How To Choose A Signature Perfume Scent In 5 Simplified Steps

best perfumes for women

Picking a perfume is personal, but that doesn't mean you have to go into the process blindly. Different scent profiles, layers of notes, and even body chemistry all play a factor in finding a truly signature fragrance, yet can be a little overwhelming to navigate with so many beautiful blends out there. Have no fear — these helpful tips will guide you through the process of finding your very own.

Set The Mood

Before you begin spritzing samplers, it's a good idea to identify what, exactly, you're looking for. Do you need a fragrance you can wear daily, to the office and out and about? Are you looking for something special for evening occasions? Or is there a specific type of scent you feel is missing from your collection? Start there.

Lake & Skye 11 11 Eau de Parfum ($98)

A beautiful everyday option that starts light and crisp but finishes with a little bit of musk.

Anine Bing Pure Noir Eau de Parfum ($169)

This sultry but sophisticated perfume will be your new date night go-to.

Chanel COCO MADEMOISELLE Eau de Parfum ($108)

When you need a boost of confidence, spritz on a little Chanel and get ready to take on the world (i.e., that big presentation or exam).

Smell The Roses Around You

Now, it's time to narrow your scent profile down — the hard part. Begin by thinking about the everyday smells you're naturally attracted to. Perhaps it's the freshness of clean linens, or the warmth of a vanilla candle that sets you at ease. Maybe you relish in a woodsy, winter breeze or smile walking past a fragrant rose bush or jasmine plant. You might prefer a tangy, citrusy smell or dark, musty whiff. Match these predilections to the occasion you're shopping for.

Heretic Dirty Vanilla Eau de Parfum ($165)

Skip the sugar-coated vanilla fragrances and tap into its warmer side with compliments of rich, creamy, and slightly spicy notes.

Maison Margiela Replica Sailing Day Eau de Toilette ($110)

If you're looking for something fresh, the aptly titled Sailing Day will instantly transport you to an oceanfront oasis.

Skylar Capri Eau de Toilette ($78)

For something a little bolder, this bright blend of citrus will give you a boost of energy with every spritz.

Pick Your Price Point

While it's fun to sample the most luxurious scents — that's all it needs to be! You can always ask for a sample or spritz on a decadent tester, but when it comes to seriously deciding on a signature scent, limit yourself to only trying the bottles within your budget, like these affordable favorites.

Gourmand Eau De Parfum Fragrance ($18)

It's hard to resist sampling the delightful array of scents from Urban Outfitters, and considering the price, they never disappoint.

OUAI Melrose Place Eau de Parfum ($56)

A best-seller that's worth the (modest) investment. Super sweet top notes finish off with richer, rosier notes that linger all day.

Pacifica Organics Natural Origins Kindred Spirit ($22)

For the truly down to earth, this affordable woodsy scent comes to life with a hint of familiar florals.

Test With Intention

Now that you have an idea of the notes and scent profiles you're looking for, try picking out a few promising options online, or finding a store associate who can point out ideas you may have missed. Spray a few on testing papers first, so you can get a sense of the top notes — but keep in mind these can wear off in minutes. Rule out the ones you don't love. Then, spray the strongest candidates on your wrist or elbow, your naturally warm pulse points that will bring out the middle and base notes. Allow those to linger while you continue shopping, or ask for a sample to wear for a few days, to see how it blends with your body chemistry.

Boy Smells Suede Pony Cologne de Parfum Fragrance ($98)

If spicy scents are calling you, try this bold blend of cardamom, violet, and suede.

Ellis Brooklyn Sweet Eau De Parfum ($90)

For a fragrance that's truly sweet, pear, violet, and marshmallow are as sugary as it gets.

19-69 Chronic Eau de Parfum ($185)

Lean into woodsy notes with this luxe mix of sage, patchouli, and cashmere wood.

Trust Your Instinct

Just because everybody's already wearing the new designer fragrance you adore, doesn't mean you have to rule it out. Fragrances will appeal uniquely to your scent profile, and interact uniquely with your skin. At the same time, don't feel the need to go in the same direction (or a completely different one) based on what other people find appealing. It's your fragrance — when you finally find love at first spritz, embrace it.

Gucci Bloom Eau de Parfum ($105)

A floral favorite, Gucci Bloom bursts with notes of jasmine, rangoon creeper, and tuberose for a rich white-floral fragrance.

Fenty Eau de Parfum (Available August 10)

A new fragrance by Rihanna means we're all about to have a new favorite.

Jo Malone London Wood Sage & Sea Salt Cologne ($144)

While this may be one of the most popular Jo Malone scents, the mix of aquatic sea salt and earthy sage always manages to feel fresh.

What's your go-to perfume? Follow us on Pinterest for more beauty inspo!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Featured image via Laura Chouette/Unsplash

From winning multiple beauty awards to garnering genuine praise online, Beyoncé's haircare brand Cécred has passed the public's test and that's why I'm so excited it's finally available at Ulta (watch their cute announcement here)! Though I love going straight to Cécred's website to shop for goodies, I love how accessible it's become for customers. Whether you've been itching to try the award-winning Hydrating Shampoo or the Restoring Hair & Edge Drops that keep selling out (they're so worth it!), Ulta's made room in over 1,400 locations and online for them!

Keep scrolling to learn more about Cécred's launch in Ulta, discover Black women's experience with the popular brand, plus see my favorite picks!

Unveiling Cécred's Launch In Ulta

Cécred

Grace Ray, the CEO of Cécred shared how excited the brand is to launch in a major beauty retailer like Ulta in a press release. She said, "Expanding into retail just one year after the launch of Cécred is a powerful testament to the efficacy of our products and the deep connection we've built with our community," (via PR Newswire). She also said, "Our partnership with Ulta Beauty and their salons enables us to bring the Cécred transformation to more consumers of all hair types and textures and experience the benefits directly with a stylist they trust. Ulta Beauty shared our vision for how the brand would come to life in retail in an unprecedented way, and we can't wait for everybody to experience this new chapter with us."

Want to know if Ulta is equally excited about the partnership? Look no further than the retailer's CEO Kecia Steelman. She told PR Newswire, "Launching Cécred exclusively at Ulta Beauty is an exciting milestone for both of us and a reflection of our commitment to partner with brands that work for everyone. From our inclusive brand assortment and best-in-class services to the passionate associates delivering unmatched experiences on our sales floor and in our salon chairs, we offer the perfect landscape to introduce this brand in a unique and engaging way."

Not only that, but Steelman says Ulta feels "honored to co-create a vision that will delight" customers and "drive success" for them as well as Cécred.

Cécred

Additionally, Ulta Beauty and Cécred are offering an exclusive salon experience for customers. Stylists will be trained on how to effectively use products to offer the following services:

  • Cécred Scalp Revival: "Creates a foundation for healthy hair with a gentle exfoliation that nourishes your scalp, removes flakes and buildup, and helps keep your hair hydrated. This service includes a signature Cécred circulation scalp massage. It can be paired with any Cécred treatment and any finished style."
  • Cécred Protein Bounceback Treatment: "Features Cécred’s Fermented Rice & Rose Protein Ritual to help strengthen hair and make it 3x more resistant to breakage. The Cécred Moisturizing Deep Conditioner ensures a perfect protein-moisture balance, deeply nourishing hair while supporting everyday wear and tear."
  • Cécred Hydration & Repair Treatment: "Repairs and restores hair weakened by color, heat, chemical services, and extensions. This service includes Cécred Reconstructing Treatment Mask, which reduces damage in just one use, and Cécred Moisturizing Deep Conditioner to deeply nourish and maintain the ideal protein-moisture balance."

Beginning May 18, Cécred Sundays will take place at a "select 200 The Salon at Ulta Beauty locations!" It'll be a recurring event catered to customers who are looking for a relaxation during their hair appointments, plus they'll receive a complimentary mini Temple Oud candle with any of the above services.

I'm all for it because Cécred's on par with brands like Design Essentials, Olaplex, Aveda, Kérastase and Mizani. It might sound biased, but I've sat in the salon chair enough times to know this isn't your average line. But don't just take my word for it.

I spoke with my community to learn more about their experience using Cécred and they were gracious enough to share their hair journeys as well as thoughts about how the haircare brand fits into their overall routine!

1. Carolyn Gray, Content Creator 

Tone Woolfe

My conversation with Caroyln felt like a huge breath of fresh air. There wasn't a need to code switch (something Black women often navigate when communicating in the workplace and otherwise) as we had an open and honest discussion about her hair journey.

"When it comes to hair, I had two amazing perspectives on two ends of the spectrum in my family. I had my grandmother on my mom's side of the family — which is Caribbean — and they were all about relaxing the hair, doing the hair, having the hair salon in the back of the house that everyone would come to. That was their perspective of having refined, relaxed, and always put together hair...Having this idea that's how hair should be," she says.

On the other hand, her grandmother in the Maryland had gorgeous locs who told Carolyn as a child, "Don't ever let them tell you that they're dreadlocks. Ain't nothing dreadful about them." Ultimately Carolyn got a chance to see one group of women who felt like afro hair or natural hair wasn't 'neat' while the other side of her family believed curly hair is beautiful in a spiritual sense.

This helped prepare Carolyn for working in the corporate side of the fashion and fitness worlds. "I had a short perm there [in fitness] and was spoken to about what types of hair was acceptable on the sales floor or not. I started relaxing my hair in high school because it took my mom hours to manage my hair in its natural state and she fell into 'It's just easier for me this way without having to always go to the hair salon,' thing."

Her relaxer lasted from ages 14 until 27, but she's always played around with colors, short cuts, weaves, and even made her own wigs at one point. Though she knew there was a stigma around natural hair, she's always made it a point to have fun no matter what hairstyle she has.

Denise Stephanie Hewitt

So when Beyoncé announced the launch of Cécred, Carolyn didn't hesitate to send the news to her hairstylist to see how she felt. Her hairstylist's response? "I'm gonna buy the [super] fan bundle! Whatever bundle there is, I'm buying it!."

Carolyn says, "Initially I wanted to get her perspective to see if this would be something to try on my hair. Like, what did she think about the legacy of Beyoncé and her affair with hair as well as her mother's history as a hairstylist." She also reminded me that fans were able to catch a glimpse of Cécred's formulas on a table in her documentary for Renaissance. "I was like, 'what is this gold liquid thing on that table,'" she recalls excitedly.

"I didn't have any negative feeling about it because her mom has been a hairstylist. She [Beyoncé] has to wear weaves and color and I always wondered how she maintained her hair. I also thought how she cares for her hair with all the performing and the things she has to do," she says.

Concerning all of the negative thoughts about Cécred and Beyoncé's hair, Carolyn admits that she was thoroughly surprised at what some people were saying. She actually experienced said negativity in person when she was a part of a panel about Black beauty, but this didn't change her excitement about trying Cécred.

"I feel like my hair looks really healthy and I find that I've had less hair breakage since I've been using it. The reality is that I feel this hair care collection — the entire collection — is replacing the other products I used to maintain my blonde hair and the health of my hair."

She took care to mention that she believes Cécred is on par with Olaplex and K18. "I haven't had as much dandruff either because of that scrubbing shampoo [Clarifying Shampoo & Scalp Scrub]. Good Lord, what kind of scrub is that," she says with a laugh. Her only initial gripe is that she wasn't a fan of the shampoo's scent because she has a sensitive nose, but she barely notices it now.

You can watch her full review of Cécred on YouTube.

2. Brittany Waugh, Beauty Content Creator

Brittany Waugh/Instagram

Brittany's hair journey is one that's void of putting chemicals in her hair. She says, "I grew up with a mom who prioritized healthy haircare. I spent the majority of my early childhood in natural hairstyles, only getting press and curls for holidays." The reason for is this is that her mom didn't want her to have damage from coloring her hair or relying on relaxers like she did. Brittany admits, "Even to this day, I am scared to use chemicals."

However, she used to experience pressure to alter her hair growing up. "I wear wigs often, but also wear my hair in a natural pineapple updo to the gym for convenience. In my house growing up, a new hairstyle every week or every two weeks was mandatory, so I have adopted that. However, as I get older, I don't feel as pressured to do this, but more so changing my hair for my enjoyment and wearing it how I feel comfortable."

Now that Cécred is on the market, Brittany shares that she was a little wary about trying the brand's products for personal reasons. "While I was of course excited because it was coming from Beyoncé, I am a person who rarely changes my routine. When I find products that work for me, unless something spectacular comes along and changes my mind, I stick with the products I know work for me."

She's gone on to embrace the brand and says, "I can truly tell that the entire line was well-produced and developed. I am someone who mutually deals with psoriasis similar to Beyonce, so finding products that help with that flare-up is rare. Their Clarifying Shampoo & Scalp Scrub with the Deep Conditioner have helped my scalp and hair more than the products I have been accustomed to."

She shared a brief BTS clip of her admiring Cécred's packaging along with a glimpse of her natural curls on TikTok!

3. Chelsea Hightower, Compensation Professional 

Chelsea Hightower

As long as I've known Chelsea, she's always worn her natural hair, and it never occurred to me to ask how she ever felt about it until now. "Growing up, I struggled to fully embrace my natural hair. Being a lifelong natural, I've mostly worn my hair in its natural state. However, as kids, our initial hairstyle choices often reflect our parents' or caretakers' preferences rather than our own," she reflects.

She also says, "My mom chose not to relax my hair when I was young, which greatly influenced my acceptance of my natural hair. However, for a long time, my choice was more influenced by circumstance than by preference. I found myself yearning for relaxed, straight hair, despite my mom’s efforts to encourage me to love my natural curls."

No matter how much her mom encouraged her, it was hard to not be influenced by what she was seeing. Chelsea says, "Most of the women and girls I knew had relaxers, including my mom and eventually my older sister. Despite receiving compliments and praise for my beautiful natural hair, I was still swayed by the prevailing trend of relaxed hair. It wasn't until 9th grade when my mom allowed me to relax my hair that I truly understood and appreciated my natural hair. That single experience of having my hair relaxed was enough to make me realize that I never wanted to do it again—I was mortified by how unnaturally straight and stiff it made my hair feel. I knew I’d be a natural girl for life after that!"

As much as she loves her hair, Chelsea admits that it hasn't always been easy to embrace it in a professional setting due to her own feelings about how she might be perceived. "While no one has explicitly told me to change or straighten my hair, I've felt an internal pressure. With a doctorate in Industrial-Organizational Psychology, where I've delved into research on fairness in the workplace and hiring practices, I've come across studies highlighting unconscious biases against people of color based on characteristics like hair," she shares.

Much of her studies and research revealed shocking documented evidence of the biases that POC face due to our hair, definitely playing a role in some of that pressure to conform. She's not afraid to admit that she even made the decision to wear her hair differently when interviewing for her first post-doctorate role. "This concern led me to wear a natural slick-back for some interviews, but for others, I opted for a straight-haired bob wig. Many Black women joke about the 'bait and switch' tactic of wearing a wig or weave for interviews and then revealing their natural hair once hired. That's essentially what I did. Now that I've secured my job, I feel more at ease wearing my natural hair. However, during the interview process, I felt the need to mitigate potential biases by altering my hairstyle."

Chelsea Hightower

When I asked her to share her unfiltered thoughts about using Cécred on her curls, Chelsea eagerly shared how her routine has changed since using the brand's products. "I was really impressed with the Cécred line when I first tried it out. I wanted to minimize bias as much as possible, so I made a conscious effort not to let my admiration for Beyoncé as an entertainer influence my perception of her hair products," she says.

This led her to compare Cécred with another hair care line she frequently uses. "I conducted a side-by-side comparison of Cécred and the other brand to judge Cécred’s performance fairly and without bias...the results spoke for themselves. The curls on the side of my hair treated with Cécred appeared shinier and had better definition on Day 2 compared to the side treated with the other brand. I shared my full wash day comparison on social media, and others agreed with my conclusion that Cécred outperformed the other brand." You can watch her comparison video on Instagram!

Ironically, Chelsea immediately loved the scent of Cécred's products, differing from Carolyn's experience. "Being a scent enthusiast, I appreciate the subtly perfumed fragrance of the products. My favorite product from day one has been the Reconstructing Treatment Mask. Everything about it, from its consistency and scent to the softness it imparts to my hair, is *chefs kiss*! This product recently won the 2024 Women's Health Beauty Award for Best Hair Mask, confirming its quality. It's definitely a product worth trying!"

The only issue she has right now is that she wishes the brand offered more styling products, but we'll see what happens as the year unfolds! Knowing Beyoncé and team Cécred, we could see even more surprises unfold this year. They're already scored huge by being in Ulta, so there's no telling what's next!

My Favorite Cécred Picks Found At Ulta

Ulta

Hydrating Shampoo

If a shampoo claims to be hydrating, I'm all over it because my hair's texture craves moisture. While I wasn't sure what to expect from Cécred's Hydrating Shampoo, I cleared my mind of any preconceived fan bias I may have had prior to using it.

The first thing I noticed is how my coils immediately became bouncy after washing the first section of my hair. That's always my first clue that wash day will go well, so I was excited when that happened.

By the time I finished using the shampoo, my hair was bouncy and incredibly soft.

P.S. It has a slight fragrance, but I actually like it!

Ulta

Hydrating Conditioner

I don't alway use a conditioner after washing my hair, but I wanted to try Cécred's Hydrating Conditioner to see if it paired well with the Hydrating Shampoo. Once again, I applied the product to each section of my hair and let it saturate my strands for five minutes. Once I rinsed it out, I became convinced that I'd found new staples for my wash day.

Ulta

Reconstructing Treatment Mask

I love applying hair masks because they give my coils extra TLC, but this Reconstructing Treatment option has put my regular go-to products to shame. It has Cécred's "patent-pending Bioactive Keratin Ferment" in it which helps pump the brakes on damage and improve hair's overall shine.

I honestly didn't notice if my hair seemed shinier after using this, but I didn't notice as much shedding once I rinsed it out. That's a huge plus for me!

Ulta

Restoring Hair & Edge Drops

Last but not least, Cécred's Restoring Hair & Edge Drops have earned the hype in my opinion. Unlike other serums or growth oils, its texture isn't super thick. In fact, it almost has a watery consistency so you don't need a lot. It doesn't burn and feels like you're applying something handmade by God.

In other words, it feels really good and makes you want to cradle the bottle after you're done making sure your scalp isn't neglected.

My Final Thoughts About Cécred

Jasmine Williams

Whether I'm wearing my natural hair or protective styles, I value using great products to care for my hair no matter what style I'm wearing. As a Black woman, I've faced criticism for having relaxed hair, a pixie cut, braids, sew-ins and more, so I can only imagine how it feels to have Beyoncé's status and watch others decide you're not well-versed enough to have a haircare line.

However, I've searched through hundreds of comments on Cécred's Instagram and there's an overflow of examples of how well the brand works on a variety of hair textures. From people who suffer from alopecia or are looking for products that keep their hair moisturized, Cécred is keeping customers in mind.

P.S. I still can't believe how bouncy and soft it made my coils. The proof is literally in the pudding of the shampoo and restoration mask, so I highly recommend using it!

Cécred's 'A Deeper Understanding Of Hair' Campaign

Wieden+Kennedy for Cécred

Just when Cécred couldn't get any better, they decided to parter with the popular creative company Wieden+Kennedy to also launch a new campaign called A Deeper Understanding of Hair!" A dedicated video on Instagram dives into Cécred's manifesto and it sums up how inclusive the brand is. From specialized hair treatments to the immortal silk press, the brand knows that hair tells a story.

Hair isn't uniform and should never be treated as such. I love that Carolyn, Brittany, and Chelsea dove into their varying experiences and upbringings to share how it all helped shape the way they approach their hair today. I'm also a huge fan of the way they separately champion Black women, giving themselves and others permission to truly love their hair — natural texture and all — without succumbing to the idea that they have to fit into a certain beauty standard.

And while this could all come together without Cécred, isn't it wonderful the way Beyoncé's brought us all together? (And made our hair look and feel good while doing it?) I think so, too!

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated.

The 1923 season finale probably left you with a lot of emotions and a few questions thanks to its emotional end. Namely: Is there a season 3 of 1923 coming out? Here's everything we know about whether there will be a third installment of Taylor Sheridan's hit show. Plus, the other Yellowstone spinoffs you can look forward to!

Here's everything you need to know about whether 1923 season 3 is coming.

Is there a season 3 of 1923 coming out?

Paramount+ hasn't officially confirmed or denied that 1923 season 3 is coming, but it sounds like season 2 was the final installment.

“It’s bookend," Brandon Sklenar told The Hollywood Reporter in 2023. “It’s still limited, but I think of it as one piece — there’s just a split in the middle, but it’s all one piece. It will conclude.”

Taylor Sheridan also called 1923 a two-part narrative in an interview with Deadline. So it looks like the 1923 season finale is also a series finale!

Who's in the 1923 season 3 cast?

Emerson Miller/Paramount+

If there was a world in which we got a 1923 season 3, I'm sure we'd see the return of three of our favorites:

  • Harrison Ford as Jacob Dutton: owner and protector of the Yellowstone ranch.
  • Helen Mirren as Cara Dutton: Jacob's wife and partner.
  • Brandon Sklenar as Spencer Dutton: Jacob's nephew and John's father.

What happened to Alex and Spencer in 1923?

The end of 1923 saw Alex (Julia Schlaepfer) give birth to another Dutton baby (all but confirmed to be John Dutton II, the father of Kevin Costner's John Dutton III) before succumbing to the effects of hypothermia. She dies in Spencer's (Brandon Sklenar) arms, and he goes off with Jacob (played by Harrison Ford) to enact revenge on Donald Whitfield. The Duttons kill Whitfield (Timothy Dalton) and set his home on fire.

And as the narration from Isabel May's Elsa Dutton tells us, Spencer never married again. And 45 years later, he lies at her grave and seemingly passes away. The very end of 1923 reunites the couple in a dreamy, heavenly party where they can dance together forever.

Julia told USA Today how special is was for her that Alex got a spot in the Dutton graveyard, saying, "It's such an honor. I know that everyone will be so upset about being a part of the Dutton family cemetery."

What is the next series after 1923?

There are a few TV shows you can watch after 1923, but there are also some more Yellowstone spinoffs on their way!

  • The Madison follows a New York family who now live in central Montana's Madison River valley. The cast includes Michelle Pfeiffer, Patrick J. Adams, Elle Chapman, and Beau Garrett.
  • A spinoff about Yellowstone's Rip and Beth is in development.
  • 1944is also in development, and is sure to show off the Yellowstone ranch the tail end of World War II. We're sure to see the return of Spencer Dutton and John Dutton II, just played by different characters.

Um, Julia Schlaepfer Told Us Spencer & Alex Would "Barely" Reunite Before '1923' Season 2 Premiered

When I'm not searching for outfit ideas, I'm usually browsing the many beauty Substack newsletters I'm subscribed to. But nothing will ever beat all the goodies I typically find during Sephora's Savings Event. It's one of the few times I'm able to score big on lip oils, niacinamide serums, and curly hair products without spending over $300. Plus, the perks of being an Insider, VIB or Rouge member are SO worth it.

Keep scrolling to find the best beauty skincare, makeup, hair and nail picks from Sephora's Savings Event!

When does the Sephora Savings Event start?

Sephora

Starting today, Insiders who are a part of Sephora's loyalty program will get a chance to score big on their favorite items. It's free, so you can join today!

Here's the full dates for the sale:

  • Rouge: 04/04 — 04/14 (spend $1000/year)
  • VIB: 04/08 — 04/14 (spend $350/year
  • Insider: 04/08 — 04/14 (free tier)

How much can I save per tier?

Sephora

Depending on your Insider tier, you can save up to 30!

  • Rouge: 20% off
  • VIB: 15% off
  • Insiders: 10% off
  • Sephora Collection: 30% off

What code should I use at checkout?

Sephora

Don't forget to use the code SAVEMORE when you're ready to checkout!

The Best Skincare Buys From Sephora's Sale

Sephora

Dieux Deliverance Antioxidant & Niacinamide Serum

If you've been dealing with hormonal acne that's left you with inflamed skin or dark spots, we know how frustrating that can be. But you don't have to suffer in silence with skincare like Dieux's Deliverance Antioxidant & Niacinamide Serum exists. Not only does it treat the aforementioned concerns, but it's also good for minimizing pores and treating uneven skin tone!

Sephora

KORA Organics Milky Mushroom Ultra-Hydrating Mask

I like my skincare like I love my coffee alternatives — full of mushrooms! Even if you have oily or combination skin, hydration's still a good area to focus on. We love recommend KORA Organics' Milky Mushroom Ultra-Hydrating Mask because it targets dry areas while providing a healthy dose of Vitamin C!

Sephora

Tower 28 Beauty S.O.S Daily Rescue Facial Spray

We love Tower 28 Beauty's S.O.S. Daily Rescue Facial Spray so much that we wrote about it in 2023! It feels like a toner and serum in a bottle because it immediately soothes any allergic reactions we may having. Itchy skin due to pesky breakouts? You'll want to use this. Red or splotchy skin that's triggered by an allergic reaction? This spray won't let you down.

Sephora

Birthday Cake

Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm

Juicy lips are always in, but we know it's hard to narrow down what to invest in. We prefer Summer Friday's Lip Butter Balm because you're able to choose from various shades and your lips will be protected from painful cracks that may pop up throughout the day.

Sephora

The INKEY List Caffeine De-puffing + Dark Circle Eye Cream

Eye creams are our life savers even if we haven't had a rough night! It's unfair, but everyone starts losing the collagen underneath their eyes at a point which makes dark circles rear their head. To combat that, use The INKEY List's Caffeine De-puffing + Dark Circle formula!

Sephora

Berry

LANEIGE Lip Sleeping Mask

If you want extra pillow-soft & kissable lips, we suggest using LANEIGE's Lip Sleeping Mask. Formulated without parabens, your pout will remain hydrated and protected with every use of this. It's so good that it's been ranked as a "community favorite" on Sephora!

Sephora

innisfree Super Volcanic Pore Clay Mask

We're sharing innisfree's Super Volcanic Pore Clay Mask with our combination skin girlies in mind. Though all skin types can use it, we know having dry & oily areas on your face can be tough to conquer. But this mask contains ingredients like AHA that help stabilize your skin's oil production and it also acts as a natural exfoliant.

Sephora

Topicals Faded Under Eye Brightening & Clearing Eye Masks

Did you really think we were rushing past your under eye care? We're serious about it and want you to feel your best, so we're sharing Topicals Faded Under Eye Brightening & Clearing Eye Masks. They may be cute to look at, but they also have plumping and hydrating properties that will make you look well-rested.

The Best Makeup Buys From Sephora's Sale

Sephora

Universal/Translucent

Danessa Myricks Beauty Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder

We love e.l.f.'s Power Grip Primer, but we know everyone isn't a fan of it's "sticky" feel. To get the same makeup base that it provides, try applying Danessa Myricks Beauty Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder before you put on your foundation or skin tint! It feels like a face balm, but dries down to a hydrating, matte finish that makes your makeup stay in place.

Sephora

Deep 1

Ami Colé Skin-Enhancing Tinted Moisturizer

Don't let the "lack" of shade options scare you away because Ami Colé's Skin-Enhancing Tinted Moisturizer is spot-on with its shade-matching. The colors are spot-on and they offer a natural finish that's skin-like.

Sephora

2N Maple

Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer Oil Free Matte SPF 30

If you want to keep the matte party going, Laura Mercier's Tinted Moisturizer has an oil-free and matte version that oily skin will appreciate. It has SPF in it and won't clog your pores like some foundations do.

P.S. It's light coverage, so you may want to follow up with concealer or a loose powder that matches your complexion.

Sephora

Playtint

Benefit Benetint Liquid Lip + Cheek Blush Stain

Lip and cheek blush stains aren't new, but Benefit's version makes us feel like it is. It's long-wearing formula stays in place all day and won't dry your lips out. Did we mention it's also smudge and transfer-proof?

Sephora

Huda Beauty Easy Bake Blurring Loose Setting Powder

Our favorite loose setting powder has to be Huda Beauty's Easy Bake Blurring product. It's non-Comedogenic (goodbye pore-clogging ingredients) and light-weight, so you don't need a lot.

Pro Tip: After pressing your beauty sponge into it, blow off some of the excess product for a flawless look. You can also tap some of the product on the back of your hand to help avoid unnecessary creasing under your eyes.

Sephora

ONE/SIZE by Patrick Starr On 'Til Dawn Setting Spray

We haven't tested if ONE/SIZE by Patrick Starr's On 'Til Dawn Setting Spray is waterproof yet, but we do swear by how long-lasting it is. We're also fond of it being vegan and cruelty-free because that matters too!

Sephora

Burst

MILK MAKEUP Cooling Water Jelly Tint Lip + Cheek Stain

Are we being biased about lip and cheek stains? You can say that, but we'll share why. In a world where it's easy to be heavy-handed with a powder, liquid or cream blush, we're all about using products that make our makeup routine easier.

The Best Haircare Buys From Sephora's Sale

Sephora

T3 SinglePass Curl X 1.25" Ceramic Barrel Curl

In the market for a new curling iron that you don't have to fight tooth and nail with? You'll love T3's Single Pass design! Created with all hair types in mind, it's sleek and has an extra-long barrel that'll fit around your hair without burning it.

Sephora

Gisou Honey Gloss Ceramide Therapy Hair Mask

Every time we see honey in a product, we know it's going to give us the hydration we need! In this case, Gisou's Gloss Ceramide Therapy Hair Mask contains properties that strengthen your hair while adding shine to it.

Sephora

Olaplex No. 7 Bonding Oil

Oils shouldn't weigh your hair down and Olaplex knows this. Their bonding formula gives you the healthiest shine while combatting frizz and heat damage which probably explains why it's so popular!

Sephora

Fenty Beauty by Rihanna The Comeback Kid Repair Hair Treatment

Sometimes your hair needs extra attention and we know just the product you need: Fenty Beauty by Rihanna's The Comeback Kid Repair Hair Treatment! It helps undo the effects of heat damage, chemical and color styles while helping to restore your hair to it's former glory.

Sephora

K18 Biomimetic Hairscience Peptide Prep Detox Shampoo

Speaking of color-treated hair, you often need specialized shampoo to maintain your new style and the health of your hair. That's where K18's Biomimetic Hairscience Peptide Prep Detox Shampoo steps into the picture. It may remove product buildup and an excess of oil production (sebum), but it doesn't strip your hair!

Sephora

BREAD BEAUTY SUPPLY Hair Foam: Curl Defining Mousse

Those with curly hair can use mousse and that's something BREAD BEAUTY SUPPLY is aware of. Their foaming lotion is incredibly soft and helps to repair your hair each time you apply it.

The Best Nail Care Buys From Sephora's Sale

Sephora

Glamnetic Press-On Nail Kit

You know how we feel about press-on nails, but we have to say Glamnetic holds a special place in our hearts. You could be a minimalist or maximalist girl, but there's sure to be designs that fit your personal aesthetic.

Sephora

Glamnetic Brush-On Nail Glue

Glamnetic also has a bruch-on nail glue that makes applying press-on nails super easy. You won't have to worry about applying to much glue because the brush picks up the perfect amount that will coat your nails so you apply whatever designs you have on-hand.

Sephora

Soft Services Theraplush "Hold" Overnight Retinol Hand Cream

Don't skip taking care of your hands the way you do your face or hair! Soft Services' warm gourmands Retinol Hand Cream helps keep your appendages nice and supple while also making sure your cuticles look taken care of.

Sephora

L'Occitane Strengthening Shea Nail and Cuticle Oil

If smelling warm & spicy scents that aren't food makes you quiver in disgust, try applying L'Occitane's Strengthening Shea Nail and Cuticle Oil to your hands. It has shea, apricot, and sweet almond oil in it to help replenish any lost moisture which is possible if you use your hands a lot!

We can't wait to see what you snag during Sephora's Savings Event!

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

In less than 6 months, I experienced two devastating events that forced me to gauge my relationship with self care. Tough conversations with my inner circle made me aware that I needed to embrace my "soft girl era", but I didn't know where to start. On certain parts of TikTok, it looked like I needed to surround myself with new home decor or beauty buys, while other people implied it's about living a life that's free of stress.

To cut out the noise, I took a break from social media so I could ask myself what I need to thrive. This resulted in me making a temporary decision about my fertility journey, slowly axing out foods that disrupt my hormones, and choosing things that make me feel at peace in my mind, body, and soul.

Uncover 11 ways having a "soft girl era" can help transform your self-care!

1. It Can Help You Examine Your Relationship With Social Media & The News

Ketut Subiyanto/Pexels

Do you have a healthy relationship with social media and the news, or have you been doom scrolling? I'll be the first to say I've had to set strict limits for myself because it's been too easy to stay glued to gossip sites and what's happening in the world. While it's always great to be informed, there is a such thing as information overload that can affect us mentally and emotionally.

Make an effort to find activities to occupy your time sans scrolling endlessly on Instagram, TikTok, or other news platforms.

2. It Allows You To Be Honest With Yourself If You're An Overthinker

Andrea Piacquadio/Pexels

Have you been allowing overthinking to make you feel stressed? If so, you should try writing down or repeating a few phrases to help you calm down. They're such a big help if you have anxiety because they remind you that you can be present in the moment instead of existing solely in your head.

3. It Opens You Up To Asking For Help

Ron Lach/Pexels

This should be in all caps, but I don't want you to think I'm yelling at you. It's just, I know what it's like to be hyper-independent while embodying the traits of a "strong woman." But, there's some things you can't #GirlBoss or #LuckyGirlSyndrome your way out, and it can be devastating if you don't like asking for help maneuvering a tough event.

I'm still processing an emergency situation I was in after what was supposed to be a routine doctor's visit, so I've been out of my element whenever I lean on my family and friends for emotional support. I usually like to deal with sad or scary situations by myself, but not all things are meant to be shouldered by ourselves.

What I can tell you is that asking for help and receiving it makes life a little more peaceful because there's no extra burden of hurting while trying to portray a role society claims it loves.

4. You'll Become Comfortable Journaling Your Thoughts

Tonette Whitted/Dupe

I sound like a broken record, but I feel strongly about journaling your thoughts. It's a way of processing things that have happened and how you feel about them. Also, it can be a place where you create lists of goals, books you want to read, hobbies you want to try, and more!

5. You'll Give Yourself Permission To Rest

Cora Pursley/Dupe

If you can, push the pause button on being available to everyone for a couple of days. Even if you're an extrovert, it never hurts to occasionally stay in bed and do nothing. Take it from someone who has a hard time resting: you're not "lazy" if you're not always going somewhere or talking to someone.

It's completely fine to reset your mind, body, and soul.

6. You'll Begin To Do Nice Things For Yourself 

Abigal Westlin/Dupe

Buying myself flowers is one of my favorite things to do in my soft girl era. Instead of waiting for a man to surprise me with a bouquet outside of Valentine's Day, I regularly adorn my home with tulips or sunflowers. They bring a touch of beauty and greenery to my space which helps on WFH days that feel challenging.

7. It's A Great Way To Rediscover Your Love Of Reading 

Daniela Lara/Dupe

Can you think of the one book that makes you laugh, smile, and cry tears of joy? If so, that's the book you'll want to keep near your nightstand. It'll help you break up with your dependence on screen time while also giving you a chance to let your imagination fly. The added bonus is that you'll fall back in love with reading!

8. You'll Genuinely Find Ways To Nourish Your Body.

Payton Butler/Dupe

Being a soft girl isn't just about looking good or reaching for fun things, it's also about nourishing your body with healthy meals. Sometimes we eat and drink things that our digestive system doesn't like, so I'm recommending that you make small changes to your meals.

You can create your own Mediterranean bowl à la Cava or aim to eat more fruits and veggies during the week. Whatever you choose, just remember to start small!

9. You May Even Adopt A Sober Lifestyle

Sivan Weitz/Dupe

Whether you know it or not, there's great joy in grabbing a non-alcoholic beverage with your bestie in the city. You can catch up about life, share your dreams or whatever's troubling you, and sip the greenest beverage that beats the idea of eating green eggs and ham. That's right — I'm talking about matcha.

Is it the pretty green hue we can't stop staring at or does it really taste that good? Let's compromise and say it's both!

10. Solo Activities Won't Feel Daunting

Thyra Morton/Dupe

You don't have to be the next Frida Kahlo to enjoy a paint class! I personally like to engage in coloring or painting because it helps me find something else to focus on. Though it seems simple, the art of having a fun hobby you're not trying to perfect or gain profit from sparks your inner kid's joy.

11. The Beach Will Actually Feel Relaxing For Once

Sash Gabriel/Dupe

You deserve a mini vacation that includes putting beach towel down on hot sand near the ocean so you can read your newest TBR pick. It's soothing feeling the sun on your skin while a gentle breeze blows which is why I recommend everyone try to experience it a few times per month.

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Easter dresses are one of our favorite traditions when it comes to the springtime holiday. There’s no better feeling than slipping into your Sunday best and celebrating in whatever way makes your heart happy – from baking up sweet Easter desserts to dyeing eggs with the whole fam.

Since Easter is the perfect excuse to break a beautiful dress, we scoured the internet for the 10 most stunning options you can wear this year. Plus, each of these styles have staying power, so you can rock ‘em all springand summer long!

Shop our 10 favorite Easter dresses below!

Free People

Free-est Taking Sides Maxi

Flowy and femme, this tiered maxi dress also comes complete with an open back design that feels super warm weather-friendly. Plus, this butter yellow shade is undeniably this spring's "it" color, so you can take it plenty of places beyond your Easter plans!

Walmart

Time And Tru Women's Eyelet Halter Dress

White eyelet designs like this one always make great Easter dresses. Though basic in color, you can easily make this one more formal with a blazer or denim jacket or go the colorful route by pairing it with bold accessories. When you're not sporting it for Easter activities, you could also rock it with some cowgirl boots to nail the western aesthetic that's trending right now!

Anthropologie

Endless Rose Strapless Textured Column Midi Dress

The ruffles on this midi moment make it feel oh-so elegant for special occasions like Easter Sunday church service or Easter brunch with the besties. We adore the baby blue color for the season, too!

Banana Republic

Banana Republic Crepe V-Neck Maxi Dress

The multicolor gradient pattern on this adorable dress will definitely make your Easter look stand out. Banana Republic says it's designed with an "easy fit," so you'll feel comfy all day! We're big fans of the v-neckline that's not too modest nor too revealing!

Abercrombie & Fitch

Abercrombie & Fitch Dipped-Waist Smocked Midi Dress

Polka dots are huge this spring, so you could easily style this midi dress for Easter by layering it under a pastel cardigan. Ballet flats feel like the ultimate pairing for this style, but past Easter, it'd go really well with everything from your favorite sneakers to some chic flip-flops for vacay.

Target

A New Day Knit Midi Dress

Hello, flattering! This knit number is fit with a feminine off-the-shoulder neckline and some side shirring that makes your waist look smooth and snatched as ever. What's more is the soft, stretchy knit fabric it's cut from for all-day comfort. It's shoppable in 3 other colors, though we'd say this mint green shade is ideal for Easter dressing.

Walmart

Scoop Puff Sleeve O-Ring Dress

Modest yet still super stylish up top, this maxi dress will undoubtedly turn heads with its stunning puff sleeves and adorable o-ring cutouts. It's made from 93% cotton, so the breathability will be practical for warmer days – even beyond Easter Sunday!

Ann Taylor

Ann Taylor Floral Square Neck Flare Dress

You truly can never go wrong with florals! This easy-fitting dress with a flattering (and ever-so trendy!) square neckline wears super well by itself for a simple Easter look – just slip into some kitten heels or wedge sandals and snap on some cute jewelry to seal the deal!

Abercrombie & Fitch

Abercrombie & Fitch Emerson Poplin Wide Strap Midi Dress

This more-monochromatic floral frock definitely channels the classic look of fancy china with an intricate blue and white pattern. Though it fits so cozily (shoutout stretch fabric!), you'll be feeling uber-elegant from the moment you put it on – perfect for Easter Sunday festivities and spring brunches alike!

Free People

Hutch The Ridge Dress

Smooth and silky, this drop-waist maxi dress is perfect for formal springtime get-togethers or even Easter dinner with your family! The waistline that's intentionally placed lower on the body adds a flattering elongating effect.

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.