Even though the mercury’s been rising consistently for several weeks now, summer doesn’t officially start until next week. So in order to endure the balmy season, you’ll need to have a few few basic summer beauty essentials.

For me, that includes the following:

Bold nail polish is my absolute favorite accessory during the summer. A pop of color adds a bit of whimsy to any ensemble. Essie always has a wide variety of eye-catching colors ideal for summer.

Instead of blotting, using a mattifying spritz like Skindinavia’s No More Shine is a refreshing alternative for tackling oily skin.

My new obsession has been the combination of a gloss and balm like Topshop’s Gloss Stick. It’s not too sticky, but gives just the right amount of shine.

We all know the importance of sunscreen, but unfortunately not enough of us actually use products that protect our skin from the sun’s rays. When I recently ran out of my tried-and-true Olay, I decided to give Aveeno’s Ultra-Calming Moisturizing Cream with SPF a try and I’ve been pleased with the results.

Nothing says summer like beautifully bronzed skin. Iman’s Afterglow Bronzer does the trick. The mix of pinks and gold makes your skin look sun-kissed.

What are your beauty must-haves of the season?

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Looking for cute cosmetic bags to tote on your summer getaway? If so, Covergirl has you covered! Last week the beloved brand joined forces with LeSportsac and renowned makeup artist Pat McGrath to create incredibly, adorable and durable cosmetics bags for the beauty buff. The eight-piece collection features never-before seen styles, shades and prints from LeSportsac inspired by Covergirl LipPerfection lipcolor. Ranging in size from small “Kiss Case,” to the large “Professional Carry All,” tote, these makeup cases are a cut above the rest.

Prices range from $25-$120 and will be available at LeSportsac boutiques and on LeSportsac.com.

Do you use makeup bags or toss your goods into your bag loosely?

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If you’re in the New York City area and are a fan of Carol’s Daughter, there’s an event taking place right now that you won’t want to miss. The brand known for their luscious lathers and sweet skin and hair care products is launching their Monoi collection at Sephora 34th Street today. The new spokesbeauties: Solange, Selita Ebanks and Cassie will be on-hand to celebrate the new hair care collection.

Beginning at 9am today, the first 250 customers to make a Monoi Gift Set purchase at the Sephora 34th street location will receive wristbands enabling them to meet Solange, Selita and Cassie in person later that evening (consumers should bring their own cameras to get their photo taken with the Spokesbeauties; one photo per person). Walk-ins will also be welcome during the consumer portion of the event.

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Known for their rich and luxurious hand lotions and soaps, L’Occitane en Provence recently launched their newest color cosmetic collection: Pivoine Flora Make-Up. The popular French brand’s latest makeup is inspired by the pretty petals of peonies. Not only is the peony the collection’s inspiration, it’s also an ingredient.

The lovely springtime hues are enriched with softening peony extract, which helps the products glide effortlessly onto skin, making for easy blend-ability.

From a Facecolor Cream Duo to four shades of Lip Shine, L’Occitane is proving that it’s more than a place to buy deluxe lotions. top-notch toiletries and fragrances. The entire collection includes the aforementioned products as well as a face powder, lipstick, eyeshadow, and face powder.

Do you frequent L’Occitane?

Btw, the winner of the Black-Up products is Barbara! Congrats and please send me your mailing address.

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