weeks ago I saw my best friend wearing this chocolate brown top, and I knew I had to have it. After inquiring about the piece, she pointed me in the direction of With Jean.
For under $10, you might as well buy two of these soft plaid mini skirts from Zara.
Crafted with cropped sleeves, Reformation’s Wren blazer is the true definition of a transitional staple. It’ll provide enough coverage, without causing you to overheat.
This season, I plan to embrace my horse-girl era by going full-on Western. I can’t wait to team this top with flared jeans and cowboy boots.
If you’re in the market for a cropped trench coat, reach for this statement-making option from Favorite Daughter.
Zhuzh up your rotation of fall outfits using Zara’s multi-colored skirt. This floor-sweeping number boasts vivid shades of maroon and orange that are synonymous with fall.
What I love most about Apres Studio’s plaid button-up is its curved construction, which subtly accentuates the waist in a flattering way.
Okay, I know it’s not winter just yet—but hear me out! It’s never too late to stock up on heavy-duty outerwear. Do just that with Mango’s oversized coat, woven with chunky knit fabric and done in a black-and-gray print.
Either way, I know I'm not alone—the fact that the market is stacked with remedies for itchy scalp, flakes, dandruff, and everything in between is evidence. Still, it's taken me years to finally settle on a lineup of haircare products that are not only designed to provide relief from the issues above, but also actually work for me.
My personal scalp care routine has come a long way, but if you're curious about what products I'm quick to grab when dry scalp and flaking are an issue (or if you're looking for some products to try out on your own), read ahead to find out.
Wash This Way
Of course, the first step to addressing a flaky scalp is to shampoo. These formulas are detoxifying and include ingredients that hydrate and lift buildup off the scalp for healthier results all around.
After testing out the entire Cécred lineup last year (including the viral edge drops), this happened to be one of my favorite products of the bunch. The bottle itself has a nozzle, which makes it easy to apply straight to the scalp, and even though it's a scrub (with tea tree oil that detoxes and lifts dirt!), the micro-crystals are small enough to exfoliate without being harsh on the scalp.
Salicylic acid is often present in medicated shampoos, but it makes an appearance here alongside lactic acid to clear away dirt, oil, buildup, and dandruff. The charcoal in the formula also has a detoxifying effect that feels cooling and refreshing on the scalp.
Moisture Boosters
The best way to follow a deep-cleaning shampoo is with a super-hydrating conditioner that adds all the moisture back to your strands. I'll be a fan of these picks forever.
This conditioner doesn't address anything specific for flakiness, but I like to use it since it's one of the best conditioners I've come across for my color-treated hair. It softens my hair almost instantly and even makes detangling a breeze.
I'm a big fan of this conditioner because of its soft texture, but I also love it because it smells great, it has amazing slip, and it's light enough to condition my hair as opposed to sitting on top of it like thicker products.
Scrub It Out
Ever shampooed your hair and then realized after you've already rinsed out the soap that there's still some leftover buildup on your scalp? This would happen to me after almost every shampoo until I finally started using a scrubber while cleansing my hair. The bristles usually help lift up dirt and flakes much better than my fingers can.
This is the scalp massager I use every time I wash my hair. The pointed bristles may look a little intimidating, but they're just pointy enough to exfoliate away dirt and dead skin while still being gentle.
Grab this 3-in-1 tool if you want to exfoliate your scalp, stimulate blood flow, and detangle your hair all at the same time. The bristles are a lot smaller, but they're spaced far enough apart that they won't tug or pull on your hair.
Oil Up
To keep my scalp moisturized, I like to alternate between oils and serums—scalp oils come in handy when I want some moisture but I also know that I'll be giving myself a heavy duty wash within the next day or two (they can sometimes be heavy and cause buildup), while serums are my go-to when I want something a little lighter that'll still moisturize and address overall scalp health.
After taking an online quiz in which I specified my flaky scalp issues, I was given a custom scalp oil from Prose. It's one of my favorite oils to use, not only because it's on the lighter side, but also because it's lightly fragranced and doesn't have the heavy, greasy smell that some hair oils do.
This drugstore spray comes in handy when I'm wearing my hair in braids or any protective style, since I can just spritz some on my scalp and throughout my braids to moisturize my hair while it's tucked away.
Speaking of protective styles, my scalp tends to get irritated with braids and braiding hair within the first few days of getting them installed. To soothe it, I like to apply a few drops of this squalane-forward serum to my head, which reduces irritation and gets rid of flakes before they even have a chance to appear.
Hyaluronic acid is already known as a hero moisturizing ingredient for your skin, so why would it not have the same effect on your hair? Along with squalane, it's a featured ingredient in this serum, which hydrates the scalp while promoting barrier function.
Why Trust Marie Claire
For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion, and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.
]]>For polka-dot outfit inspiration, I’ve scoped out Copenhagen Fashion Week's street style scene, where savvy It girls are wearing specks of all shapes and sizes. One showgoer styled a spotted slip skirt with a classic T-shirt, a sharp trench coat, and polished sandals. Another teamed a polka-dot blouse with tailored trousers and knee-high boots.
To no surprise, the bold print has even infiltrated celebrity circles. Hailey Bieber recently swapped her tried-and-true baggy jeans for a pair of polished polka-dot capri pants—which she wore with a boatneck tank top, sleek flip-flops, and a mini handbag.
Inspired by the many ways to style polka dots—now and through fall—I’ve decided to try the trend for myself. Ahead, you’ll find a handpicked edit of my favorite polka-dot pieces from brands like Reformation, Zara, and Dôen. Whether you’re searching for statement-making styles covered in colossal circles or minimal designs covered in tiny dots, there’s a little something for everyone.
Follow Hailey Bieber’s lead with a pair of white capris adorned with black spots.
Chocolate brown is one of summer’s most viral color trends—and it will dominate fall, too. So, go ahead and give the delectable shade a taste.
Y2K’s halter top trend has officially received the It-girl seal of approval. So, needless to say, this top from Lioness has made its way to the top of my wish list.
Thanks to Mango’s belted polka-dot dress, my rotation of work uniforms is now complete.
With Jean’s Maeve skirt delivers a dose of drama with a playful asymmetrical hemline.
Champion fashion’s girlhood aesthetic with Reformation's Cherry top, which features a charming bow detail.
If you’re feeling edgy, slip into these ballet flats from Loeffler Randall. Drenched in a cherry red hue and embellished with silver studs, these shoes are bound to make heads turn.
For the minimalists out there who prefer pared-down pieces, consider Elodie the Label’s streamlined skirt decorated with itsy-bitsy dots.
On the other hand, for a maximal appeal, try AFRM’s pink and purple spotted bodysuit
This dress from Amanda Uprichard is indeed summery, but it can work well beyond warm-weather occasions. Simply throw on a denim jacket and knee-high boots—and voilà! You’ve got yourself an easy transitional outfit.
Not afraid to test-drive the naked dress trend? Pull on this sheer frock stitched with a translucent chiffon skirt.
Sam Edelman’s Bianka shoes aren’t your ordinary black slingbacks. Look closely and you’ll notice that these slip-ons are made with dotted mesh fabric.
There’s nothing I love more than an off-the-shoulder top. I can’t wait to style this piece for my next going-out outfit.
Stand out from the crowd in Hemant and Nandita’s polka-dot pants. For a matchy-matchy look, team these bottoms with the brand’s coordinating button-down top.
Cut from sophisticated satin fabric, this slip skirt feels undoubtedly refined.
Provided that you’re not in the mood to spend a pretty penny, reach for Zara’s affordable mesh flats.
Fashion editors can’t seem to stop raving about Dôen (which just so happens to be one of Taylor Swift’s favorite brands). I plan to try the celeb-approved label, starting with this stunning silk dress.
To make things easier for you—there are hundreds of options to choose from after all—I rounded up the 16 best liquid lipstick formulas on the market right now. These are all precisely what you want out of a liquid lipstick, meaning you can swipe, go, and not worry that your red lip is all over your chin or teeth by lunchtime.
Keep reading to discover the best formula for you, with picks for every budget, including drugstore options. Whether you're searching for a formula that don't budge or transfer, is super long-lasting, a moisturizing formula for dry lips, or a luxury pick (or better yet, all of the above) here are the 16 vetted products I love for a liquid lipstick option.
The Best Liquid Lipsticks
- Best Liquid Lipstick Overall: Chanel Rouge Allure Ink Matte Liquid Lip Colour
- Best Drugstore Liquid Lipstick Overall: Revlon Ultra HD Matte Lipcolor
- Best Red Liquid Lipstick: Lancôme L'Absolu Rouge Drama Ink Liquid Lipstick
- Best Long-Lasting Liquid Lipstick: Stila Stay All Day® Liquid Lipstick
- Best Luxury Liquid Lipstick: Rouge Dior Forever Liquid Transfer-Proof Lipstick
- Best Matte Liquid Lipstick: Glossier G Suit Soft Touch Matte Liquid Lip Crème
As far as liquid lipsticks go, this is my holy grail. I wear this Chanel liquid lipstick whenever I have a special occasion because it's the perfect balance between a matte and velvet finish, never has any transfer, and doesn't dry out your lips.
Texture: Velvet
Finish: Matte
What I Love: Non-transfer formula, non-drying, high-impact color
What I Don't: Pricey
Review for MC: "This color is consistent with the formula in that it goes on smoothly, stays liquid for about 30 seconds, and then dries down to a matte finish that is just slightly tacky for the first minute or two. It is not overly drying, but I find it much more comfortable with a bit of gloss on top. Wear time is excellent--wears down to an even stain and reapplies well. Does not bleed all over the face either. If you like the formula and are looking for a lovely neutral, you cannot go wrong with this." — Nordstrom
Who doesn't want a $9 lipstick? Okay, next question—who doesn't want a $9 lipstick that feels like a much more expensive formula? This lightweight liquid lipstick goes on smoothly and hydrates lips with ease. The color is also long-wearing and highly pigmented.
Texture: Velvet
Finish: Matte
What I Love: Non-transfer formula, high-impact color
What I Don't: Slightly drying
Review for MC: "Although it feels a little dry, the looks and durability is just perfect. Beautiful, bold colors and great look. I already have two and will be adding more to my collection soon." — Amazon
Lancôme's liquid lipstick is comfortable and packs a major punch with this luxe red shade. It also lasts all day long so you can wear it from the office to drinks without having to reapply. Is there anything better than a set it and forget it formula?
Texture: Satin
Finish: Semi-matte
What I Love: Non-transfer formula, non-drying
What I Don't: Some may not like the applicator
Review for MC: "This is the very best lip color I’ve ever used and at 66 years old I’ve used many. So silky smooth, light and long lasting color."
Ask anyone you know who wears liquid lipstick frequently and they've likely reached for this Stila formula. That's because this lipstick delivers high-impact color that doesn't feel drying thanks to vitamin E and avocado oil. But even with the extra hydrators, the formula refuses to budge throughout the day.
Texture: Satin
Finish: Creamy matte
What I Love: Non-drying, high-impact color
What I Don't: Hard to take off
Review for MC: "This liquid lipstick is superb! It really does stay on all day. I also love love love the matte finish. I purchased this in fiery. Every brown gal needs to own this color :) This has been my go-to lipstick this summer. Because this liquid lipstick has a matte finish, it tends to make your lips feel very dry. I suggest priming and moisturizing your lips with MAC's lip conditioner (tube), blot off the excess, then apply the liquid lipstick. Your lips will stay moisturized ALL day!" — Nordstrom
When Dior says transfer-proof, it means transfer-proof. This lipstick will last through whatever you throw at it—hot coffee, a mask, a long night out—you name it. Plus, it also doesn't settle into creases or dry out your lips throughout the day. And, not for nothing, the packaging looks so chic when you pull it out of your tote bag.
Texture: Velvet
Finish: Matte
What I Like: Non-transfer formula, non-drying
What I Don't: Might not be as pigmented as some other formulas
Review for MC: "The no-transfer aspect is the real deal. The feel is not dry at all, which is quite miraculous. This Dior Forever Liquid formulation really feels luxurious." — Sephora
The best thing about this liquid lipstick? It doesn't feel like you're wearing liquid lipstick. In fact, it doesn't feel like you're wearing anything at all—it's so lightweight and nourishing that you'll forget you have it on, even though it lasts for hours on end.
Texture: Creamy
Finish: Demi-matte
What I Love: Weightless, comfortable feel, long-lasting color, easy-to-use applicator
What I Don't: Packaging feels a little cheap, not the most transfer-proof formula
Review for MC: "These lip colors are perfect. The finish is super moisturizing and the color lasts a long time. They are not sticky at all or liquidy, compared to regular lip glosses. This has easily become my favorite lipstick/gloss." — Glossier
ABH's liquid lipstick is widely loved and for good reason. It's highly pigmented, giving you all-day color that makes a big impression. This is transfer-proof and stays on for hours.
Texture: Satin
Finish: Matte
What I Like: Non-transfer formula, highly pigmented
What I Don't: Some say the formula is dry and may flake
Customer review: "Absolutely love the color and formulation of these lipsticks! I did notice it felt a little dry after a couple hours wear and settled into my lip lines. However, I found that if it was applied on top of a lip mask, it didn't dry out or settle into my lips." — Nordstom
If I'm reaching for a comfortable liquid lipstick with a slightly velvety finish, this is the one I'll choose, no question. It doesn't dry out lips or make them feel tight—instead, it keeps lips hydrated and supple. It also never transfers to anything, even when I'm drinking hot coffee.
Texture: Velvet
Finish: Matte
What I Love: Non-drying, comfortable formula, good color payoff
What I Don't: Some don't like the whipped texture
Review for MC: "It is a true matte but it feels so soft on the lips. Not drying at all. Fades beautifully like you have brown liner on. No problem layering for reapplication." —Rare Beauty
Leave it to Rihanna to create a liquid lipstick that would stay on through pretty much everything. The finish is soft matte, so it still has a bit of creaminess once it dries, which helps ensure that lips look plush.
Texture: Creamy
Finish: Soft-matte
What I Love: High impact color, soft matte finish
What I Don't: Some find it more prone to transferring
Review for MC: "This red is stunning. When I wear it I feel better about myself. I forget my student loans. I forget that I haven't had a date in six months. With this lipstick, I believe I can fly. Does it last, smudge-free, through a burger? Not really, but I don't mind reapplying. It's a beautiful color, beautiful packaging, and it lasts pretty darn well for something that isn't necessarily a long-wear liquid lipstick." — Sephora
What makes this liquid lipstick from Nars unique is something called a color-diffusion complex, which immediately diffuses color for a softer finish. Think French-girl lips—effortless and not too defined.
Texture: Velvet
Finish: Creamy matte
What I Love: Soft finish, high-impact color
What I Don't: Some might not like the softer finish
Review for MC: "This product is very lightweight yet creamy and pigmented. It glides onto your lip in a smooth, silky way. You can’t even tell that you have lipstick on from how light it feels! It’s also buildable with the color. The scent is not too overbearing which is perfect if you’re not keen of heavily scented lip products." — Amazon
For $7, this liquid lipstick wears like something much more luxe. It's a soft matte finish, so it gives lips tons of dimension. The lightweight mousse formula doesn't dry out lips, but it also stays put from day to evening. And the price simply can't be beat.
Texture: Mousse
Finish: Soft-matte
What I Like: High-impact color, long-lasting
What I Don't: Some find it can be a bit drying
Review for MC: "I bought this with low expectations and was pleasantly surprised. It glides on nicely and feels weightless and doesn't leave my lips feeling dry." — Ulta
"Superstay" is perhaps the best way to describe this liquid lipstick. It's like a permanent marker for your lips—it stays put until you decide to take it off. It also comes in a wide shade range, so you'll be able to find the perfect color no matter what.
Texture: Whipped
Finish: Matte
What I Like: Non-transfer formula, high-impact color
What I Don't: Some find it a bit drying
Review for MC: "I am genuinely amazed by how long-lasting this liquid lipstick is. Once applied, it stays put for hours on end, surviving meals, drinks, and even long days without fading or smudging. It's the perfect choice for anyone seeking a lip color that can keep up with their busy lifestyle." — Amazon
With a doe-foot applicator, this liquid lipstick could not be easier to apply, even if you're not very good at applying a liquid formula. The formula is matte but also gives lips a more blurred-out appearance. Use your finger to quickly dab the edges for a softer effect that is perfectly imperfect.
Texture: Mousse
Finish: Matte
What I Like: Non-transfer formula, high-impact color
What I Don't: Some find the formula slightly drying
Review for MC: "I really love this whole product line. The texture is so smooth and lovely." — Ulta
This award-winning formula is beloved by makeup artists and beauty editors alike. It has both hydrating and long-wearing benefits, and each shade has concentrated pigments for rich depth of color. The velvet texture is also divine.
Texture: Velvet
Finish: Matte
What I Like: Non-transfer formula, non-drying, velvety texture, intense color payoff
What I Don't: Pricey
Customer review: "This is my third purchase from this collection and I’ve been so happy with all of them. It’s such a luxurious formula with a rich, and creamy texture. Definitely what I’ve come to expect from this luxury brand. This does transfer slightly onto cups but doesn’t rub off completely. I’m very pleased with how it wears through the day." —Nordstrom
This is my best friend's go-to liquid lipstick, and I always compliment her when she wears it. It looks so cushiony on lips, and the shades options feel like a haute couture wardrobe. Bonus? The pigment also doubles as a gorgeous liquid blush.
Texture: Creamy
Finish: Soft-matte
Pros: Exceptionally soft feel on the lips, color range, multi-purpose formula
Cons: Some don't feel it's long-lasting enough
Customer review: "I love this formula and color. It is creamy and moisturising. The shades are pigmented in an elegant, understated way. This shade just pops on darker skin. HOWEVER, I don’t think the formula works in every shade on darker skin tones as blush. For instance, this shade wouldn’t show at all on my cheeks, despite building the color. But as you can see, it pops on my lips." — Sephora
With vivid colors and a cloud-like, long-lasting finish, this formula is a must-have for any liquid lipstick lover. The pigment melts onto the lips and is so deliciously comfortable, you'll nearly forget you're wearing any lipstick at all.
Texture: Creamy
Finish: Matte
What I Like: Color range, comfortable texture, lasts all day, targeted applicator, smells great
What I Don't: Price
Review for MC: "Loved how smooth and velvety the finish was, with beautiful pigment to boot! Pleasant smell and the packaging was also gorgeous! It’s a 10/10 for me!" — Sephora
What to Look For in a Liquid Lipstick
Liquid lipsticks, like any makeup product, are entirely dependent on your personal preferences—especially when it comes to the finish. A good portion of the formulas on the market are a matte or demi-matte finish and are designed for extreme long-wear. That can be somewhat drying for people with dry skin, so look for formulas that offer additional hydrating benefits. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin are going to be your new best friend when you're shopping for a moisturizing liquid lipstick. However, with the right lip prep (I suggest using a lip mask for ten minutes and exfoliating your pout beforehand) the formula should wear comfortably and last from day to night with minimal touch ups.
Why Trust Marie Claire
For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion, and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.
]]>It’s easy to picture The Row and Miu Miu’s chestnut-colored leather totes slung over your shoulder for the foreseeable future, classic and versatile enough to never clash with an outfit or step outside the fashion zeitgeist. Streamlined travel was also top of mind for designers this season; Gucci and Louis Vuitton introduced packable duffel bags for your next weekend trip, while Victoria Beckham and Hermès showcased vanity cases that easily fit into a suitcase and can double as a sleek clutch for nights out when you need a spare lip gloss and a pack of gum.
For a better look at the top trending bags this fall, keep scrolling—and rest assured that whichever one you choose will deliver twice the style and practicality.
Brown Is the New Black
Brown bags aren't new, by any means. But what makes fall 2025's notable is that they're replacing the industry standard—and the go-to favorite of every fashion-savvy person on the move—black handbags. Crafted in softly brushed suede and gradient grosgrain leather, fall's brown top-handle totes and cross-body bags appeal to the more minimalist-minded who seek a change without needing to adopt an entirely new color palette.
Under Lock and Key
Fashion has been strapped into a belt bag trend for several seasons—see: L.L. Bean's belted Boat and Tote collab with Tibi and Prada's cinched Buckle bag. But fall 2025 introduces a new hardware-driven micro trend that's likely to be just as popular and widespread on the It bag scene: padlocks and matching keys, as seen on Chloé's reissued Paddington bags, a major icon of Y2K's boho bag era, and Louis Vuitton's leather and logoed shoulder bags.
Cold Blooded
As seen in the fall 2025 shoe trends, snakeskin becomes the top animal print for the season, replacing leopard spots after a year of dominance. Whether in a natural tone like slate gray or chocolate brown, or a more fashion-forward pale butter yellow, there's no wrong way to sport the reptile pattern in bags this fall.
A Weekend Away
Roomy yet stylish duffle bags are set to become more popular this fall—and they serve as the sign you've been waiting for to choose a weekend, pack your bags, and start exploring. The suede and leather embossed travel-ready weekender bags were perhaps the clearest example of fashion blending with function this season, as seen at Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Burberry, and beyond.
Puffed and Padded
A strong appreciation for craft techniques was evident in the Fall 2025 collections in the form of quilted handbags. Piped and puffy shoulder bags appeared in designs by Jil Sander and Fendi, while quirky crescent-shaped handbags from Balmain and Miu Miu showcased more graphic, unique, and puffed-up leather manipulations.
Toiletries to Go
Fall extends the jet-setting spirit of summer's bag trends with rectangular travel-friendly vanity cases that tuck into luggage. From Louis Vuitton's trunk-style designs to Victoria Beckham and Hermès' neat, snap-closure boxes, this unexpected bag trend offers a more functional take on the micro-mini bag trend without sacrificing viral, Instagram appeal.
MINI SKIRTS:
I tend to reserve these for vacation, weekends, or days I don’t have to commute to the office. Balance proportions with a chunkier shoe and an oversized T-shirt or button-down top.
MIDI SKIRTS:
I find these to be the most versatile. I can wear them over the next few weeks with flat sandals, then in the fall and winter with knee-high boots. Styling can admittedly be a bit trickier, but again, it’s all about balancing proportions. Go with a tighter top to offset the volume on the bottom.
WHITE SKIRTS:
Nothing says summer like an easy, breezy white skirt. And as we head into August, now’s the perfect time to wear one. Since my style isn’t quite boho babe, I’ll go high-contrast using black, silver, and gold to lend a tougher edge.
Reading List
First time reading Self Checkout? Catch up on the past few weeks.
My latest project was to predict which fall shoe trends will be everywhere in just a few weeks—and here, I share my findings from over 40 hours of footwear research (yes, I counted). You can expect the season's classic staples to reappear, like leather loafers with a nod to '90s prep and knee-high boots to help transition your summer Bermuda shorts and slip skirts into colder weather. Meanwhile, the suede sneaker trend, a key part of the retro sneaker movement that makes every pair look like it’s from a different era, will show up in earthy, autumnal shades.
But that's just a preview of the footwear styles about to take center stage. Keep scrolling to discover—and shop—an expert-curated selection of fall 2025 shoe trends set to take off.
Back-to-School Loafers
A leather loafer is a timeless, widely loved fall favorite for good reason. The 2025 season highlights what makes this preppy staple so great: it's a neutral silhouette that always looks polished. Pair them with a checked blazer and a matching mini skirt or that breezy white skirt you've been wearing all summer for an easy, versatile piece in your wardrobe.
Mary Janes
Oh, how I adore a simple, sweet, and strappy Mary Jane shoe. The silhouette is naturally girlish, but fall 2025's take on the style sticks to fine leather textiles and foolproof color palettes that keep its Mary Janes from feeling too juvenile. A classic black Mary Jane flat is a smart addition to a summer dress you're transitioning into fall.
Textured Sneakers
Among all the footwear styles that fashion explores, sneaker trends might be the hardest to keep up with. But in a sea of options, from slender to chunky, minimal to loud luxury, fall's top sneaker trend is any pair made from a must-touch texture. Think: rich suede, coarse pony hair, or faux animal hide—any material that adds more dimension than just sleek leather.
Pointed-Toe Shoes
They're ladylike, elegant without fail, and visually engaging—it's easy to see why the fashion world has adored pointed-toe shoes for decades. Based on the fall runways and street style, you can expect to see flats, pumps, and boots with sharp front tips walking alongside you in a few weeks. But if you, like me, don't want to wait until September, buy a pointed ballet flat or slingback heel to wear with breezy maxis and linen pants as summer winds down.
Western Boots
Thanks to the Fall 2025 collections from Schiaparelli, Louis Vuitton, Hermès, and Burberry—and Beyoncé's Cowboy Carter, of course—boots with bold western flair are coming soon. Narrow your choices by focusing on tall riding boots or knee-high styles with silver hardware ready to ride.
Snake Prints
If 2025 has taught me anything, it's that animal prints basically count as neutrals—they're a natural look, after all, and that feels close enough, right? Snakeskin takes the top spot this fall, replacing leopard and cheetah spots after a months-long reign, and will appear in grays, caramel, and dark mahogany textiles. In particular, I'm drawn to the idea of pairing a chocolate brown snakeskin pump, like Aeyde's, with black separates because I firmly believe that an unexpected color combination makes every outfit better.
Boho braids, for example, are box braids that usually have strands of curly or wavy human hair added to the outside of the braid to give the hair sort of an undone look, similar to goddess braids. As you could probably guess, said hair that's left out can easily tangle or start to look and feel dry just days after your hair appointment.
As a frequent protective style wearer, my go-to style this summer was boho braids, and I'm committed to making sure my hair can stay fresh and frizz-free for every bit of the six weeks I was recommended to keep them. To see what I'm doing to keep my boho braids in perfect shape, keep reading for my full product lineup.
Satin Is Your Best Friend
Something I've learned as an adult is that, when my mother made me go to sleep in a satin scarf or bonnet as a kid, she wasn't doing it for no reason. Silk or satin products like bonnets and pillowcases are some of the best ways you can avoid waking up to massive tangles, and they also aren't as harsh or drying on your hair as cotton.
I wear a silk bonnet to bed every night, but especially when my hair is in braids. You can buy one pretty much anywhere for a decent price, but just make sure it comes with an elastic band to keep it from sliding off as you sleep.
If you prefer longer, waist-length hairstyles, get a bonnet that's suitable for longer lengths and can fit all your braids into it without it looking or feeling too bulky. This one comes with a stretchy band that ties around the front so you can adjust it to be as tight or as loose as you want it to be.
Rinse and Repeat
Yes, shampooing your hair when it's in braids is a must, but I also love a good scalp rinse every now and again. These are just two of my favorites.
This scalp rinse has been one of my hair favorites ever since it was released. My scalp can get itchy and irritated from product buildup at times, so aside from this being able to gently break up that buildup, it's also incredibly soothing thanks to the formula’s rice and sake waters.
This also comes in handy whenever I need a quick rinse. The nozzle is really helpful for making sure I don't make a mess and only apply it to targeted areas, and it works quickly to soothe my scalp when it's itchy or irritated.
Tame the Tangles
Boho and goddess braids require a little extra care since the styles both feature loose hair woven into each braid. Here's what I keep on hand to make sure said hair doesn't end up tangled and matted.
I've tested a lot of detangling brushes, but this one is my favorite by far. Not only does it glide through my curls and kinks when my hair is in its natural state, it also works really well when I need to brush through my boho braids. It frees my hair of tangles without pulling or getting snagged on other braids.
This mousse works great for setting curls and other styles in place, but you can also use it to tame flyaways and frizz that may occur when you've had your boho braids in for at least a few weeks. Just add a generous amount and brush it in—no flakes or residue!
Keep Things Fresh
Any excess hair that's left out of your braids can dry out and end up frizzy if you're not careful. Any time my hair feels a little dry and I want to give it a quick moisture boost, I like to spritz it with a good curl refresher spray.
Some of the star ingredients of this light mist are coconut oil and shea butter, and it moisturizes and adds a touch of shine to your hair without making it super slick or greasy.
Another light spray that revives lived-in curls and waves with just a few spritzes, the ceramides in the formula also ensure that your hair won't frizz up or break off.
Edge Control
I don't always like to add edge control to my baby hairs, but when I do, I make sure I'm only using products that that hold well but aren't thick enough to potentially cause breakage on the thin areas of my hair.
This edge control from Pattern has never let me down. My edges are already very delicate, but this provides hold without being too heavy, and it also doesn't flake once it dries down.
I'm not kidding when I say I've had this applied to my edges before and they stayed in place for the next three days. And even though this product provides a really strong hold, my edges never feel sticky or gunky after it's applied.
Why Trust Marie Claire
For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion, and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.
]]>Crafted with multicolored glass baubles that resemble sugary confectionaries on a candy necklace, Khaite’s delectable leather sandal first appeared on the brand’s Spring 2025 runway. Since its debut, style connoisseurs everywhere have been craving the sweet shoe. Even in Marie Claire’s office, Khaite’s beaded sandals have become a hot topic in weekly meetings and casual conversations.
But here’s the thing: these luxe shoes cost a pretty penny. So, if you’re anything like me—a fashion enthusiast with expensive taste and a tight budget—you’ll be pleased to know that I’ve curated a selection of 13 beaded sandals under $350. From toe ring slip-ons to strappy heels, you can wear these shoes now and style them into early fall with transitional staples like chic cardigans and wide-leg jeans.
I recently wore Jeffrey Campbell’s Preciosa beaded sandals to a wedding, and I must say, these are among the most comfortable pairs of heels I own. Even while dancing the night away, I didn’t experience a single hint of discomfort.
De Siena’s sandals evoke nostalgic memories of making charm bracelets. Slip into these shoes for a youthful feel.
Staud is renowned for its beaded Tommy bag, but did you know the label also offers beaded sandals? Allow me to introduce you to the Gracie flats. These shoes come in a variety of designs, but I adore this set covered in carrots.
Embrace an edgy appeal while wearing these leather studded shoes. They’ll pair nicely alongside dark-wash jeans and a plain white T-shirt.
Look closely and you’ll notice that the tiny beads on Zara’s ankle strap sandals are designed in the shape of cute little lemons.
Crustacean fashion is making quite a splash this season. Dip your toe in the nautical-inspired trend with Larroudé’s lobster-adorned Nadia sandals.
If you haven’t yet heard, toe ring sandals are taking the fashion set by storm. Put your best foot forward while wearing Zara’s embellished version of the trend.
Not afraid of heights? Consider Farm Rio’s sky-high sandals which will cause heads to turn.
Kaanas’s slip-on style offers a touch of texture with a canvas upper and a wooden beaded trim.
When it comes to shoes, comfort is always my priority. That’s why I’ve added Steve Madden’s Boardwalk sandals to my shopping cart. These slides boast a cushioned footbed for ample support.
Next time you head out for a classy night on the town, don’t forget to anchor your going-out outfit in Badgley Mischka’s polished pearl heels.
Plastered with vibrant beads and shimmering crystals, Aldo’s crafty sandals embody a DIY feel that I can’t seem to resist.
Back in January, Pinterest predicted that cherry red would become one the most viral color trends of 2025. Months later, this fashion forecast still rings true. Sample the juicy shade with Steve Madden’s Ramos sandals.
It's not that fall's shoe trends are all checked plaid and pumpkin-orange suede. Instead, the silhouettes evoke the season on a deep, almost subconscious level. Calvin Klein and Dries Van Noten's lace-up derby loafers and charming Mary Jane shoes will bring back childhood memories of back-to-school shoe shopping at the mall with your mom. The leather knee-high boots at Burberry and Hermès seem to belong in a barn or stable, jumping into a crunchy leaf pile, or on a meandering walk outside just to enjoy the chill in the air.
That said, you can definitely start shopping fall's transitional shoe trends now. Not only will having a riding boot ready give you an edge come September 22, but it can also be a shoe-shaped beacon at the end of the tunnel—summer's relentless heat waves will pass, and cool, crisp days are on the horizon.
Back to School
A proper list of fall shoe trends always includes a style linked to academia. But for the 2025 season in particular, designers incorporated nearly every style imaginable to evoke a collegiate and prepster vibe. Miu Miu showcased a penny leather loafer paired with knee-high socks reminiscent of the combination often seen in school uniforms. Bally featured a moss green and oxblood brogue heel, while The Row used its signature shoe magic on a simple block-heeled Mary Jane.
Frankensneaks
It started with ballet sneakers wrapped in crisscrossing pink ribbons and featuring pointe-like toe boxes. Then came the strappy Mary Jane sneakers, and according to the Lyst Q2 2025 report, a revival of Isabel Marant's polarizing 2010s sneaker wedge. Now, designers are playing Dr. Frankenstein and creating all kinds of hybrid combinations. At Miu Miu, there were buckled black and brown sneakers that resembled loafers, while Lacoste showed a three-inch cleat that wouldn't quite work on the field.
Serpentine
After leopard spots dominated the scene for months, exotic snakeskin now takes center stage for fall. From thigh-high boots in slate gray faux skins (Tod's and Khaite) to T-strap pumps in an orange-y corn snake shade (Marni), fall 2025 showcases reptilian prints in a variety of forms. The luxurious fabric, reminiscent of cold-blooded reptiles, fits perfectly for the colder-weather season.
Sweet Satin
Romance is in the air for fall 2025, with the rise of ladylike sets, Victorian-era flounce and frills, and plenty of satin shoes. Ferragamo incorporated the shiny textile into its iconic wedge sandal, while Chanel added its signature cap-toe detail. Plus, delicate satin isn't a fabric you'd want to get wet, making it tricky to wear in summer (sweat), spring (rain), and winter (snow). However, it works beautifully during fall's crisp, dry weather.
An Equestrian Kick
Who's ready to ride? An equestrian influence has taken over the industry—see the timeless barn jacket trend for proof—and fall 2025 accelerates this with a distinct Western twist. Burberry's flat-soled riding boots, Louis Vuitton's steel-tipped ankle boots, and Schiaparelli's suede mid-calf styles—call it the Cowboy Carter effect because designers are very much in a giddy-up mood.
Get the Point?
The classic pointed toe isn’t going anywhere, but this season’s iterations feel more pronounced—elongated, sculptural, and undeniably a statement-making stiletto heel. At Saint Laurent, Prada, and Gucci, the effects are striking enough to feel dangerous—if you don’t know how to wear them.
Peep Show
Designers sliced, carved, and chunked out their fall footwear, giving a new twist to spring's peep-toe shoe trend. Some styles were more avant-garde—Prada cut off the first few inches of its penny loafers—while others were more wearable for daily life, like Fendi's charming cutout mules and Miu Miu's strappy slingback heels.
I've curated a lineup of my go-to beauty staples that help me look like my best self in a matter of minutes. From Chanel's glow-enhancing essentials to Saie's cult-favorite illuminator, each product is thoughtfully designed to enhance my natural features, not mask them. When it feels like it's a million degrees outside, I like to keep it simple: sheer coverage with SPF that lets my skin breathe, a bronzer that gives me a sun-kissed flush, a quick eyelash curl and swipe of waterproof mascara, and a glossy pink lip to flawlessly bring everything together. It's quick, effective, and gives me the effortless glow I want every single time. Keep reading to discover the tried-and-true staples I reach for when I need to look and feel put-together in just five minutes.
The ultimate multitasking product, this glow-boosting mist refreshes, protects, and restores, leaving your skin dewy, radiant, and revived from morning until night. It's ideal for on-the-go touch-ups that instantly revive your complexion.
Even on no-makeup days, I love dabbing this onto the high points of my face for a natural, lit-from-within glow.
In the summer, I trade my foundation for a lightweight skin tint with SPF. This one evens out my complexion while letting my skin breathe.
There's a reason why this concealer is award-winning. Its buildable coverage and blend of skincare-packed ingredients leave my under-eyes looking fresh, bright, and well-rested.
Summer calls for sun-kissed skin, and this fan-favorite bronzing cream delivers. The velvety, blendable formula melts seamlessly into the skin for a natural warmth—no sun required. Bonus: You can blend it onto your shoulders and collarbone to extend the glow beyond your face.
This cream blush really does melt into the skin like butter, leaving a beautiful natural flush, as if you've just spent a few hours in the sun.
When I set my under-eyes with this powder, I know my concealer isn't going anywhere all day.
Even when I'm in a rush, I like adding a little dimension or a quick wing to my eyes. It instantly makes me feel and look more put-together. I'm all about versatile products, and this palette's four shades make it easy to create endless looks for both day and night.
I've tried pretty much every eyelash curler on the market (both drugstore picks and high-end favorites), but I always find myself coming back to this one.
Waterproof mascara is a summer essential. It holds a curl all day and stays put through heat, humidity, and whatever else the day may bring.
This is my definition of the perfect lip product: a two-in-one liquid lipstick and gloss that combines long-lasting color with a high-shine finish. What more could you ask for?
Glossy lips add the prettiest finishing touch to any makeup look, and this balm is my absolute favorite. It delivers a sheer, radiant tint while keeping your lips soft and nourished.
I've officially retired my drugstore deodorant for this one. It feels incredibly luxe, and the scent is so good it could easily pass as perfume.
The final step in my five-minute beauty routine is always a quick spritz of a fragrance I love. This one is light and fresh with hints of raspberry and rose that instantly lift my mood. It's soft, feminine, and effortlessly elegant.
This is my go-to perfume when I want to feel good and confident with minimal effort. It's a fresh blend of soft florals, a hint of citrus, and a warm, subtly sensual finish. It's light enough for daytime yet bold enough to turn some heads.
The quirky style can be traced back to Staud’s bedazzled Tommy bag, which first appeared in 2019. Fast forward to 2025, and many other brands have jumped on the beaded bag trend. Zara offers a multi-colored sequined purse guaranteed to lift any night-out look. Mango’s embroidered tote is edged with beaded fringe for added texture. And if you’re looking for a luxe designer bag, check out Loewe’s raffia crossbody made with delicate daisies.
In a sea of beach-ready jute carryalls and bohemian suede totes, beaded options stand out among summer 2025’s bag trends. However, they aren't just for warm-weather events. As we move into autumn, you’ll find that a beaded bag can instantly elevate your fall wardrobe, from blazers and barrel jeans to sweaters and slip skirts.
So, add a playful touch to your transitional wardrobe with 14 beaded bags that you can wear now through Labor Day. And for the minimalists out there, don’t worry. I’ve included several neutral-toned options that will help you ease into this statement-making style.
Beloved by celebrities like Kendall Jenner and Gigi Hadid, Staud’s Tommy bag has become a highly coveted staple. This sardine version will inspire dreams of sun-drenched moments by the shoreline.
Not in the mood to splurge on a four-digit purchase? Snag Zara’s beaded bag for $32.
Mango’s rhinestone bag is beyond roomy, so it’ll fit all your on-the-go essentials.
There’s nothing wrong with a simple black purse for a night out. However, if you want to add some variety, consider this sparkling accessory from Zara.
With hand-beaded striped detailing and a faux leather trim, this bag embodies a polished appeal.
If you’re a minimalist who loves simple designs, consider Cult Gaia’s Hera Nano bag in a neutral color.
Adorned with bright red cherries and a pink Cosmopolitan, this shoulder bag from Anthropologie is charmingly playful.
Small drawstring pouches are gaining popularity this season, so try the trend with Mango’s fringed bag.
This youthful style will make you want to play into fashion’s girlhood aesthetic.
Olga Berg’s sleek beaded bag complements almost any outfit. For a casual style, pair this accessory with a white T-shirt, straight-leg jeans, and ballet flats.
There’s an early 2000s craze taking over the fashion scene, and Dolce Vita’s beaded jelly bag is proof.
Treat yourself to an investment-worthy beaded bag that will last for many seasons—and thank Loewe later.
I’m carrying the tomato-girl-summer aesthetic into fall with Staud’s Tommy bag. I can’t wait to pair this piece with cozy cashmere sweaters and floor-sweeping denim skirts.
Layered with gemstones, Clio Peppiatt’s satin ruby bag is a striking work of art.
For hot autumn days spent in the office, I’ll wear a sleeveless shirt dress paired with mesh ballet flats. And when temperatures cool in the evening, I’ll cover my shoulders with a sleek blazer suitable for after-work happy hours. Meanwhile, for casual outings like pumpkin patch trips and farmers' market visits, a smocked dress works well with knee-high boots and a denim jacket.
Bottom line? There are countless ways to style a summer dress for fall. So, go ahead and keep scrolling to see every dress I’ll be wearing—and layering—this upcoming season. From beloved favorites that I already own to must-have pieces high on my wish list, I promise these items will hold your transitional outfits together.
Dive into the polka dot trend with Mango’s collared shirt dress. Wear this style to work and look forward to charming compliments from your coworkers.
If you’re interested in which color trends are expected to become popular this fall, let me guide you to chocolate brown. Featured on the Fall 2025 runways of Ferragamo, Gucci, and Hermès, this charming shade will soon be in your wardrobe.
For a sophisticated vibe, slip into Aritzia’s midi dress made from luxurious satin. Be sure to finish your look with kitten heels.
Gingham dresses have become a staple in my wardrobe this season. When temperatures drop, I plan to wear Veronica Beard’s Mackey dress with a classic trench coat and slingbacks.
Yes, you can wear white dresses after Labor Day. Just style this look with cold-weather trends like suede jackets and riding boots.
Florals for fall? It’s actually not that groundbreaking. Dôen makes the classic print feel more autumn-forward with earthy tones.
What I love most about Madewell’s crochet dress is its contrasting design that adds a touch of drama. Consider this piece if you’re not afraid to stand out from the crowd.
Channel your inner Jackie O with this mod dress from Reformation that exudes "retro' style.
As a fan of ‘90s fashion, I love a satin slip dress more than anything. Katie May's version showcases a sleek champagne hue that's so refined.
If you know me well, you’ve probably seen me in Rails’s Genevieve dress. What can I say? It's incredibly versatile! I can’t wait to keep wearing this look for many more brunches and date nights.
When temperatures rise above 80 degrees, you’ll want to wear J.Crew’s tiered maxi dress. It’s made from cotton, so you’ll stay comfortable and cool.
Right now, Everlane is holding a big sale. This dress just dropped from $158 to $87. So, if you like it, act quickly!
A.L.C’s Angelina dress will turn heads with its plunging V-neckline and flowing smocked bodice.
Whimsical bubble hemlines aren’t going anywhere. Try the trend with All the Ways’s Aria dress, which looks sophisticated layered under a cozy cardigan.
If you want to avoid spending a lot on your next dress, try Free Assembly’s eyelet midi. Priced under $40, this style is affordable.
Although I've grown to love a neutral nail like Rihanna and Khloe Kardashian, this summer I'm making up for lost time with every spin, twist and modern take on the classic French manicure from flaunting pops of pastel and neon to experimenting with polka dots à la Dua Lipa and Kylie Jenner. I've learned that anything can be transformed into a French manicure if you try hard enough.
"Polka dots are having a moment again and combining them with a French mani just makes it feel playful and fresh," says ORLY's celebrity manicurist Queenie Nguyen.
Ahead, the experts share what spins on the French manicure are trending this summer and how to nail each look.
Chrome French
All of the experts unanimously agree that chrome nails are always in, and it's the perfect way to remix a French manicure. There are a few ways to execute this trend. "The glazed look is here to stay, and doing it just on the tips keeps it clean but still gives that cool, reflective vibe with various colored chromes of choice," says Nguyen. "You can also use a white chrome powder as a topper over colored French tips for that fun glazed nail look over the whole nail." For those who don't want an entire chrome nail, Thea Green, founder of Nails.INC, suggests going for chrome tips to add a modern, sleek twist to the classic French.
Ombré French
While the colored tip is well-defined on a classic French, an ombré French manicure blurs those lines (pun intended) for more gradient look that can easily become a canvas for more intricate nail art, and celebrity nail artist Elle Gerstein agrees. "You can do this with color, make it a twist of a modern French or do a cat’s eye," she says. "It’s a great playground for nail art to join."
Neon French
It wouldn't be summer without a splash of neon on the nails. "This one’s a no-brainer for summer," says Nguyen. "Bright neon tips just scream vacation. It’s such a fun twist on the classic French, and it instantly makes your nails feel fresh and bold." She recommends pairing the neon with a nude to "really let the neon color French tips pop."
Mother of Pearl French
At its core, a French manicure is a sophisticated, classic design. This summer twist on the trend is for the person who wants a little bit of change but not too much when it come to veering from the classic French manicure aesthetic. A pearl swipe across the tip of the nail is the ideal compromise. "This is very subtle and instead of using such a stark white, it’s mother of pearl," says Gerstein. "It’s an elevated version of the classic French."
Colorful French
Adding a pop of color whether it's a bold hue or a soft pastel is totally in for summer French manicure trends. An easy way to master this fun look is with a manicure maker pen. "People love that it feels creative but still polished," says Thea. "It’s the perfect mix of the personal and playful, and because you can do it yourself, it’s super easy to change up depending on your mood or outfit."
Polka Dot French
Dua Lipa and Kylie Jenner are all about having fun with polka dots this summer. "You can do random dots cascading from the free edge towards the base or keep it uniform around the edge where the French line typically goes—either way, it’s eye-catching without being over the top," says Nguyen. Another plus is that you can go with a classic white and black polka dot combination or switch it up with any base or dot color.
Textured French
Adding an extra dimension to nails through texture is making its way to French manicures this summer, but it's also a trend that Gerstein believes will spill over into fall as well. This can be accomplished with a variety of patterns and designs. "Whether it’s tweed or another texture design, the texture gives it an eye catching look that someone would want because it’s unusual," she explains. "It’s a way to make polish not as flat."
Reverse French
Green and Gerstein are both seeing reverse French manicures all over this summer. "It’s subtle but such a cool twist," says Green. "People are looking for ways to keep their nails fun but still pulled together. Colorful and reverse French styles give you that pop without needing a full design—they’re bold, a little unexpected, and easy to pull off at home." Gerstein adds, "embracing an old Hollywood style that’s been modernized by the colors—the design is still the classic."
Floral French
Floral designs are fun even after spring has come and gone, and they can even be used as an ode to the French manicure. For this take intricate floral designs painted on can work as well as nail stickers. "Florals on tips are such a cute way to dress up a French mani," says Nguyen. "You can keep it super simple with a few dotted flowers or go full mini garden party. It’s giving throwback Y2K party."
Micro French
The thing about French manicures is that they can be changed up based on how thick you choose to create the line across the tip of the nails. Recently micro lines have been trending which create a look that is still distinctly a French manicure, but more updated that the traditional looks that dominated the '90s. Like its pedicure counter part, the micro French manicure features a thin line across the tip of the nail, and work well for those with shorter nails. "To achieve this look it’s a real simple detail that’s not too much," says Gerstein. "You can use neon, pastel or metallic accents and keep it fun and light."
Abstract French
Although French manicures are known for their clean cut lines, this take is for anyone who wants to color outside of the lines when it comes to the traditional French manicure. "This is for when you want to switch it up from the super clean lines of a traditional French," says Nguyen. "Think destructed tips, wavy shapes, or color blocking—it’s basically French with personality. It’s a little artsy, a little chaotic (in a good way), and super fun for summer."
Rainbow French
Why settle for one pop of color when it you can taste the rainbow? "This is such a fun, playful twist on the classic," says Green. "Each nail gets a different colored tip, whether it’s bold brights or soft pastels and it instantly lifts your mood. People want nails that feel joyful and a little less serious right now. The Rainbow French is expressive but still really chic, and it’s a simple way to show off your style without needing a full salon visit."
Outlined French
An outlined French manicure veers away from the fully filled in thick or thin line that you're used to seeing. Instead, it incorporates an outline of the tip in various ways. Gerstein explains, "a French outline uses the outline of the design." She continues, "you’re not painting the entire nail, you’re using the French manicure [aesthetic] to design the look, whether that’s with flowers or another element [like gems]. It’s a modern twist without it having to be the stark white."
Reverse Negative Space French
The reverse negative space French manicure is a blend of two different trends. As its name suggests it incorporates the reverse trend where the base of the nail is the eye-catching element. It also borrows from the above outlined French manicure trend leaving negative space at the base of the nail this time instead of completely filling it in. Try a vivid red shade for a luxurious mani moment.
Split Color French Tip
Design lovers rejoice. This French manicure trend is what you've been waiting for. The split French manicure trend or the "half and half" is exactly what you're expecting it to be. Instead of having the tip of the nail swiped with one solid color, half of the nail tip is one color while the other half is a different one. "This a fun way to catch the eye. It’s great for graphic design lovers. It’s almost like having two different sets of nails," says Gerstein.
Why Trust Marie Claire
For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.
MEET THE EXPERTS
Bronzing drops are less about covering up and more about enhancing your skin's natural radiance with a healthy glow—think skincare meets tint, with flexible application and customizable color payoff. "It's like your serum and bronzer had a very efficient baby," says board-certified dermatologist Mona Gohara, MD, who notes that many formulas are now packed with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide to hydrate and soothe while giving skin a glowy tint.
And unlike powders or creams, bronzing drops play well with pretty much everything in your routine. "You can mix them with your skincare, foundation, or apply them on their own," says makeup artist Vincent Ford. "They tend to blend more easily than a powder or cream bronzer," he adds, which means fewer harsh lines and more natural-looking warmth that melts into your skin.
Ahead, we rounded up the very best bronzing drops for every skin tone, finish preference, and formula need so you can skip the sun and still look like you're glowing.
Best Bronzing Drops
- Best Overall Bronzing Drops: Drunk Elephant D-Bronzi Bronzing Drops
- Best Bronzing Drops for All Skin Tones: E.l.f. Cosmetics Bronzing Drops
- Best Skincare-Infused Bronzing Drops: Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Hue Drops Serum
- Best Highlighting Bronzing Drops: Live Tinted Hueglow Liquid Highlighter Drops
- Best Matte Bronzing Drops: Westman Atelier Sun Tone Bronzing Drops
Drunk Elephant's D-Bronzi is the product that put bronzing drops on the map. You've likely seen it mixed with the brand's Protini moisturizer—thanks to that clever palette-style packaging—but it's more than just an innovative design. The formula itself is light as air, blending seamlessly into skincare or makeup, and leaves behind a radiant glow, not a sparkly one. Plus, it's loaded with peptides and barrier-supporting ingredients to really amp up that radiance.
Key Ingredients: Grape seed extract, green tea extract, vitamin E (protects with antioxidants); Hyaluronic acid, glycerin (hydrates); Linoleic acid (prevents transepidermal water loss)
Finish: Glowing
Shades: 1
What I Love: Made to suit all skin tones; Peptide- and antioxidant-packed
What I Don't: May not show up under foundation, particularly well
Review for MC: "These drops brought a lot of life and color to my face without any fuss. The application was super easy—I worked the product into a brush and built it up on my skin. It's also great for body—I used it to cover tan lines on my chest and make my shoulders glow." — Katie Buckleitner, Senior Designer
This $12 bronzer might be budget-friendly, but it delivers like a luxury pick. It's made with hydrating glycerin to draw moisture in, sunflower seed oil to help seal it in, and vitamin E for an antioxidant boost, making it an MVP in your beauty lineup. But the real standout? Most bronzing drops don't offer multiple undertones, but Ford's a fan of E.l.f.'s for exactly that reason. "Choosing a shade that complements your undertone makes the finish much more flattering," he says.
Key Ingredients: Glycerin (hydrates); Sunflower seed oil (moisturizes); Vitamin E (soothes and protects with antioxidants)
Finish: Shimmer
Shades: 3
What I Love: Undertones for each skin tone; Most affordable option on this list
What I Don't: Can be patchy on dry skin, testers note
Review for MC: "Confession: I've never tried bronzing drops and had no idea how to use these. Thankfully, E.l.f. couldn't have made a more dummy-proof formula. You simply add a couple of drops to your moisturizer (I used Bobbi Brown's Face Base), mix it up, and apply all over. I was shocked by the glow, only a tad bit gave me—it looked like I had just hopped off a plane from a week-long trip in Mexico. It's safe to say I'm a fan of bronzing drops now." — Brooke Knappenberger, Associate Commerce Editor
Think of this next pick as your skin's new best friend. It gives an instant bronzy glow thanks to its subtle shimmer, while hyaluronic acid helps plump and hydrate, and niacinamide works behind the scenes to even out tone over time. You can smooth it all over your face for a natural warmth that makes skipping makeup an easy option.
Key Ingredients: Niacinamide (evens skin tone and soothes); Centella asiatica (soothes and diminishes redness); Hyaluronic acid (plumps and hydrates)
Finish: Shimmer
Shades: 2
What I Love: Can totally replace your go-to serum; Comes in a rosy undertone and a bronze undertone; Brightens skin over time
What I Don't: A little goes a long way, so you can easily overdo the bronze
Review for MC: "I've been wearing this bronzer in lieu of a foundation this summer. I layer it underneath my concealer because it blurs my skin and makes it look more even (and just a little glowy). It works just as well blended in with my foundation or tinted moisturizer on days when I need a boost of glow. It doesn't break me out, and doesn't look glittery. It's not completely sweatproof, but it doesn't look patchy or uneven as it fades. I plan on wearing it well into the fall and winter once my summer tan fades." — Julia Marzovilla, Commerce Editor
One of the most underrated glow products out there is this highlighter-bronzer hybrid from Live Tinted. It works just as well on the body as it does on the face, and never looks chunky or glittery. Instead, it uses micro-fine pearlescent pigments to deliver a soft, radiant sheen. The four undertones—bronze, opal, rose, and gold—add just the right touch of warmth while subtly catching the light on all the highpoints.
Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid (hydrates); Squalane (moisturizes)
Finish: Pearlescent
Shades: 4
What I Love: Never leaves an orange tint; Works well for all skin types; The most dewy-looking glow
What I Don't: Testers note that the bottle will get super sticky with use
Review for MC: "I gotta say, these bronzing drops totally surprised me. At first, I wasn't sure if it would look too disco-like, but it leaves a stunning, natural-looking glow. It also goes on super smooth and never oxidizes throughout the day. I wear it on my collarbones for an extra pop. " — Rebecca Boulware
Most bronzing drops leave a shimmer or pearlescent finish, which isn't always ideal for those with oily skin or anyone who wants color sans the shine. Westman Atelier solves that problem with its matte formula that delivers the warmth of a bronzer without the glow of a highlighter. The coverage is light enough to let your natural skin peek through, but it still evens out your complexion, giving you that fresh, just-back-from-vacation look.
Key Ingredients: Vitamin E (soothes and protects with antioxidants); Glycerin (hydrates and pulls moisture in)
Finish: Matte
Shades: 4
What I Love: Lightweight formula that feels like nothing on the face; Great inclusive shade range; Buildable and never streaks or cakes up
What I Don't: Oftentimes sold out due to popularity
Customer Review: "This is a fab product in a super-cute and portable package. I personally like to add a couple of drops to my moisturizer and then add more to the areas I want to contour. It’s super lightweight and feels pure luxe on the skin. It has a matte finish which looks very natural, and if you want to dial up the glow, you can just add a highlighter as a finishing step." — Sephora
If you're after all the shimmer and glow, check out Armani Beauty's Fluid Sheer. While it comes in exclusively highlight and blush shades, the bronzing options stand out. There are two: a true bronze called "Golden Bronze" and a shade that blends blush and bronzer, aptly named "Bronze Blush." Applied to the high points of your cheeks, it instantly adds warmth and color while illuminating the skin—the sheer but noticeable pigmentation layers effortlessly with other products for a super natural finish.
Key Ingredients: Mica (shimmer); Glycerin (hydration)
Finish: Shimmer
Shades: 5
What I Love: Can be built up super seamlessly; "Bronze Blush" brings warmth and color; Can be mixed with skincare too
What I Don't: There's not much product in each tube
Customer Review: "My skin tone is very tan, but my face stays way lighter in comparison bc I’m an outdoors person, but do all I can to hide my face from the sun!!! I hate self-tan. This is the best way to bring a natural tan with just a glow and no coverage. I wear this every day after skincare, and I’m obsessed. I don’t even need to wear any other makeup." — Sephora
While some people want a face bronzer that can wash off at the end of the day, others prefer something longer-lasting, and that's where self-tanning drops come in. It might sound intimidating to use a tanner on your face, but this formula is basically foolproof thanks to its two shade options and customizable drop count. As long as you follow the suggested amount, you won't wake up looking orange or overdone. The result is a subtle, natural-looking glow that's way less intense than typical body self-tanners.
Key Ingredients: Vitamin E (soothes and protects with antioxidants); Aloe vera (soothes and hydrates)
Finish: Radiant
Shades: 2
What I Love: Two shade options; Can customize the amount of drops; Contains skin-soothing ingredients that make the formulation gentler
What I Don't: One of the higher-priced tanning drop formulas
Customer Review: "Love this product! Beautiful formula which leaves me with a natural tan. I’ve tried many different tanners, but this one is by far the best and looks most like a real and natural tan. I’m pale, but I use the darkest shade because the lighter one leaves a more orangey tone. Highly recommend!" — Sephora
As we age, our skin can start to look dull and dehydrated due to sun exposure and a decline in collagen and elasticity. That's where bronzing drops with a radiant finish and hydrating ingredients come in—they help bring life and glow back to the skin. This formula from Trinny London is packed with micro-fine pearlescent pigments that won't settle into fine lines or wrinkles. Instead, it adds a subtle luminosity that lifts and brightens the face when applied to the high points.
Key Ingredients: Sweet almond oil, avocado oil, argan oil, jojoba oil (prevents transepidermal water loss)
Finish: Radiant
Shades: 4
What I Love: Won't settle into fine lines or accentuate wrinkles; Filled with emollients that seal in moisture; Gives skin a "fresh" look
What I Don't: Contains fragrance, which may be irritating for sensitive skin types
Customer Review: "Gorgeous shimmer, without too much shine on my mature skin. No irritation anywhere, including around eye area. Works beautifully with my BFF Cream. Love it! Just reordered!" — Trinny London
How Do I Apply Bronzing Drops?
One of the best parts about bronzing drops is their customization. According to Ford, his go-to method is to mix a few drops into a moisturizer. He says this technique gives a soft, sun-kissed effect that looks more natural. "I also like to mix it into a serum or facial oil for even more glow and hydration," he adds. If you want more coverage, Ford recommends mixing the drops directly into foundation, which he says "gives a really seamless bronzed finish."
On days when you're skipping makeup entirely, you can even mix bronzing drops into your skincare. While you can also apply them directly to the skin, Ford prefers to blend them into something else so the color diffuses more evenly. One crucial tip: skip mixing bronzing drops with SPF, as Ford emphasizes that doing so can compromise the effectiveness of the sunscreen. Instead, use two-finger lengths of SPF before the bronzing drops.
What to Look for in Bronzing Drops
- Skin Type
The first thing to consider is your skin type. Dr. Gohara advises that if your skin is dry, look for hydrating ingredients like glycerin or hyaluronic acid to keep it plump and dewy. Oily or acne-prone? Stick with oil-free formulas that have a matte finish to avoid extra shine. And because some bronzing drops can oxidize or turn orange after a few hours, Dr. Gohara recommends testing a drop on your wrist first.
- Undertone
Both experts agree that matching your undertone is key. Ford notes that while bronzing drops can work on every skin tone, "not every brand makes shades for every skin tone." For medium to deep complexions, especially, he says it's essential to find a formula that doesn't appear too light or gray. He says to reach for drops that offer a variety of undertones for the most complementary finish. (Look to E.l.f's Bronzing Drops for a good option.)
- Ingredients
Many of today's formulas do more than just tint; they also treat your skin. Dr. Gohara recommends ingredients like humectants and skin-smoothers for a double-duty action. "Hyaluronic acid hydrates, plumping the skin for a dewy finish, while niacinamide helps even tone and soothes inflammation." So, instead of layering serum and bronzer separately, you get a glow and boost in one step.
How We Tested
Marie Claire is an authority on beauty, having written numerous stories about must-have makeup and skincare formulas, including the best tinted sunscreens and the best eyebrow gels, among others. The products on this list have all been tried and tested by one of our editors or hand-picked by beauty writers after extensive testing over several weeks.
While the best bronzing drops for you will vary based on personal preference, you truly can't go wrong with one of the items on this list.
Why Trust Marie Claire?
For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion, and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.
Meet the Experts
]]>
If I had to name one fashion brand our office has been excited about this summer, it would be J.Crew. The slip skirts, lace-trimmed tops, crochet midi dresses, and now, an exciting new collaboration with French brand Rouje, have cemented its place at the top of our late-summer shopping wish lists. Here are just a few of my personal favorite pieces right now.
Charm jewelry has taken over every other accessory trend this season, so it's officially Pandora's time to shine. This iconic brand has been a staple in editors' collections for years, and this year, we're loving its aquatic-inspired charms, which fit into the fish motif trend. Each of these items has that hand-crafted charm (no pun intended) but with a long-lasting, luxurious feel.
To round out my shopping excursion, I'm picking up a few buzzy beauty products from Walmart. Included are trending lip stains, a butter-yellow nail polish, and the product saving my hair post-beach vacation. This retailer is my not-so-hidden gem for scoring items like these at a great price.
Every season, like clockwork, micro-trends flood our feeds and the streets of the most stylish cities. This summer, from sequin tops to paracord bracelets, the trends are way too abundant to keep track of. I'm all for expressing your style, but consider this your permission to be uninfluenced. Especially if you're jetting off on vacation, that hyper-specific micro-trend that's viral when you take off could be deemed "out" by the time you reach your destination. The solution? Investing in timeless staples for vacation. Instead of trend-driven pieces, go for styles that transcend the TikTok trend cycle. Flats, linen basics, and minimalist, ocean-inspired jewelry are just some of the chic beach-ready staples you'll want to wear for summers to come. (Plus, packing fewer items allows more room in your suitcase for the pieces you buy on your trip.) Keep reading to see which micro-trends we're ditching for our summer vacations and the quiet luxury pieces we're packing instead.
Ditch: Clog Heels
Pack: Chic Low-Heeled Shoes
Whether you'll be gallivanting around cobblestone streets, exploring museums, or walking in nature, you'll want to pack a pair of fashion person–approved sneakers for your trip.
Oh my! These statement-making ballerina flats just moved to the top of my wish list.
Yes, flip-flops can be sophisticated. This pair is begging to be worn with an airy white dress.
Dainty white ruffles add a feminine touch to a classic pair of Sambas.
A low heel and Italian leather really elevate these flip-flop sandals.
Modernize your Mary Janes with chantilly mesh and a pointed toe.
Ultra-chic and easy to walk in.
Ditch: Sequin Tops
Pack: Pretty Camis and Tank Tops
Meet your new summer staple. Wear this classy top everywhere from brunch to happy hour.
Butter yellow is the sunny hue you'll want to wear every day. It's so versatile.
Layer this buttery-soft cami with a blouse, or wear it on its own.
Fashion people love Esmé tanks.
Baby blue is my new favorite pastel.
How precious is this pointelle tank? It comes in seven colors.
I'm fawning over these ruffles.
No one would guess this ultra-sophisticated vest top is actually made from super-soft fabric.
Ditch: Bandage Dresses
Pack: Midi Dresses
Navy is the new black.
An easy tank dress is a must-have for summer. This one is even comfortable enough to wear on a plane.
The halter tie, the buttermilk hue, the sweetheart neckline—this dress is everything.
I think this is one of the most gorgeous and flattering dresses I've ever laid eyes on.
Milkmaid dresses may have been a "trend," but they're actually so timeless.
Aptly named the Nantucket Dress, this pinstripe number will be your go-to for any coastal vacation.
So effortlessly chic.
Ditch: Bermuda Shorts
Pack: Linen and Silk Bottoms
Pair these trousers with all of your summer tanks.
You'll reach for these retro-inspired gingham shorts every summer.
A breezy linen skirt is a staple item that every closet needs.
Too hot for trousers? Opt for trouser shorts to look put-together and stay cool.
Countless editors are obsessed with this skirt, myself included. I want it in every color.
The easiest, most versatle pair of pants you'll ever own.
Lace detailing adds some luxe flair to your basic black shorts.
Ditch: Paracord Jewelry
Pack: Ocean-Inspired Accessories
This necklace is simple, but it makes a statement.
Halo pearl earrings whisper quiet luxury.
This glistening pearl necklace will elevate any outfit.
I've had my Cape Cod bracelet for years and never take it off. It goes with everything.
Shell earrings are seasonal yet ultra classy.
An anklet adds the perfect summery touch to any outfit.
Shop More Summer Favorites
Crochet instantly becomes more wearable when it's in a chocolate-brown hue.
Why not splash out on a luxury beach bag?
Your perfect one-and-done outfit.
Protect your face from the sun in a denim cap.
A blouse is the chicest beach cover-up.
The only handbag you need to pack.
I love this milk-chocolate hue.
Wear this on the plane, and you'll instantly get a first-class upgrade.
The boat neckline and scoop back upgrade this white tank.
Sleek, versatile, and comfortable, these are the ultimate sneaker for summer.
This roomy carry-on fits all your essentials.
Tennis skirts are effortlessly classy and comfortable. This one will help keep you cool on hot days.
I love the slim fit of the Tokyo style.
For those true fall days.
Bored of your typical trousers? Swap them out for these.
I'd style this on work-from-home days with a pair of satin drawstring pants.
The textured material of these is perfect.
How chic would these look with a sheer long-sleeve and some heels for a night out?
The brown!
The slim-fitting silhouette of this cardigan will be everywhere come fall.
I need a new white sneaker and these are calling my name.
I know September will be hot, so this airy jersey will come in handy.
This will be the most coveted shoe of fall.
I'm in need of a fresh pair of black leggings.
Might as well get the matching sports bra.
Farm x Adidas is such a fun match.
The dad sneaker strikes again.
I'd style this with a long skirt and flats.
In an effort to stay present, this newsletter is pulling double duty. I’m offering up four fall trends you can wear right now and throughout the next handful of months.
STRAIGHT-LEG JEANS:
Word has it that jean silhouettes are going slimmer for fall. I’m not keen on giving up my barrel-legs just yet, but I’d consider introducing a straight-leg jean now to wear with muscle tanks and sandals on the weekend.
KNEE-LENGTH SKIRTS:
After years of minis reigning as fashion’s go-to skirt length, hemlines are falling and knee-length skirts are taking over. This is perfect for now—they pretty much match any kind of summer flat or heel—and even better with boots come fall.
SOMETHING BROWN:
I love that we’re continuing to see more rich, chocolate shades—especially as someone who can sometimes find wearing black to be harsh on the eye. Embrace the rich hue now by teaming it with decidedly summer colors like yellow and orange. Then, go head-to-toe brown in a few months.
NEW VICTORIAN:
It’s not quite boho, not quite romantic—it’s somewhere in between. Concentrate on fabrics—think sheer, lace, frilly—now, then use leather accessories to toughen up your pieces in September.
READING LIST
First time reading Self Checkout? Catch up on the past few weeks.
But over the years, I've seen a huge influx in travel-friendly beauty products that make packing and preparing for a trip ten times easier. From water-activated cleansers to exfoliating toner pads, these are the skincare products that are always in my toiletry bag on vacation.
My Cleansing Heroes
Any good skincare routine starts with a good cleanser that can properly get rid of dirt, oil, and makeup, but these formulas are dissolvable and easy to travel with since they're mostly water-activated. I pack these in lieu of big bottles of cleanser, and they've saved me a huge headache on many occasions.
I'll never stop singing the praises of these little tabs. They're so easy to travel with since they're water-activated; all you have to do is rub it in between your hands with a little water and it lathers and cleanses perfectly without drying out my skin.
This is an oil-based makeup wipe that dissolves in water, and it gets the job done without being too messy. I like to use them in the shower, but simply using one at the sink before washing your face also works.
Toning Pads
Bottled toner can be a little messy at times, which is why I'm much more likely to use a toner when it comes in the form of a pad. These single-use formulas are just some of my favorites.
I grabbed these vitamin C-infused pads once after noticing a post-acne blemish, and after a few weeks of consistent use, I definitely noticed a difference in how they were able to fade out dark spots.
I was ecstatic to learn that my favorite exfoliating toner from Paula's Choice is now available as a single-use toning pad. These help to clear my congested skin in between facials, and they're way less messy and easier to use than traditional bottled toner.
Serum Sticks
My solution to not packing messy serums that can break or spill in my bag? Serum sticks. They're non-messy, don't make my fingers feel sticky, and easy-to-apply during the day and before bed.
Even though it's in stick form, this serum has a surprisingly soft texture and practically glides over the skin like butter. It's filled with actives and antioxidants that protect your skin from sun damage while also reducing signs of aging.
This stick has such a fun, bouncy texture that made it hard for me to believe it was actually a serum the first time I used it. It's super-hydrating thanks to its inclusion of niacinamide, though it also features cooling technology to soothe red or irritated skin when necessary.
Mega-Moisturizing Faves
My main concern when traveling is keeping my skin as moisturized as possible. These are my favorite products for getting the job done.
Spending time on a plane (or, really, any new environment) can be a little harsh on the skin. Whenever my face is suffering from travel-induced dryness, I've found that this mask-moisturizer hybrid (which includes both niacinamide and hyaluronic acid) adds moisture back into my combination skin without making my face feel heavy or greasy.
Another moisturizer that hydrates without leaving me with a greasy feeling, I like to massage this into my skin at night to wake up looking super dewy and fresh.
Sunscreen Superstars
Sunscreens have evolved far beyond the greasy formulas of the past. From sticks to sprays, these products travel well and will forever hold a spot in my makeup bag.
This is an on-the-go version of the brand's Unseen formula. Popping this into your purse or travel bag is insanely easy, and if you want to apply sunscreen that doesn't feel greasy or goopy on your hands, this is the perfect product.
It comes in a small bottle that's easy to pack, but most importantly, it's a mist that makes reapplying sunscreen throughout the day much more realistic.
Why Trust Marie Claire
For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion, and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.
]]>“At this very moment, you can discover brand-new arrivals at exclusive prices before fall even begins,” says Nordstrom's associate fashion director, Linda Cui Zhang. Take a look through Nordstrom’s site and you’ll notice a bevy of autumn staples—including cozy knit sweaters that will anchor your capsule wardrobe, denim jackets that will help you to master the art of layering, and even Western boots that embrace fashion’s cowgirl craze. “Now is your chance to refresh your closet with timeless must-haves, invest in elevated essentials, and treat yourself to something special,” Zhang adds.
Ahead, the style expert shares 17 Nordstrom finds that have earned a special place in her shopping cart. If something catches your eye, make sure to act swiftly. The annual sale ends on Sunday, August 3, and items are already selling fast!
Your transitional wardrobe isn’t complete without this short-sleeved sweater. “Pair this piece with shorts and sandals for warm weather, and when temperatures drop, layer this top with outerwear,” says Zhang.
Ask any fashion expert about barrel jeans, and they’ll tell you that that these billowing bottoms will be one of fall 2025's most viral denim trends. Slip into this style and prepare to make heads turn.
If you already have a traditional trench coat, switch things up with this option cut from denim. Go full-on Canadian tuxedo and wear this piece with coordinating jeans.
"Investing in styles that work year-round is the key to building a wardrobe that feels effortless,” Zhang tells Marie Claire. As for what pieces are worth your hard-earned money, consider this sumptuous bucket bag from Veronica Beard.
For those moments when you want to lounge on the couch all day, pull on Zella’s snug sweat shorts. They’re so cozy, you’ll want to fall asleep in them.
Unlike standard leggings, Vince’s stretchy bottoms boast a subtle flared silhouette. Zhang recommends these close-fitting pants if you want to champion “elevated comfort.”
Western-inspired styles are dominating the fashion set, so why not give the trend a ride? You can do just that with AllSaints’s denim shirt, which has “take me to the rodeo” written all over it.
Ground your fall outfits in Stuart Weitzman’s Tassel Loafers, which exude an oh-so preppy feel.
Minimalists everywhere will be delighted to hear that chocolate brown is the highly anticipated color trend of fall 2025. Try the delectable neutral shade for yourself with Alice + Olivia’s leather button-up.
Barn jackets are back for another spin around the trend cycle this autumn. Invest in the timeless look with this corduroy version that flaunts a contrast trim.
Cowboy boots are dominating street style—even French girls have adopted the sturdy footwear trend. As we make our way into fall, consider paring these shoes with flared jeans, a T-shirt, and a cardigan.
I’m swiftly falling for the rosy hue plastered across Vince’s cashmere sweater. However, if you’d prefer another color, the label offers several other shades that are equally as stunning.
I’m on a side quest to elevate my pajama collection. After Zhang suggested this cozy set from Nordstrom, it immediately landed a spot in my shopping cart.
There’s nothing wrong with everyday jewelry, but I’m looking to give my accessory collection a playful boost. I’ll do so with Monica Vinader’s beaded necklace, crafted with earthy stones.
We’ve got a while until winter—but you can never be too prepared, right? Get ahead of the chilly season with Zella’s sophisticated quilted jacket.
Last fall, English country style reigned supreme, and the charming trend is poised to rise in popularity once again. Frye’s sleek riding boots are right on theme.
Nordstrom’s Anniversary Sale is filled with discounted designer pieces, and if you don’t believe me, take a look at these sleek Prada shades.
Fast-forward to summer 2025, and these stylish cutoffs remain a popular trend for warm weather. I’ve seen some fashionable street style icons adopting a relaxed look, pairing their satin shorts with bohemian-inspired tops and motorcycle boots. Meanwhile, other fashionable women are going for a more refined vibe, choosing to match lace-trimmed satin shorts with blouses and loafers.
It’s clear why ultra-cropped satin pants have become such a popular staple this summer. Besides offering a polished look, they’re also practical. On hot, sweat-inducing days when temperatures hit above 90 degrees, breezy silky bottoms provide a lightweight alternative to Daisy Dukes and knee-length Bermudas.
So, if you’re aiming to balance fashion and function, keep reading. Ahead, find a curated selection of satin shorts that will help you do just that. Plus, you can wear them through Labor Day—just layer your look with a knit cardigan or a linen blazer for extra warmth.
If you want to try out the satin shorts trend without spending a lot, check out Zara's budget-friendly option. Priced at $40, you won’t have to spend a fortune.
Upgrade your summer capsule wardrobe with a versatile pair of black bottoms that match almost any top.
Trimmed in lace, Reformation’s Fern shorts showcase a charming vibe. I can easily imagine myself wearing these delicate shorts with a simple tank top and leather sandals.
Fashion’s girlhood aesthetic remains popular, and Aritzia’s satin shorts embody the youthful trend with charming floral prints.
For those who prefer longer inseams, try this extended version from J.Crew. The hemline hits right around the mid-thigh.
Made from 100% silk, Donni’s shorts are a smart investment. Buy them now and see how they become a staple in your wardrobe.
According to designers like Chloé, Isabel Marant, and Zimmermann, boho is making a comeback. Embrace the free-spirited style with these frilly shorts and pair the look with a ruffled blouse and mahogany wedges.
It’s time for butter yellow to step back—chocolate brown has become the must-have color in every It girl’s wardrobe. Now, it’s your turn to try out the trend.
Make a bold statement with Reiss’s patterned shorts. Featuring lemon blossoms, these bottoms capture a summery vibe.
Technically, Abercrombie & Fitch's loose-fitting hot pants are pajama shorts, but hear me out! Pair them with a buttoned blouse and strappy sandals, and you've got a chic warm-weather look.
For a sporty-chic vibe, pull on these satin shorts from Adidas. They’ll become a top pick in your collection of casual outfits.
Elevate your coastal wardrobe with Enza Costa’s slip shorts. They’re perfect for walks along the shore and casual poolside lunches.
Designed with a contrast lace trim, these pull-ons stand apart from the crowd.
From now until Sunday, August 3, the retailer is offering a range of fashion deals that practically scream, “quiet luxury.” I spotted a sharp tailored vest that will round out my office-friendly uniforms, a sleek summer dress fit for upscale occasions, and a polished pair of sandals that will anchor my travel outfits. Oh, and the best part of all? Every single item that I found falls under $100.
So, if you’re anything like me—a sophisticated minimalist who doesn’t want to spend a fortune—keep scrolling. Ahead, you’ll discover a list of 24 basics that appear much more expensive than they actually are. While many of these elegant pieces are ideal for heat-wave dressing, I’ve also included a few transitional items, considering fall is right around the corner.
Found: your new favorite work bag.
How chic are these flats?
This dress toes the line between sweet and elevated.
Yes, this is a nightgown, but you can wear it with flats.
These kitten heels are perfect for wedding season or the office.
What I love most about Wayf’s blazer is that it’s cinched at the waist for a sculpted look. I can’t wait to wear this layer with dark-wash jeans and glossy loafers.
Ballet flats rank high on the list of 2025 shoe trends. Pair Steve Madden's Pipa flats with a floaty dress and a ladylike handbag to play into fashion’s girlhood aesthetic.
There’s something about satin that feels so wealthy. Wear this asymmetric dress from Open Edit, and you’ll look like a million bucks.
You can never have too many white dresses in your closet. Consider Nordstrom’s breezy option made of 100-percent cotton.
Plaid might be in the spotlight this year, but the truth is, this checked pattern has always been in style. Lean into the look with Wit & Wisdom’s pleated trousers.
I’ve never been a fan of itsy-bitsy shorts. I prefer bottoms with longer inseams, which is why ASTR the Label’s pleat shorts have earned a prime spot in my shopping cart.
Neo-Victorian fashion is poised to be one of fall 2025’s biggest trends. Embrace the refined aesthetic with this midi skirt covered in delicate lace.
While jeans are considered casual, there are plenty of denim bottoms out there with a rich-looking edge. Take, for example, this dark-wash pair from Mango.
There’s nothing I love more than a lavish pair of kitten heels. Doused in a trending shade of chocolate brown, these sandals from Open Edit have officially caught my attention.
If you want to look put-together while running errands, Zella’s mini dress will do the trick.
Nordstrom’s Sydney Ankle Strap Sandals are the perfect pair of black summer shoes that will match with just about any warm-weather outfit.
I just found this stunning cover-up that will seamlessly transition from the beach to an oceanfront happy hour.
The oval beads keep this top from feeling too basic.
Even the coolest, chicest women need a pair of sneakers.
Trench season is almost here.
What's a capsule wardrobe without a few layerable necklaces?
We still have one more month of summer, so snag these now.
I bet every chic New Yorker will be sporting identical loafers to these this fall.
I love knit vests during the late summer transition period.
“Unlike traditional lipsticks or glosses that sit on the surface of the lips, lip stains have a thinner, often liquid or gel-based formula, which allows them to be absorbed into the top layer of the lips,” says Amanda Bell, global director of artistry and education at Pixi Beauty. “This creates a more natural-looking tint that lasts for hours.”
In short, stains are an ideal way to simplify your lip routine without sacrificing the details that make experimenting with different looks so fun. Just like traditional lip pencils and lipsticks, stains can be blended and mixed to create custom shades or serve as a long-lasting liner. Some can even be used as eye and cheek colors. The possibilities are endless.
Still, not every lip stain is created equally. Several were immediately discarded after testing for this story because they had abysmally narrow shade ranges, leaked, or even disappeared completely when blended into the skin. To save you time (and money), I’ve gone ahead and curated a list of the best lip stains on the market. Whether you want a one-and-done lip liner stain or a color that lasts for hours with no touch-ups needed, keep reading to discover the formulas worth trying.
The Best Lip Stains
- Best Lip Stain Overall: Huda Beauty Lip Contour Stain
- Best Viral Lip Stain: Sacheu Peel-Off Lip Liner Stay-N
- Best Luxury Lip Stain: Victoria Beckham Color Wash
- Best Drugstore Lip Stain: E.L.F. Cosmetics Sheer For It Blush Lip + Cheek Tint
- Best Glossy Lip Stain: Wonderskin Lip Rehab Serum Oil
One of the newest offerings on the market has quickly risen to the top of my list as my favorite lip stain of all time. Huda Beauty’s lip contour stains not only come in a slim pencil format, making it easy to travel with, but they also have one of the most extensive and pigmented shade ranges I’ve ever seen. Add an easy-to-use felt tip that doesn't tug at the skin or cause patchiness? Immediately yes.
Applicator: Felt-tip marker
Number of Shades Available: Eight
What I Love: Shades made to be used both as lip liners and lip colors; One of the deepest brown lip stains on the market
What I Don’t: Users report the product drying out if stored improperly. Make sure to keep it stored upside down
Review for MC: “This lip stain has quickly become one of my favorites on the market. First, it’s one of the deepest brown lip stains I’ve ever come across, making it perfect for both a sheer wash of color all over the lips and as a liner. Second, it lasts for a concerningly long time (but does come off with an oil-based makeup remover and a bit of elbow grease), which is fantastic for anyone who wants a long-wear stain. Lastly, it doesn’t dry out my lips and wears beautifully under a gloss, making it perfect for an everyday lip combination.” — Ariel Baker, Beauty Writer
At this point, I’d be hard-pressed to find someone who hasn’t heard of Sacheu’s lip liner stains. The products have gone viral countless times and are hailed for not only being budge-proof but also a sensorial delight, thanks to the fact that they must be peeled off to reveal the color underneath.
Applicator: Doe foot
Number of Shades Available: 10
What I Love: Fun to work because of the peel-off factor; Love the flat, extended doe-foot applicator for easily lining the corners of the mouth
What I Don’t: It takes at least five to 10 minutes for the color to develop into its true shade
Review for MC: "I’ve long been a fan of these Sacheu lip stains, and I was ecstatic when they expanded the range to include deep browns, which is practically the only shade I line my lips with. Like the original version of the product, the packaging consists of a tube with a long doe-foot applicator, which I find excellent for reaching the tight corners of the mouth. While I typically wear it as a liner, it also doubles as a true lip stain on the lips, but I notice you need to work very quickly and ensure that the first layer that you lay down is perfectly thick and in one harmonious layer; otherwise, the color can appear a little patchy." — Ariel Baker, Beauty Writer
This superlative should say the best luxurious and one of the most pigmented lip stains because I was truly caught off guard by how well this stain showed up on both my cheeks and lips. A July ‘25 launch from Victoria Beckham Beauty, these Color Washes do just that—they add a soft pop of color to the lips and cheeks and show up beautifully across a range of skin tones, from fair (as proven by MC’s Senior Beauty Editor, Samantha Holender) to deep, as seen on my lips below.
Applicator: Pipette dropper
Number of Shades Available: Three
What I Love: All three shades work across skin tones; Extremely pigmented and long-lasting
What I Don’t: When I layer the color on my lips, there’s almost a slight, filmy feeling on my mouth that takes a few minutes to go away
Review for MC: “I’m speaking prematurely, but think this may be one of my favorite launches of the year. Not only are watercolor blushes virtually nonexistent on the market, but extremely pigmented ones that actually show up on my skin tone haven’t existed—until now, that is. These Color Washes from Victoria Beckham Beauty are the epitome of chic, from the luxe glass packaging to the shades that can be worn every day. As a lip stain, I’ve found these to be long-wearing and easy to use. The little ball at the end of the dropper makes it extremely easy to apply the product to my mouth. An immaculate stain if I do say so myself.” — Ariel Baker, Beauty Writer
The drugstore isn’t the first place I’d look for a lip stain. Eyeshadows? Maybe. Lipglosses? Sure! If you're anything like me, I recommend checking out the E.l.f. section at your local pharmacy. The Sheer For It Tints are technically marketed as blushes, but they are multi-use and can also be applied to the lips.
Applicator: Doe foot
Number of Shades Available: Five
What I Love: Most affordable option on this list; Unscented
What I Don’t: Takes a few layers to really see the color on my skin when used as a blush
Review for MC: "These e.l.f. stains are a hidden gem at the drugstore. My favorite shade is Orange Crush, which, as you may have guessed, is a sheer orange. On the cheek, it takes about three layers for a color payoff that I’m comfortable with, but on the lips, I just dab on a bit of the tinted liquid and blend it into my lips, which provides a punch of color that is noticeable, but not overpowering.” — Ariel Baker, Beauty Writer
A glossy lip stain isn’t something I often hear discussed, but they do exist, and one of my favorites comes from Wonderskin. The Lip Rehab Serum Oil comes in six shades, with my favorite being kissed, a pinky raspberry shade. As is traditional for oil-based lip products, it’s a little thinner in consistency than a traditional gloss. Still, this doesn’t impact the color pay-off, which develops the longer you wear the stain and leaves behind a flush of color once the shine wears off.
Applicator: Doe foot
Number of Shades Available: Six
What I Love: Glossy formula; Becomes more pigmented the longer you wear it; Works perfectly with the brand’s Wonderblading lip mask stain
What I Don’t: Fairly strong caramel scent that I don’t love
Review for MC: “I feel like Wonderskin is a woefully underrated brand that not many people talk about, but this lip oil stain is fantastic. I’ve worn it alone, as well as on top of a full lip combination—I’ve even topped it with a lip gloss. Every single time, the hint of color added the most beautiful finish to my lips, and I cherish my bottle of this product like it’s my firstborn child. It’s that good.” — Ariel Baker, Beauty Writer
Usually, lip stains come in punchier pops of color like reds, oranges, or raspberries, because these shades still give the impression that there’s something on your lips. Still, if you’re looking for a neutral lip stain that shows up beautifully, particularly on fair skin, opt for this one from Clarins, in the shade Nude Water. It’s a beautiful, rosy brown that adds a hint of natural color and is the epitome of a “my lips but better” shade. Add a bit of lip balm on top, and you have an easy, everyday lip combination.
Applicator: Brush tip
Number of Shades Available: Four
What I Love: Wonderful value; Hydrating ingredients like organic aloe vera and a hyaluronic acid complex
What I Don’t: Stain can feel a little tacky on the lips and isn’t the most long-lasting formula
Customer Review: “This was so easy to wear, it felt like water. It’s thin but packed with color. After it dries down, it is practically budge-proof with little to no transfer. Once removed, there is such a beautiful tint left behind. It’s bright initially, but with anything else, it can always be toned down with a lip liner. I love the packaging, but I will say that the little brush holds so much more product than you need. A higher-priced item, but if you’re willing to splurge, then go for it.” — Sephora
Do you have dry lips but still want to take part in the lip stain trend? Pick up this one from Violette_FR. The formula is a hybrid between a traditional lip gloss and a stain, leaving behind a gorgeous veil of color the longer it sits on the lips. The formula also builds on itself beautifully, allowing you to customize the finish that you want.
Applicator: Pointed doe foot
Number of Shades Available: Four
What I Love: Compact but elegant packaging; Buildable color; Long-lasting
What I Don’t: It takes a few layers for the lightest shade to show up on deeper skin tones
Customer Review: “I use Dahlia Noir as a liner and Betise in the center of the lips, and I love it! I am not a stain gal because I can never get it right, but somehow this works and leaves the prettiest stain!” — Sephora
What Is A Lip Stain?
As the name suggests, lip stains leave behind a tint of color when applied to the skin and are known for being extremely long-wearing. “They’re so trendy right now because there are more types of stains on the market than ever before, and they all come in a gorgeous spectrum of hues,” Bell says. From markers to traditional liquid formulas applied via doe-foot applicators, and even ones that come in droplet packaging, as a beauty expert who stays on top of the latest trends, I have to say that I agree with her—I don’t think there have been this many variations of lip stains on the market, well, ever.
“They typically offer a sheer to buildable wash of color, providing a natural-looking tint or a ‘just-bitten' effect,” Bell adds. “It's super effortless, and you can add some gloss or lipstick on top to finish the look.”
How to Use a Lip Stain
The biggest perk of a lip stain is that its lightweight nature makes it comfortable to wear, often feeling like you have nothing on your lips. Still, depending on which one you get, they can be tricky to apply.
First, it’s essential to begin with a clean, smooth canvas. “Gently exfoliate the lips beforehand to slough off dry skin,” Bell says. “This allows you to prep with a little bit of moisture to create a great base and lock in colour.” After your lips are nicely polished, apply the color. “To make the lips look naturally tinted, outline them first and then fill in for a soft, all-over flush,” Bell says.
How to Remove a Lip Stain
It's both a gift and a curse that lip stains are so long-lasting. On one hand, the longevity of the formula means you can get through an entire day without needing to reapply. On the other hand, you spend extra time scrubbing your mouth to take it off at night. That said, choosing the right product can greatly cut down your makeup removal time—similar to how some cleansers take off waterproof mascara or eyeliner better than others.
It's best to use an oil- or micellar-based makeup remover or cleansing balm to lift the color from the lips, Bell says. “These products are designed to dissolve makeup, including lip stains, effectively. Think of a lip stain as waterproof, so these products will help to melt makeup but not strip your skin of moisture in the process.”
Why Trust Marie Claire?
For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.
How We Tested
Marie Claire Beauty Writer, Ariel Baker, went through a rigorous testing period where she reviewed over 20 lip stain formulas and colors. After determining the top picks based on first-hand experience, customer reviews, and fellow-editor recommendations, she tested the final formulas on her lips considering how they feel, how they apply, how long they last, and the ingredients to compile this list of the seven best lip stains on the market.
Meet the Expert
]]>With my streamlined travel capsule wardrobe, I’m not bogged down by overthinking—or overpacking. In fact, I have everything I might need for any type of trip. For upscale outdoor dinners, I can rely on a smocked white dress—like the one below from Veronica Beard—made from polished cotton fabric. Peaceful moments by the water call for Zara’s striped bikini set paired with J.Crew’s classic linen pants—a foolproof beach outfit that coordinates perfectly with quintessential summer accessories, like leather sandals, a woven raffia tote, and, of course, a bubbly Aperol Spritz in hand.
Since we still have over a month before summer ends, I’ve decided to share my top vacation essentials with you. So, before you say goodbye to the sun-filled season, add these 22 items to your shopping list—and finally plan that trip you’ve been wanting to take!
I can’t count how many compliments I’ve received while wearing Veronica Bead’s Kaela sundress. With a delicate ruched bodice and a flowing skirt, the silhouette of this lovely dress is so refined.
J.Crew’s linen pants are perfect for hot days in the sun. These pants are soft and breathable, so they won’t cling to your skin.
Whether you’re sightseeing around town or exploring your resort, it’s nice to have a crossbody bag that keeps your hands free. This one from Cuyana is my absolute favorite.
If you want to upgrade your vacation outfits, try Banana Republic’s crochet vest. With eye-catching stripes, this top is sure to make any look more lively.
According to Hailey Bieber, lemon yellow is this season’s most delectable color trend. Play into the cheery shade with Reformation’s linen shorts.
I'd argue that a white button-down is the most versatile vacation staple. Whether worn as a cover-up by the pool or styled alongside a maxi skirt for a cocktail hour, this style can do it all.
I'm leveling up my going-out outfits with these heeled raffia sandals. Not only are they elegant, but these cushioned shoes are beyond comfortable.
No travel wardrobe is complete without a little black dress. Consider this one from Aritzia, designed with airy poplin fabric and a roomy shape.
Ask me about this summer’s top jewelry trends, and I’ll wax poetic about cord necklaces. Yep, this ‘90s style is officially back in 2025. So, give it a go with this version from Jenny Bird.
I’m an outfit repeater, which means that my vacation essentials need to last for the long haul. Plastered with neutral-toned stripes, this Zara bikini top definitely ticks the “timeless” box. Buy now and wear for summers to come.
Here are the matching bikini bottoms to the top above top. This style falls in the middle of the spectrum between full-coverage and cheeky.
Assembling a sightseeing outfit? Slip into these Agolde Bermuda shorts and team them with a T-shirt, a pair of fisherman sandals, and a canvas tote bag.
If you have a packed travel itinerary, you’ll want to reach for vacation essentials that offer both function and style. Take this open-knit dress, for example, which can easily transition from the beach to a classy dinner.
Put a twist on the standard black skirt style with this alternative trimmed in fringe.
Seashell jewelry has been a top summer jewelry trend. I’ll be diving in with these earrings from Ettika, adorned with freshwater cultured pearls.
When temperatures are simply too hot to bear, swap your lengthy trousers for a breezy white skirt. Mango’s version features chic pleats.
I’m the type of vacationer who loves to keep my workout routine, so I’ve added Veronica Beard’s Ace tennis dress to my outfit rotation. While this piece is great for when I’m breaking a sweat, it’s also sophisticated enough to wear beyond the court.
The bow details on this Abercrombie & Fitch top are so dainty. I can easily picture myself wearing this shirt with satin shorts and flip-flops for a poolside lunch.
These red jelly sandals are effortlessly cool, but more than anything, they’re also practical. Woven with a mesh upper, these shoes can withstand any heat wave.
Allow me to introduce you to your new favorite beach bag. Ditch your tired old tote for this elevated accessory from Staud.
Of all of Nordy's best fashion deals—an exhaustive list featuring European vacation essentials, easy linen pieces, and designer steals that I'm over the moon about—the mini, maxi, and midi dresses caught my eye the most. I've been searching far and wide for a gingham dress to wear to park picnics and found one in two quick scrolls. The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale has fall 2025's trends covered, too, with lace-y Victorian-esque slips and leopard print midis that you can start wearing in July and keep in your closet until December.
Keep scrolling to discover the on-trend dresses I recommend adding to your closet—and it's best to move quickly, considering the retailer's biggest annual sale is a fashion girl's goldmine for snagging top styles at almost-too-good-to-be-true prices. (For instance, my current Nordy's cart is filled with this summer's shoe trends and polished basics for fashion editor-worthy work outfits.) The discounts are running until August 3, so you only have a few more days to shop before everything returns to full price.
The Best Deals (So Far)
- Best Summer Wedding Guest Dress: ASTR the Label Maeve Floral Midi Sundress (Was $109), Now $76
- Best Floral Summer Dress: Favorite Daughter The Who Me Floral Maxi Dress (Was $298), Now $224
- Best White Summer Dress: Steve Madden Osiris Lace Maxi Dress (Was $129), Now $85
- Best Black Summer Dress: Staud Wells Dip Dye Stretch Cotton Dress (Was $345), Now $242
- Best Summer Dress With Sleeves: Alex Mill Lauren Long Sleeve Linen Wrap Dress (Was $255) Now $100
Best Summer Dress Deals on Nordstrom
In case you missed it: Boho fashion is back, and fall 2025's trend lineup will bring Victorian-era romance into the spotlight. In other words, lace is in, and this tiered maxi dress is an excellent take on the textile.
Sweet florals are always a good idea for summer.
My mom owns this dress in three colors, but my eye naturally went right to this gray ombre version.
Olive green is on the come up, hot on the heels of butter yellow and chocolate brown. This breezy kaftan from resort brand Diarrablu is an effortless way to give the natural color trend a try.
Up there with lace, ruffles and frills are also trending upwards. This button-down-inspired mini mixes professional polish with a girlish feel.
I've lost track of how long I've been waxing poetic about meaningful minimalism, but this colorblocked midi from Ever New perfectly executes the low-effort, high-impact aesthetic.
As for the summer 2025 denim trends, easy shift dresses were at the forefront. Denim brand Frame masters the streamlined and simplified silhouette.
As MC fashion editor Lauren Tappan declared a few weeks ago, "Polka dots are fashion's favorite throwback print this summer." Instead of sticking to classic, retro-inspired black and white dots, this ASTR the Label midi opts for a more unexpected mint green.
Dots are one of summer's most dominant trends.
This corseted gingham dress is already en route to my apartment. In two to three business days, I'll wear it with my favorite cherry red kitten heels and trendy jute bag.
Comfy smocked summer dresses are having a moment, as reported by fashion e-commerce editor Julia Marzovilla. This ruched little black dress is a no-brainer, easy-to-wear buy.
Oh, how I love Alex Mill. The basics brand masters balancing timeless staples with trend infusion—like this puff-sleeved wrap dress in a classic black linen.
This gives the term "floral sundress" new life.
As I mentioned, boho style is back in a very, very big way. Farm Rio's paisley-print maxi with balloon sleeves honors the free-spirited aesthetic and reminds me of the gowns Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen wore during the aughts.
Bows sweeten up this otherwise simple dress.
You likely don't need me to tell you about the fisherman aesthetic that's dominating the season. This Breton-striped midi with gold buttons and center sailor pockets nails the sea-bound trend to a T.
This polo sweater dress is the perfect transitional find.
For the rest of the summer, I'd style this flirty leopard-spotted mini with strappy, peep-toe sandals and then, come fall, with a brown blazer and leather knee-high boots.
I would wear this tight tights and heels for the office.
Babydoll dresses are my favorite summer trend.
Found: the perfect vacation dress.
HIGH SUMMER VACATION GEAR:
I’m off to Puerto Rico in August (manifesting Bad Bunny tickets!!!) and I am so, so excited. I generally do not believe in shopping purely for vacay, but something has taken over me and I can’t help myself. I’m justifying these purchases by doubling down on really great pieces I know I’ll wear for many summers to come.
BOOKMARKED FINDS FOR FALL:
It’s never too early to start considering some pieces you may want to pick up now and wear in a few months, right?
THINGS TO WEAR TO WORK:
I’ve lamented enough about getting dressed for work during the summer. Pure and simple: If you live in New York, it absolutely sucks. Schlepping in 90 degree weather only to be met with blasting AC once you arrive at the office—absolutely brutal. But I’ve found that these outfit ingredients make putting together a look much easier.
WISH-LIST ITEMS:
These finds will follow me around from browser to browser for the foreseeable future.
Reading List
First time reading Self Checkout? Catch up on the past few weeks.
While some are taking an unconventional approach by wearing the square-shaped accessory around the waist (IYKYK), others are test-driving the more traditional way to style a hair scarf—tied diagonally around the head and tucked delicately behind the ears.
Bandanas are perfect for controlling frizz, especially in unbearably humid weather. But beyond being a practical headpiece, the best hair scarves can also elevate any summer outfit for a stylish European summer look. Take inspiration from Hailey Bieber, who recently paired a polka dot bandana with a Pucci print bikini. You can also follow Zoë Kravitz’s example—the actress styled a baby blue scarf with a barely-there camisole, low-rise trousers, sleek flip-flops, and The Row’s Barn Tote.
Whether you’re trying to prevent hair strands from sticking to your face or looking for an easy way to make your outfits more lively, I have a curated list of bandanas for you to explore. Up front, you’ll find a variety of options—including designer brands like Hermès and budget-friendly options like Zara.
If you’re considering an investment, check out this polished silk scarf from Hermès. Featuring a classic paisley pattern, it’s built to last a long time.
Celebrate summer’s romance with floral prints through Zara’s cotton scarf. The beautiful embroidered bouquet makes this accessory irresistibly charming.
Nordstrom gives the bandana trend a luxe twist with this piece made from luxurious silk.
Do you remember earlier when I mentioned Zoë Kravitz owns a baby blue bandana? This one from J.Crew looks almost identical to hers, so I’ll be adding it to my shopping cart.
For a full-coverage look, grab Madewell’s oversized silk bandana. I prefer this warm-toned option, but the brand also offers a vibrant multi-colored version and a simple navy-and-white style.
Known for their stylish handbags, 8 Other Reasons also offers a refined selection of bandanas that deserve your attention.
Want to try the head scarf trend without spending too much? Go for this one from Mango—only $23!
What I love most about Prada’s silk twill scarf is its abstract design. I can’t wait to wear this piece and get endless compliments.
According to designer runways and celebrity circles, plaid is the most sought-after pattern of the season. Embrace the trend with Burberry’s checkered bandana.
If your outfit feels a little dull, try this vibrant bandana soaked in a delightful shade of bubblegum pink.
Made from soft cotton, Banana Republic’s hair scarf helps keep you cool even on the hottest summer days.
H&M's bandana makes a bold statement with large leaf prints. Let this piece be the highlight by pairing it with an all-white outfit.
Channel your inner horse girl with this checkered bandana, designed by Reformation in partnership with country music star Kacey Musgraves.
Calling all minimalists—this Gap bandana is perfect for you. It features a neutral color and a subtle print for an easy, understated look.
As of late, my natural hair routine—more specifically, my twist out routine—consists of a weekly wash and condition, a blow out (more on that later), and a lineup of cleansing, conditioning, and styling products that all moisturize and define my type 4 curls while keeping them looking fresh for days at a time.
Read ahead to get a look at my current twist out routine.
Hydrating Shampoos Are Essential
Curly hair is prone to dryness, so when picking out shampoos, I make sure I'm sticking to hydrating formulas that are good at getting rid of any product buildup that might be sitting on my curls and scalp without drying out my hair.
This is one of my favorite drugstore shampoos, and I've been loyal to it for years. I can buy a bottle of this for under $10, and because a small amount can really go a long way (a dime-sized amount will give me the best lather), I never have to worry about buying another bottle for at least a few months.
When I want something a little more luxurious, I reach for this. It's infused with hyaluronic acid in order to add moisture back into the strands while you shampoo, and I only have to use a small amount to get a good cleanse.
A Good Conditioner Is Even More Important
When I don't have time to deep condition, these conditioners get the job done just fine. I start by washing my hair as soon as I get in the shower before adding in conditioner and letting it sit while I do the rest of my shower routine.
This has become a new addition to my haircare lineup ever since I got my hair professionally colored back in October. Before I used this, my colored hair would dry out so easily and it would feel rough and course even after a deep condition. Now, my hair is softer and more moisturized than ever.
I'll be honest: this was a fan-favorite product on TikTok long before I finally decided to try it out, and once I did, I immediately understood the hype. Before trying this, my hair had been experiencing some dryness, but once I rinsed this out of my curls, my hair was noticeably softer.
Blow Out Essentials
I usually fall victim to single strand knots that end up making length retention impossible, and I've found that this issue shows up less when my hair is stretched, which is why I like to do twists on blown-out hair. These are the products that make that process a breeze.
This Dyson hair dryer is a big investment, but it dries my thick hair in just 20 minutes, and I never have to worry about frizz or flyaways afterwards.
Before blow drying my hair, I always like to throw a small amount of this onto each section. It's a serum that has a slightly oily texture (but it doesn't make your hair or scalp feel oily) and not only does it add shine back to the hair, it provides heat protection as well.
My Styling Must-Haves
Once my hair is washed, conditioned, and all blown-out, I reach for these to prepare my hair for twists and to ensure that my curls will be frizz-free for multiple days.
Once my hair is all dry, I like to add a leave-in conditioner for some extra moisture. This one softens my hair and hydrates without leaving behind flakes or buildup.
This is another one of my favorite leave-in products because it has a milky texture that doesn't feel too thick on my hair. It also comes in a bottle with a spray nozzle, which helps me feel like I'm more in control of how much product I'm applying.
If I had to pick just one mousse to be loyal to forever, it'd absolutely be this one. It's a foam that transforms into a water-like consistency once you rub it in and apply it to your hair, and it doesn't harden or flake when it dries. I usually divide my hair into small sections and add a small amount to each before twisting it up.
I love the texture of this custard! It looks like a gel, but once you scoop it out of the jar, it sort of melts into your fingers and turns into a soft consistency that doesn't flake up or harden once it dries down on your hair. Once my hair is already twisted, I like to add this to the ends of my twists to secure them and keep them from unraveling while I sleep.
Why Trust Marie Claire
For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion, and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.
]]>Celebrity nail artist Queenie Nguyen loves a neutral nail for its versatility, elegance, and ability to pull a look together. "They give a polished, understated finish that aligns with current 'quiet luxury' and minimalist beauty trends," she says, adding that a nude nail look communicates sophistication without trying too hard—and like a nail extension, a nude can elongate the hands.
Erica De Los Santos, a nail artist and founder of Nail'd It Beauty Lounge, also thinks the manicure will forever be a favorite, as she says it's one of the most classic and universally flattering looks. "Whether it’s for a clean everyday style, a professional setting, or even the red carpet, nude nails have always been a go-to," De Los Santos says. "Plus, they tend to grow out more discreetly and hide chips better than bold colors, which makes them practical as well as timeless."
Keep scrolling for 30 nude manicure ideas that are perfect for every event, ever—plus celebrity nail artist's polish picks and polish-perfecting advice.
The Best Nude Nail Ideas
Classic Nude Nails
Nothing beats a classic. Sometimes, the best neutral manicure is the one that features your favorite nude polish and most flattering nail shape. In this case, that means a light pinky tan shade and coffin tip by celebrity nail artist Christina Duong.
French Latté Nude Nails
There are a million iterations of nude out there, and while a shade might be your nude, that doesn't mean you can't switch it up from time to time. How does a different color on every fingernail in French tip format sound?
Polka Dot Nude Nails
OPI Global Ambassador Zola Ganzorigt is a manicure legend, both for her work with Hailey Bieber (they coined the glazed donut look together!) and for basically every other design she's come up with. Recently, she gave the model a fun and summery polka dot manicure that made good use of nude shades (in this case, the model's natural nail) and chrome powder.
"Use one coat of OPI Nail Lacquer in Kyoto Pearl over naked nails and top them with white dots using OPI Nail Lacquer in Alpine Snow to get Hailey’s look," she tells Marie Claire.
Tiramisu Nude Nails
If you don't want fancy nail art? Keep things simple with a sheer look. "I created a nude set for Hailee Steinfeld for Paris Couture Week. I used OPI Nail Lacquer in Tiramisu for Two as the base with chrome over top," says Ganzorigt. "The shade is a little sheer and looks like an extension of her skin. Apply OPI Nail Lacquer in Glazed N’ Amused over OPI Nail Lacquer in Tiramisu for Two to recreate Hailee’s nails."
Silver Drip Nude Nails
According to Duong, this silver drip manicure is "the perfect summer addition, bold and reflective of the season’s sweltering heat." This is proof that a fun trend and a nude base are the perfect pairing; you can make the color scheme work with anything.
Gold-Plated Nude Nails
An unexpected touch of dimension and texture is foil detailing. This nude velvet manicure by De Los Santos was made all the better with the addition of some gold foil trim and base decor.
Soap Nude Nails
Truong crafted this "soap nail" manicure for Halle Berry to wear to the 2025 Met Gala. "Nude manicures are trending this season—in fact, they are trending for all seasons because of their versatility, simplicity, and timeless aesthetic," says Truong. "Trends we are seeing now are the 'quiet luxury,' 'clean girl,' and 'soap nail' vibes—where manicures are polished, simple, and gorgeous."
Negative Space Nude Nails
Celebrity nail artist Tara Hayes made these cute shorties happen. The black line work over a nude base gives a negative space effect (one of our favorite 2025 nail trends).
Galactic Nude Nails
Reach for the stars—if you miss, at least you'll have inspiration for a cute manicure. This design by Nguyen features a nude base with a jelly finish and some fun star details. You can get a similar look with Deco Beauty's Golden Hour nail sticker set.
Snakeskin Nude Nails
Snakeskin is so chic that it can work on your boots, bag, or even your nails. Ganzorigt says you can get this look by applying one coat of OPI Nail Lacquer Natural Nail Base Coat. Then, try one coat of Tiramisu for Two, a foil adhesive, and snakeskin foil transfer sticker before sealing the look with the OPI Nail Lacquer Top Coat.
Berry Nude Nails
Celebrity nail artist Betina Goldstein is known for her realistic designs. For this fruit nail design, she drew some tiny blueberries against a pale nude base.
Classic French Nude Nails
Behold, the classic French manicure—on a nude base, naturally. "Nude manicures are having a major moment this season because they’re the ultimate blend of low-effort and high-chic. As minimal, clean girl aesthetics continue trending in beauty, nude nails perfectly complement every outfit—from quiet luxury linen sets to bold summer colors, without clashing," says Nguyen. They also photograph beautifully, making them a favorite for content creators, brides, and girls on the go. Think of them as the 'no-makeup makeup' for your nails."
If you need a little base polish help, the artist was kind enough to share her favorites from ORLY. Roam With Me is "a sophisticated rose nude crème with a subtle pink undertone," Country Club Khaki is "a muted neutral taupe that gives a sophisticated edge," and Pink Nude offers a classic 'your nails but better' look by offering "a healthy, clean appearance."
White Linework Nude Nails
Aren't these sweeping white lines fun and different? That's another reason that Truong loves a nude manicure: the adaptability. "They can be worn alone for a timeless, chic look or they can be the foundation for minimalistic or maximalist nail art," she says.
In the polish world, the DND Gel ambassador is into Flower Girl (a sheer, buildable pink color that's great as a base for French tips), the soft and rosy Tea Time (it "gives nails a natural and elegant pink glow), and the soft, creamy beige How Do U Neutral?, which she calls "universally flattering." If you need to get those white details right, try Coconut Silk. The shade is a semi-sheer, milky white polish with a very subtle shimmer that you can build up to increase opacity.
Lip Gloss Nude Nails
Here, you can see an ideal nude that gives lip gloss. The high-shine nail set is done by artist Mateja Novakovic, and proves that, yes, pink can be a nude.
Bedazzled Star Nude Nails
"If you ask me, there is never enough sparkle," said nail artist Miss Pop while talking to Marie Claire about short nail designs. "You can bedazzle small stars—no need to get all five points in there."
Reverse French Tip Nude Nails
This look was pinned on nail artist Novakovik's Instagram grid forever because she had to explain it so often. Can you blame the world for asking, though? It's such a good one.
To get the look, she used Manucurist polishes: Milky White was the shade for the lunula nail art. While the base shade has since been discontinued, she says you can use one of the brand's Active Smooth shades to get a similar look.
"I painted the whole base in the nude shade, then lined the half moons with a nail art liner brush, and filled them in with the same brush," she shared in an Instagram post. "Such an easy but effective look!"
Silver Swirl Nude Manicure
Duong calls this little number "a side French with a twist." To get the look, grab a sheer nude base and configure a triangle design on one side of the nail with a singular thin line on top.
"To bring the look up a notch, the design can be done with a silver chrome color," she adds. "That way it’s still neutral but has a wow factor."
Cateye Nude Nails
It's giving Greek goddess nails. This luxe style by De Los Santos has both a pretty cat-eye shimmer base and even more glitter going on with the trim.
Almond Nude Nails
Sometimes the best way to dress up your favorite nude nail polish is with a fun shape. For this look, celebrity nail artist Elle Gerstein worked pop starlet Tate McRae's fingernails into a long almond shape with Après Nail's Gel X stiletto tips in the size medium. Then she used a layer of their gel polish in "Kana Believe It" (you can add a second coat if needed!) and finished up with their Glossy Non-Wipe Top Gelcoat.
Ombré Nude Nails
Another Gerstein number, this pretty set transitions from a yellowish nude at the tip to a pinkish nude near the cuticle. It's a classic ombré effect, tuned down for the nude manicure aficionados among us.
Textured Mocha Nude Manicure
"An order of mocha with added textures, please," wrote Nguyen when sharing this mani. For what it's worth, one of her favorite coffee polishes is ORLY's Coffee Break, a "warm brown-nude crème with a subtle, smooth coverage and a cozy undertone, evoking the comfort of your favorite latte."
Chrome Border Nude Nails
Hi, natural nails! This set by Hayes proves that shorties can have nail art fun by framing the natural (albeit shimmered up with nude polish) nail bed with some coordinating gold trim.
Dainty Floral Nude Nails
"Micro florals or dots using white or soft pastel detailing" is one of Nguyen's favorite nude manicure ideas. For this look, she used ORLY's Milky White Builder Gel as a base before getting to work on those pretty hand-painted roses.
Modern Nude Nails
Why visit the MOMA when you can check out some modern art via your bestie's manicure? Nguyen got to work with the black paint for this set, dotting and lining an almond-shaped nude manicure until it reached a museum-worthy place.
Paisley Nude Nails
Prince loved purple the most, but this paisley look might've convinced him to try out the nudes. After adding the beige base coat, Truong hand-painted some pretty paisley designs with black and white polishes.
Cherry Nude Nails
With a nude nail polish base, you can be anything—even a cherry girl. These cherry-heart-shaped designs are ultra-adorable, and Truong has more unique ideas where this came from. "For creative and eye-catching nail art using nude polish as your base, experiment with chrome or metallic polka dots, French tips in different colors on each nail, or layer various cat eye gels to achieve a dynamic, multidimensional effect," she tells Marie Claire.
"A simple yet elegant look that was recently a hit with a celebrity client featured a sheer nude base with a micro French tip using a more opaque nude in the same shade family, creating a tone-on-tone French manicure," Truong says.
Cateye Chrome French Nude Nails
Duong created this maximalist nude manicure for Keke Palmer at the SNL 50th anniversary party. Didn't we tell you the French manicure was reinventing itself this year?
"A cat-eye chrome French has the classic French tip element, but the French is a soft champagne cat eye then outlined with a gold chrome. And if we’re feeling bold, we can add a few pearls," says the artist. "An intricate look that exudes a soft, elegant aura with an undeniably expensive touch."
Bedazzled Polka Dot Nude Nails
Polka dots are it for summer 2025. If you don't want to use a dotting tool like Ganzorigt, you can apply tiny rhinestones for your dots like Nguyen did here.
Sheer French Nude Nails
"There’s something so captivating about a sheer nude base paired with a delicate French tip—it’s understated yet undeniably chic," wrote De Los Santos in an Instagram post showing off this gorgeous, sheer French manicure.
How to Make Your Nude Nails Last
De Los Santos says that if you want your nude manicure to last, proper preparation is key. "You always want to start by removing any oils or shine from the natural nail, gently pushing back the cuticles, and making sure the nail surface is clean and smooth," she explains.
This helps your polish or enhancement adhere better. And don’t skip the cuticle oil—keeping your cuticles hydrated makes your manicure look fresher longer and prevents lifting or cracking around the edges, De Los Santos says. Whether it’s gel, dip, or regular polish, good prep and daily cuticle oil are game-changers for long-lasting nude nails, she adds.
How to Find The Right Nude Nail Polish Shade
"Nude" is a different color for everyone, but there is one out there for you. According to De Los Santos, it comes down to your skin tone and undertone. "The goal is to pick a nude that complements your complexion—not one that makes your hands look washed out or dull," she says.
As a rule of thumb, De Los Santos says that fair or pink-red undertones should look for a soft pinky nude as it tends to look fresh and flattering. Medium to olive skin tones usually sit well with beige or warm peachy nudes, and deeper skin tones are complemented by richer brown, caramel, or mocha-toned nudes. This is because they will pop beautifully without looking too stark. "You can also play with sheer versus opaque finishes depending on how natural or bold you want the look."
Why Trust Marie Claire
For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.
Meet the Experts
]]>Since my collection is complete—trust me, I couldn't fit even one more pair of pants in my tiny New York City closet—I'm here to share my discounted designer wisdom with you, so you can start building your own. Consider the below a one-stop guide to the best Nordstrom Anniversary Sale deals, from celebrity-approved on-sale sneakers and effortless linen pieces to rich-looking essentials for European vacation outfits.
But, first, some more need-to-know information: Nordy's biggest annual sale runs from July 12 to August 3 and offers shoppers discounts across various categories, including beauty tools, steals across skincare, makeup, and haircare, as well as fragrance sets for a fraction of their original price. Now, if you're ready to dive in, keep scrolling to discover the best affordable designer deals Nordstrom has to offer.
The Best Deals We've Found (So Far)
- Best Designer Top on Sale: Proenza Schouler Yves Stripe Fringe Knit Top (Was $1,390.00), Now $375
- Best Designer Pants on Sale: Eleventy Straight Leg Virgin Wool, Silk & Linen Pants (Were $1,095), Now $394
- Best Designer Dress on Sale: Max Mara Sarah Stretch Poplin Wrap Shirtdress (Was $995), Now $697
- Best Designer Bag on Sale: Mulberry Small Pimlico Leather Tote (Was $1,695), Now $1,305
- Best Designer Shoe on Sale: The Row Novus Derby (Was $1,490), Now $536
- Best Designer Sunglasses on Sale: Tiffany & Co. 56mm Gradient Oval Sunglasses (Were $461), Now $246
Best Designer Tops and Jacket Deals on Nordstrom
For those unaware, Khaite is one of the coolest downtown New York brands (look at Katie Holmes, who might be the biggest fan of the label). It's praised by fashion editors and merchandisers for its knitwear, which is why I suggest grabbing this light gray polo sweater.
A purple color trend is set to dominate fall and winter 2025. Stay ahead of the curve by adding this lilac button-down shirt by Max Mara to your cart.
Plaid is having a moment, and, naturally, the print will keep trending once we reach back-to-school season.
Another NYC insider favorite is FFORME, known for its minimalist and creative twists on feminine essentials, like this draped white tee made of luxurious silk.
Who doesn't love a classic Breton striped shirt? Max Mara pulls off the mariner print perfectly with this white and navy ribbed sweater featuring gold shoulder buttons.
Best Designer Pants Deals on Nordstrom
I'd style these Eleventy linen-blend trousers in a summer work outfit with a short-sleeved white button-down shirt and pointed-toe flats.
Next up: these navy Max Mara front-pleat pants, which pair perfectly with the striped sweater above.
If you want to try 2025's new boho trend, start with these soft suede trousers with a slightly sheer blouse and a solid black loafer.
Some may have moved on from the pandemic's 'soft pants' era—but I haven't. These loose Lafayette 148 New York satin pants look luxe and also have the benefit of feeling like pajamas.
Best Designer Dresses Deals on Nordstrom
What's not to love about a simple wrap dress? I especially adore this one from Max Mara because it's about $300 off.
If happiness were a dress, this sunshine yellow Lela Rose A-line midi is what it would look like.
Floral, feminine, and with a fit-and-flare silhouette—this classic Michael Kors Collection A-line dress in a neutral black-and-white print will never go out of style.
Yes, you read that correctly: This very sweet, cap-sleeved, hourglass McQueen dress is over 60 percent off.
This is another designer option that will become a staple in your summer work rotation. Just remember, this Lafayette 148 New York dress is intentionally baggy, so keep its relaxed silhouette in mind when choosing your size.
This free-spirited floral Max Mara dress will make you feel like you're on a faraway vacation, even if you're stuck in your daily doldrums.
Best Designer Bags Deals on Nordstrom
This Veronica Beard bowling bag adorned with round silver studs is a guaranteed compliment magnet.
I'm really into this bold, exaggerated design. Not only is it eye-catching, but it also lets you fit extra items inside without stretching the leather.
As someone who has thoroughly researched the all-time best Coach bags, trust me when I suggest you add this white C-motif shoulder bag to your virtual Nordy's cart.
When you want to project a business attitude but not be weighed down with your laptop, this is the tote you carry.
After a banner fall 2024 season, suede bags are still going strong. This chocolate brown All Saints bag showcases the supple leather texture very well.
Following butter yellow is bright mustard—trust me: I know a thing or two about the summer 2025 color trends.
I know if I were at an industry event and saw a woman carrying this deep plum circular Lanvin bag, I'd know instantly that she had great taste.
Best Designer Shoe Deals on Nordstrom
You won't want to miss these cherry red ballet flats by Gianvito Rossi, an Italian luxury footwear brand known for its exquisite leatherwork and timeless style.
While I love a pop of color as much as any maximalist, a cool white sneaker makes an undeniable style statement of its own.
These Stewie knee-highs would be a great addition to your fall boot collection, especially since they're $300 off the original price.
You already know what I'm going to say. It's The Row, a brand that, in my opinion, can’t produce a non-beautiful piece. Any product from the cult-followed label on sale with a discount is worth considering.
I've always liked silver shoes because they add a touch of flash and fun to any outfit. I love that these square-toe kitten heels by Stella McCartney are both playful, like the silver vegan leather, and sophisticated, with the Mary Jane strap and comfortable pump design.
A simple way to upgrade your summer shoe collection is to include a strappy leather sandal like these from Stuart Weitzman. The criss-crossing kitten heel is a major upgrade from a rubber pool slide or flip-flop.
Best Designer Sunglasses Deals on Nordstrom
Isabel Marant is another boho brand associated with the aesthetic that first gained popularity in the early 2000s and is now making a comeback.
When in doubt, toss on a pair of black everyday sunglasses. These rounded Max Mara frames are a perfect addition to your daily outfit.
You see the word Swarovski and immediately think of crystals. These large square shades deliver on the brand's promise with crystal-lined frames that are both eye-catching and subtle.
Pretty and polarized in pink—these Coach sunglasses are a simple way to add a soft, feminine touch to any summer outfit.
With their dramatic, angular cat-eye shape and warm tortoiseshell frame, I can easily picture these Saint Laurent sunglasses—40 percent off, by the way!—paired with a sleek white sundress and tan sandals.
According to top-tier designers like Isabel Marant, Chloé, and Gucci, plaid prints, lace-adorned designs, and royal shades of purple are poised to rise in popularity this upcoming season. Other styles like sculpted silhouettes and wild animal prints are also gaining traction. And thankfully, Nordstrom’s Anniversary Sale has everything I could possibly need to master fall’s highly anticipated trends—without breaking the bank.
While scouring the retailer’s site, I spotted a range of coveted deals like a checkered blazer for $37, a sheer blouse adorned with floral embroidery for $25, and a pair of fierce leopard-print heels priced under $100.
Ahead, discover a curated edit of discounted fall trends that you’ll soon see everywhere. If something catches your eye, I’d suggest you act quickly. Nordstrom's annual sale runs from now until Sunday, August 3, so time is of the essence!
Fall Fashion Trends at Nordstrom (At a Glance)
- Victorian Elegance
- Plaid All Over
- Regal Shades of Purple
- Sculpted Silhouettes
- Running Wild
Victorian Elegance
For the fall season, designers are ushering in a neo-Victorian era by way of polished styles stitched with dainty lace and sheer fabric. Embrace the charming look with embroidered maxi dresses, gauzy tops, and floaty skirts.
Plaid All Over
Fashion’s quintessential fall print has come out to play! I’m talking about none other than plaid. The grid-like pattern found its way into the collections of Calvin Klein, Bally, and Isabel Marant. Add the look to your autumn wardrobe with the checkered styles below.
Regal Shades of Purple
According to labels such as Altuzarra, Gucci, and Sergio Hudson, purple is the must-know color trend of fall 2025. Explore the rich hue with soft shades of lilac and lavender, or champion a bolder look with deep tones of violet and plum.
Sculpted Silhouettes
Brands like Saint Laurent and Alaïa are experimenting with curved constructions that flaunt a whimsical appeal. Try the look for yourself with a fit-and-flare bubble dress or a cinched blazer that boasts an hourglass shape.
Running Wild
From leopard spots to zebra stripes, a variety of animal prints emerged across the Fall 2025 runways of Versace, Zimmerman, and Balmain. Join the wild side with the free-spirited styles ahead, including thigh-grazing mini dresses, pointy mesh heels, and flared jeans.
Unlike traditional formulas—which are often filled with drying alcohols—hair perfumes are formulated to be gentle on strands and can even include added hair benefits, Gil Clavien, DSM-Firmenich perfumer, explains. This means you can find ingredients like "conditioning agents, UV protection, or even antioxidants, for a more holistic haircare meets fragrance experience,” he says.
From first-hand experience, I can vouch that hair perfumes add an edge to your fragrance routine, making your signature scent narrative fully unique. They're a perfect (and unexpected) way to play with layering or curating a scent profile, and the best part is that they oftentimes don't cost as much as their traditional perfume counterparts.
If you’ve been on the hunt for a hair perfume that will elevate your fragrance routine, I’ve tested pretty much every scent on the market. Keep reading for the 12 hair perfumes that are worth your attention.
The Best Hair Perfumes
- The Best Hair Perfume Overall: Matiere Premiere Crystal Saffron Hair Perfume
- The Best Timeless Hair Perfume: Frederic Malle Portrait of a Lady Hair Mist
- The Best Musky Hair Perfume: Initio Musk Therapy Hair Perfume
- The Best Floral Hair Perfume: Parfums de Marly Delina Hair Mist
- The Best Beach Hair Perfume: Diptyque Do Son Hair Mist
Crystal Saffron has become my holy grail scent from Matiere Premiere, so of course, the hair perfume had to make this list. Centered around saffron oil from Greece, this fragrance is warm, slightly leathery, and has a soft molecular hint thanks to ambroxan and habanolide musk. I would technically consider this a skin scent—a fragrance designed to smell like a natural extension of your own scent—this version adapts to that intimacy for your hair. It's the perfect unisex fragrance to share with a partner (or not).
Key Notes: Saffron
Size: 2.5 fl. oz
What I Love: Reduced in alcohol content from the original, so it's safer for hair; Simple yet refined scent; Wonderful atomizer for even scent distribution without making hair wet; Smells identical to the eau de parfum
What I Don’t: Can be hard to find in person, so may have to blind buy
Review for MC: “This is another one of those hair perfume options that I love to spray on my body from time to time. Crystal Safrron is my favorite scent from Matiere Premiere, so adding the hair mist to my collection is my equivalent of basically showering in the scent. Yes, I’ve sprayed the eau de parfum and extrait formulas on my body and used the hair perfume all at once. Don’t judge me. I smelled really good.” — Ariel Baker, Beauty Writer
I considered renaming this category to 'the most-complimented hair perfume,' because, without a doubt, they pour in whenever I apply this scent to my hair. The cult favorite fragrance, Portrait of a Lady, is reimagined in a hair perfume with its notes that read equal parts floral and woody without veering too much into either category. The notes lean heavily on Turkish rose, balanced by rich, earthy scents of sandalwood, patchouli, and frankincense. The intensity of this perfume is not to be taken lightly, though—just one spritz lingers in my hair from day to night.
Key Notes: Rose; Patchouli; Sandalwood; Frankincense
Size: 1.7 fl oz
What I Love: Sweet, yet not cloying scent profile; Beast-mode projection
What I Don’t: Some may find the projection to be a bit too much for a hair perfume
Review for MC: “This hair perfume could almost be worn as a stand-alone fragrance with how strong it is. In fact, that’s a hack I recommend to people who may want to try the eau de parfum formula but don’t want to commit to the price tag. The hair perfume offers a similar set of notes and is specifically made for our strands, but that’s never stopped me from spraying this all over my body. It’s that good.” — Ariel Baker, Beauty Writer
One of my favorite musk perfumes of all time is the aptly named Musk Therapy from Initio. So you can imagine my excitement when the brand launched it as a hair perfume. It carries the same clean, uplifting scent—thanks to notes like mandarin and bergamot—but it eventually melts into a milky, creamy blend that creates a delightful scent bubble, especially when layered with the matching perfume.
Key Notes: Bergamot; Mandarin; White magnolia; White musk, Rose musk
Size: 1.6 fl. oz
What I Love: Fresh without feeling masculine; Soft milky dry down
What I Don’t: This option doesn’t last as long as others on the list
Review for MC: “The new Musk Therapy hair perfume has become a fast favorite in my collection. It has that same slightly citrusy opening as the original eau de parfum but to me, it gets that iconic musky and slightly lactonic base much quicker, which I love. I’ve been pairing it with the perfume and matching body lotion, and this is what I imagine a cloud smells like—clean, ethereal, and super comforting.” — Ariel Baker, Beauty Writer
Delina is one of the few floral perfumes I've found that consistently gets compliments across the board, which is why I feel confident calling it the best floral hair perfume on the market. Turkish rose, lychee, vanilla, and musk are just a few of the notes that come together to create this truly spectacular scent. It's light yet impactful, with a soft, velvety base of cashmere wood that leaves just the right hint of warmth on your hair as the day goes on. And if you're someone who loves a fragrance that earns compliments, trust me: you will be stopped multiple times a day and told how amazing you smell. You've been warned.
Key Notes: Turkish rose; Lychee; Rhubarb; Vanilla; Musk; Cashmeran
Size: 2.5 fl. oz
What I Love: Floral without being too photorealistic; Extremely feminine scent
What I Don’t: Atomizer can be a bit wonky and spray extremely large droplets, so make sure to spray an arm's length away from your freshly styled hair
Review for MC: “This hair perfume is the epitome of feminine, so if you’re someone who naturally gravitates toward floral or adjacent scents, this option is for you. The rose note is flanked by others that are fruity and warm, so it doesn’t smell like a fresh-picked flower, but more like a loved one who knows how to layer a rose perfume really well. Soft, sweet, and super comforting.” — Ariel Baker, Beauty Writer
One of Diptyque's most popular scents, Do Son, is also available as a hair perfume—and it’s basically what a romantic walk on the beach, bottled. Fresh tuberose mingles with jasmine and a subtle marine accord to create a fragrance that says, “I like you, but I’m not trying too hard.” It’s coy, sexy, and super intriguing—the kind of scent that lingers just enough to keep people curious. One sniff and you’ll keep coming back for more.
Key Notes: Tuberose; Jasmine; Marine accord
Size: 1 fl. oz
What I Love: Airy floral that smells elegant; Great for year-round wear
What I Don’t: Some say it smells a little like chemicals
Review for MC: “Floral lovers, rejoice. This perfume is airy and sweet, with a surprising amount of lasting power. The unexpected marine note adds an intriguing twist to the scent profile. Whether you’re a die-hard Do Son lover or a newbie to the collection, with this hair perfume coming in at less than $100, it’s a wonderful way to try out the popular Diptyque scent without breaking the bank.” — Ariel Baker, Beauty Writer
This Gisou hair perfume has gone viral multiple times for a reason. It's infused with the brand's signature honey-floral scent, made with sustainably sourced Mirsalehi honey from Gisou's own bee garden in the Netherlands, and also contains argan oil to give hair a glossy, luxurious shine that lasts all day. The original version (featured here) leans fresh and floral, but it also comes in two other scent iterations: Lavender Berry (a fruity floral) and Wild Rose (a warm floral), so there's an option no matter your vibe.
Key Notes: Apricot; Mandarin; Spring Flowers; Mirsalehi Honey
Size: 1.7 fl. oz
What I Love: Gorgeous packaging; Leaves hair looking healthy and shiny
What I Don’t: Some find that the scent doesn’t last very long
Customer Review: “I love this! It smells so good, kinda like a citrusy scent, which is perfect for summer. I saw it as I was walking out of Sephora and immediately bought it online right away.” — Sephora
I’ve long said this is a hidden gem in the Francis Kurkdijan line, and the hair perfume might be even more underrated. On first spritz, you get a burst of airy, fresh aldehydes (fragrance ingredients that add a soapy, clean-smelling scent) and bright Italian bergamot, followed by soft florals like jasmine, all grounded by a warm base of sandalwood and white musks. The light addition of castor oil adds a touch of moisture to the hair, and the fact that it's housed in the iconic Maison Francis Kurkdjian glass bottle makes it just as luxe on your shelf as it is in your hair.
Key Notes: Aldehydes; Bergamot; Jasmine; White musk
Size: 2.4 fl oz
What I Love: Fresh, almost soapy scent; Chic glass bottle packaging
What I Don’t: One of the more expensive options on this list
Customer Review: “Simple clean skin fragrance notes with a hint of white florals. Perfect to wear anywhere anytime.” — Bloomingdales
A slightly green, powdery rose unfolds alongside soft musk notes in this gorgeous take on Dior's popular Rose Kabuki eau de parfum. The hair perfume comes in a miniature version of the original bottle, distinguished by its frosted glass, unlike the clear glass used for the regular perfumes. A luxurious addition to any fragrance collection, this mist is especially perfect for those who prefer aromatic florals that smell more skin-like and offer longer wear.
Key Notes: Sheer Rose; Musk
Size: 1.35 fl oz
What I Love: Small enough to throw into a purse for easy re-application; Rose note has a transparency to it that almost gives it a dewy feeling, like the flower after it rains
What I Don’t: A part of the private collection, so you can only buy from select retailers
Customer Review: “Second time buying Rose Kabuki hair perfume because I love the scent so much. I always get compliments when I use it in my hair.” — Dior
When I want a slightly lighter hair perfume (and want to indulge in one of my favorite fragrance notes of all time), I reach for Josie Maran’s Vanilla Vibezzz body mist. It’s not an overwhelmingly gourmand scent profile, but the combination of juniper berries and vanilla bean somehow comes across as creamy, yet a little citrus-like in my hair. I usually reach for it when I'm wearing a vanilla-based perfume, so the combination becomes nothing short of delicious.
Key Notes: Vanilla; Juniper Berries; Cedarwood
Size: 3.3 fl. oz
What I Love: Warm, spicy scent but not headache-inducing; Fragrance comes from natural ingredients
What I Don’t: Some people find the woody notes to overpower the others
Customer Review: “This product smells like heaven! It smells just like warm vanilla. This perfume is like a milky consistency, but it does not stain clothes. I also love that the packaging is cute too!” — Sephora
I’ve found that I don’t typically gravitate toward classic citrus scents, but this hair perfume from Byredo is what I like to call the best citrus-adjacent hair perfume on the market. Bright notes like lemon, bergamot, and neroli open things up, but they're softened by florals like violet and jasmine at the heart. The real magic happens in the dry down, where black amber, musk, vetiver, and Moroccan cedarwood come together to create a scent that smells like a well-traveled woman who somehow knows everyone, everywhere. Can I manifest my future using a hair perfume? I'm certainly trying.
Key Notes: Bergamot; Lemon; African marigold; Black amber; Musk
Size: 2.5 fl oz
What I Love: Feels like an easy introduction into the popular niche fragrance house; Elegant atomizer experience that provides uniform fragrance droplets
What I Don’t: One of the more popular Byredo scents, so it doesn’t feel like a curated signature find
Customer Review: “Well, had a little splurge on this, as the body lotion was out of stock and I do like to layer up whichever scent I’m wearing. Bal d’Afrique is one of my favorites. This hair spritz delivers the scent well and adds another layer that lingers in the air or should that be hair around you. Always asked what perfume I’m wearing when I use this and complimented on it.” — Bloomingdales
If you’ve been on fragrance TikTok, you’ve likely come across Super Milk, Lush’s viral leave-in conditioner. Well, the product was so popular that the brand brought it back in a glitter spray that can be used for the hair and body. The shimmer is subtle, so it’s safe for regular wear, but more importantly, the scent is divine. Think lemon cookies dipped in a vanilla drizzle that just gets sweeter as the day goes on.
Key Notes: Benzoin; Vanilla; Citrus Notes
Size: 8.4 fl oz
What I Love: Huge amount of product per bottle; Scent wears gorgeously throughout the day
What I Don’t: Have to wash your hair regularly, otherwise the glitter will build up
Customer Review: “I came across this spray at random. It was one of the last few left, and after smelling it, I just knew immediately that I needed it. I bought it with no hesitation, and I do not regret it at all. It smells delicious and nostalgic, like a bowl of Fruit Loops, honestly. I hope this product is here to stay!” — Lush
You know that chic body care brand that all the pilates girls are obsessed with? That’s Salt & Stone. Known mostly for its elevated deodorants, the brand also makes fragrance mists for the hair and body, and this one in Saffron and Cedar is easily my favorite. Warm, woody, and subtly spicy, the saffron and cedarwood combo smells like quiet luxury in a bottle. It's also infused with glycerin and red algae to keep your hair and skin feeling soft, hydrated, and never sticky. I want my entire life—not just my hair—to smell just like this.
Key Notes: Saffron; Jasmine; Cedarwood
Size: 3.4 fl oz
What I Love: Wonderful everyday option; Includes skincare- and hair-friendly ingredients
What I Don’t: Narrow spray nozzle makes me have to spray a ton to feel like the scent is evenly distributed
Customer Review: “I love this fragrance mist. The scent is very subtle and comforting, and not overbearing. I like that it feels good on my skin and the scent lasts a good while.” — Sephora
Are Hair Perfumes Good for Hair?
They might smell like a luxury, but hair perfumes can actually be an extension of your fragrance routine or even double as haircare—if you choose the right one. “Hair perfumes go beyond scent,” Clavien says. “They can hydrate, smooth, add shine, and even protect hair from UV rays or pollution.” Some formulas even double as lightweight leave-in treatments while enhancing the overall fragrance experience (much like the Lush spray).
That said, not all hair perfumes are created equal. “Look for low or alcohol-free formulas to help prevent dryness,” Clavien adds. That's why you can't just put a regular perfume meant for your skin in your hair—traditional fragrances are alcohol-heavy, and these can strip moisture from your strands over time, especially if used regularly. A gentler formula will still give you a lasting scent without compromising the health of your hair. Clavien recommends looking for nourishing ingredients like aloe vera or silk proteins to give your hair an added boost.
Do Hair Perfumes Last?
Hair perfumes are lighter than traditional eau de parfums—you know, the classic fragrances you apply to your skin—but that doesn't mean they disappear instantly, especially if you apply them correctly. “Spray from a slight distance on the mid-lengths and ends,” says Amélie Huynh, chief executive officer of D'Orsay. “Avoid your roots and don’t rub it in. Let the scent sit and blend with your hair’s natural movement as the day goes on.”
To get the most out of your hair perfume, apply it as the final step in your routine onto clean, dry, and freshly styled hair. The natural movement of your hair will help diffuse the scent throughout the day.
Why Trust Marie Claire?
For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.
How We Tested
To compile this list of the best hair perfumes, I scoured the internet and combed through countless customer reviews to find the top-rated options on the market, then tested over 25 to narrow this list down to the best 12. I also asked the Marie Claire team to share their holy grail picks.
For each hair perfume I tested, I assessed the fragrance's notes, how long it lasted, and its overall scent as the day went on.
Meet the Experts
]]>As you know, the fashion cycle moves fast. Even I was shocked to see my peers working on fall fashion stories already (we're only in July!). Regardless, I'm soaking up all the summer sun I can get, and my shopping list reflects that. With this temperate Southern California weather, I have a feeling the heat will creep into the early fall months, which means pieces like capris, breezy skirts, and tank tops will get a few more months of wear.
Thankfully, my favorite retailers seem to be getting the memo, releasing everything from cool new swimwear to tops to sneakers (hi, adidas!). For accessories, Dorsey's new Paracord II collection and Heaven Mayhem's sophisticated beaded jewelry have seriously caught my attention. In short: If colorful statement pieces, It-Girl bags, fun sneakers, and elevated basics are your jam—and you prefer to stay within an under-$100 budget—you're in the right place. Scroll on to shop just that.
The polka dots!
I love this new silhouette from Le Specs.
I'm not totally sold on capris yet, but these might just convince me.
Beaded necklaces are my current obsession. Style them with any simple outfit for an immediate upgrade.
This colorful gingham feels perfect for late-summer days by the pool.
I can't wait to get my hands on these.
I've swapped all my denim shorts for athletic pairs.
The draping perfectly elevates this butter-yellow basic.
The Row tote vibes (IYKYK), but make it under $100.
These are so good.
The orange-sherbet shade screams summer.
Perfectwhitetee makes the softest, best-fitting basics. Better yet, they're available on Amazon.
I can't believe this gingham Gap x Dôen dress is still in stock in all sizes.
Another cute, slightly elevated basic.
It's pendant season.
White, flowy skirts all summer long.
This suede east-west bag comes in so many classic shades, but I love the banana color for late-summer and early-fall dressing.
I'd be more excited to run errands if I was wearing this cute workout dress.
Clear heels are on the come up.
Perfect!
The tomato red shade is stunning.
J.Crew's summer selection has been hitting lately—take this pretty top as proof.
Love.
The square-neck silhouette is *chefs kiss*.
These are an under-$50 favorite.
Adidas continues to reimagine its classic Samba style, this time with ruffled stripes and a sleek gel sole.
The mixed metals look so luxe and are sure to elevate any outfit.
I have a feeling this Zara top is going to sell out fast.
My go-to summer outfit includes a denim skirt and flats.
The flats in question.
TIE A LARGE, TRIANGLE-SHAPED SCARF AROUND YOUR WAIST:
I’ll admit, I was a little skeptical when I saw this trick make its way across the internet. Once I saw it used in the most recent Dries Van Noten menswear show (similar to a beachy pareo) and on Emma, Marie Claire’s fashion features editor, at work one day, I was sold. So simple and so incredibly cool.
LOAD UP ON THE JEWELRY:
The more skin you’re showing, the more room you have for piles and piles of jewelry. None of that taking one thing off before you leave the house stuff over here. Add! Add! Add! Necklaces, anklets, bracelets—the more the better. And mix metals, beads, and materials while you’re at it. To me, this just screams “summer!”
USE A BUTTON-UP TO ADD INTEREST TO YOUR LOOK:
If you don’t follow Amy Smilovic on Substack, you’re really missing out. Especially when it comes to her posts on packing for her various travels. As I was reading this edition, I noticed tons of photos where she had a button-up shirt tied around her waist—a trick that works if you’re going from blistering heat to blasting AC. She ties it to the side, also almost like a pareo, instead of the traditional way. I can’t wait to try this one.
Reading List
First time reading Self Checkout? Catch up on the past few weeks.
The sale officially began on July 12 and runs through Aug. 3, which means you have exactly three weeks to save on your favorite luxury beauty products, from high tech hair care must-haves to cult-favorite prestige skincare.
The Best Deals So Far
- Best Skincare Tool on Sale: Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Plump, Glow & Boost Collagen Set (Was $568, now $455)
- Best Hair Tool on Sale: ghd Chronos Styler 1-Inch Flat Iron (Was $329, now $220)
Skincare Tools on Sale
This special kit includes a handful of bestsellers from Dr. Dennis Gross, from the Alpha Beta Extra Strength Daily Peel wipes to the cult-favorite LED mask that Marie Claire editor Julia Marzovilla says once helped clear her post-acne scars and reduce her breakouts overall. "My skin looks so much better after using this for the past few months, and I can't wait to see how the progress continues," she says.
This is everyone's favorite at-home dermaplaning tool for a reason: it's super-effective, easy to travel with, and simple enough for beginners to figure out. MC contributor Marisa Petrarca tested it out herself and loved it. "I use it ahead of special events when I want my skin to feel silky-smooth and my makeup to apply flawlessly, and I love that the charging base doubles as a storage solution," she says.
This LED face mask addresses uneven tone and texture while gently reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Just pop it on for ten minutes three to five times a week and you're golden.
This tool has two sides—one with a smooth finish to help relieve puffiness around the eyes, and a contoured side to help sculpt the jawline and cheekbones. Use it in the morning for a perfectly snatched face.
NuFace's microcurrent tool is known for its ability to lift and sculpt the skin, and it's even beloved by celebrities like Jennifer Aniston and Bella Hadid. This discounted kit includes the NuFace Trinity+, two microcurrent attachments, and an LED red light attachment so you can address multiple issues at once.
Use this raved-about tool to extract excess dirt and gunk from your pores when your go-to cleanser just isn't doing enough. "To me, this is the ultimate beginner-friendly device," MC contributor Danielle Cohen wrote in a previous review. "All you need is a light touch and a quick read through the instructions, it's fairly fool-proof beyond that."
You should never neglect your neck when applying makeup, but that logic should also apply to your skincare routine. Apply your favorite neck cream and use this LED light tool (it has seven colors to choose from) to massage it in while simultaneously treating fine lines, firmness, and hyperpigmentation.
Giving your face a deep clean never felt so good thanks to this soft tool that massages and gently cleanses the face with over 7,000 vibrations a minute. Use the bristled side to cleanse before flipping it over to the smooth side to help massage in your serum of choice.
Use the microneedling tool in this 2-in-1 set to address collagen production and fine lines. If puffiness is your problem, reach for the rose quartz roller.
If enlarged pores, congestion, and blemishes are your problem, use this to suction out blackheads and dirt. The experience can pretty much rival that of an in-office microdermabrasion treatment.
Hair Tools on Sale
I'll sing the praises of this flat iron every chance I get. It gets my thick, type 4 hair smooth every time I use it and it has an automatic shut-off feature that turns the tool off after ten minutes of inactivity—so no more panicking about whether or not you've unplugged your flat iron once you've already left your house.
This curling tool has a long barrel, making it extra easy to curl and style long hair.
This tool was one of our spring editor favorites thanks to its smart technology that adjusts its own heat and speed settings to your hair texture.
These hot rollers use a special color-indicating technology to help prevent you from keeping them in for too long. Simply remove the rollers from your hair once the light turns red, and you'll have bouncy, voluminous curls for days.
This curling iron is perfect for beginners, since it uses an automated technology to rotate the barrel of the iron for you. It also comes with nine temperature settings to help you control just how much heat you want to touch your tresses.
For bigger curls, reach for this tool, which has a 1 1/4-inch large barrel and has a temperature setting of 365 degrees.
Why Trust Marie Claire
For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion, and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.
]]>