Monthly Favorites: July 2021 Summer Favorites
Aw, the end of July is here. Peek summer is now coming to an end. I dread the end of July because that means summer is officially over for me. August comes along and it’s back to grind for me! August still carries over the hot July weather so a lot of my summer favorites will still be in use next month.
For July, a lot of the products I use are influenced by the Florida weather. It gets ungodly hot here in Orlando! So I have to fight my makeup from slipping off and keep my hair tame from the humidity. And while I love the outdoors, I do spend quite a bit of time indoors trying to beat the heat.
I want to share my favorite summer products and things I’ve been loving this July with you guys.
Makeup
I know I just recently posted out this but again, it’s just that good. It’s great at keeping my brows in place, it’s easy to use and can really pull together a look.
2. E.L.F Poreless Putty Primer
Primer is key in my makeup routine. I’m an oily mess so mixed with the summer heat it’s a recipe for makeup disaster! I’ve tried a TON of primers and this one from ELF is my absolute favorite. It evens out my skins texture and keeps my makeup from melting off in the summer weather. Extra points for being super affordable. Definitely a summer favorite!
3. Milani Conceal + Perfect 2 in 1 Foundation
My holy grail drugstore foundation. It beats out a lot of more “luxury” foundations in my book. This is perfect for the summer because it’s buildable but a light application can still give me great coverage.
Skincare
1. Glow Recipe PHA + BHA Pore-Tight Toner
Big Glow Recipe fan here. I love this toner, however it may not be for everyone. If you’re sensitive to fragrance then I’d steer clear of this. The BHAs help for gentle exfoliant, leaving my skin soft and glowing. And because of the BHA, a warning to avoid your eye area when applying!
Say it with me: I will use SPF everyday, not just during the summer.
I’ve been using the Elta MD SPF for several years now. I picked it up at my dermatologists office. Good thing now is that it has grown in popularity so I can pick it up from a number of online stores. Lightweight, no white cast, contains zinc oxide and great for acne prone skin, it’s the perfect SPF in my book!
3. DermaE Radiant Glow Face Oil
I’ve really been making time in the evening for my skincare routine this month. This face oil has been a constant in my routine. It leaves my skin looking plump and hydrated. Paired with a little gua sha ( always use an oil when you gua sha!) my skin is looking oh so radiant.
Honorable Skincare mention
- Not a skincare product but I have to give a shout out to a local spot, Body by Shea. I go there for my facials. A good facial is needed every once in awhile. If you’re in the central Florida area I highly suggest you check out Body by Shea. Not only are they affordable, the staff is super sweet and the environment is just so welcoming. I love the Diamond Exfoliation and Enzyme facial. However, they do offer monthly specials so I make sure to check those out. If you’re not in the Orlando area, check around your city/town for a good facial spot. Support a local small business all while pampering yourself.
Hair
1. Eva NYC Lazy Jane Air Dry Shampoo and Conditioner
I really try my best to avoid any kind of heat on my hair. I’ll only blow dry if I find myself in a situation that absolutely calls for it (ie I was lazy and running late!). 95% of the time I’m air drying my hair and the Lazy Jane shampoo and conditioner from Eva NYC is a staple.
Food
1. Trader Joe’s Cookie Butter Cookies
Uggggh, honestly if you don’t have Trader Joe’s near you I’m so sorry! I’ve been reaching for these cookies a little bit too much this month. I may or may not have picked these up EVERY trip this month. It’s not just a summer favorite, but just an all time favorite!
TV Show
1. Love Island
I like reality TV; it’s a guilty pleasure. However, I’m a bit picky with what I watch. I really can’t do American dating reality shows like the Bachelor. Love Island is where it’s at. Love Island might just be one of my favorite shows PERIOD. And it’s for sure my guilty summer favorite. I live for the summer and watching an episode everyday when it airs. Unfortunately, the US gets the episodes late but whatever! At least I can still enjoy it! Right now I’m team Faye, Liberty and Kaz!
2. My Roommate is a Gumiho
If you’re a KDrama fan and have not watched this, do it! Watch it! While it’s not a vampire romance, it gives off those forbidden vampire love vibes. Plus how handsome is the male lead? Yes please!
Books
1. Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner
Okay, I admit I haven’t finished reading this but I have a good reason. It’s emotional, raw and is hitting me right where it hurts. I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve cried whilst reading this. I read, cry and step away. If you’re Asian American this is definitely a book you should read. It was really comforting to know my struggles as a teenager where had by someone else. I felt like I was reading my own experience but through a bit of a different lens. Michelle Zauner is not only a wonderful musical artist but also a beautiful story writer.
2. Get the Fuck Out of the Sun by Lauryn Evarts Bosstick
Ugh, I love Lauryn of The Skinny Confidential. I follow her specifically for skincare advice. I mean have you seen this women’s skin?! This book is a skincare lovers dream, not to mention it looks cute on a coffee table.
With the end of summer, comes the best.. FALL
As much as I enjoy my summer break, especially with having to teach during a pandemic, I’m ready for the fall season to start rolling in. Granted, we don’t really get a fall in Florida. It’s just the vibe that I love! I love all the fall flavors, the scents and the change of wardrobe.
What’s your favorite season? Are you sad to see summer end? What have been your go-to products or items this month? I’d love to know in the comments below!
Until next time,
