The summer season calls for a simpler and more sultry approach to beauty. Helping you navigate the market in search of the perfect bronzer, bold lacquer and lustrous lip gloss, Cassandra Grey and her website The Violet Files just launched a shortlist of 29 essentials. Curated with the help of Los Angeles artists like Fiona Stiles, Jenna Hipp and Pati Dubroff and available for purchase on Violet Grey, the e-commerce arm of Grey’s super-glam website, it’s a risk and hassle-free way to get your hero kit in order before your next beach trip. Below, our favorite tips from the feature.
Shop The Edit
The Instant Tan
James Read Wash Off Tan For Body, $28
“If you don't have time to let those self-tanners work, but you still want a beautiful, even, sun kissed body, this instant body bronzing cream is perfect: Dries within minutes, goes on evenly and won't transfer onto your clothes. Unlike a gradual self-tanner, this one washes off in your next shower." —Sabrina Bedrani, Makeup Artist
The Unexpected Polish Color
RGB Nail Polish in Tropic, $18
"Traditionally, a deep green like Tropic would be reserved for colder fall months, but the unexpected depth in tone for summer feels unusually fresh. For best results, wear with all-white and a tan." —Jenna Hipp, Nail Artist
The Instant Eye Definer
Tom Ford Eye Pencil in Metallic Mink, $36
"Smudge this pencil close to the lash line. It will add a hint of bronze shimmer to the eye and deliver definition along the lashes." —Pati Dubroff, Makeup Artist
The Tan Accentuator
Laura Mercier Cheek Color in Canyon, $24
“All of Laura Mercier creme blushes are gorgeous, but Canyon is my favorite for summer. It's a perfectly, peachy-tawny tone which is a great base for bronzer or as an added pop of glow on top of a tan.” —Molly R. Stern, Makeup Artist
The Mattifier
Nars Light Reflecting Setting Powder, $35
"Summer is hot and sticky. You don't want to wear a ton of makeup, but you don't want to be shiny and sweaty either. A light translucent powder is key to tame shine and stay polished. This one doesn't load you up with pigment and is delightfully transparent." —Fiona Stiles, Makeup Artist
