Welcome to Refinery29 Loves, the monthly news bulletin where you’ll find the best things to shop and see in fashion and beauty right now.
Peak summer has arrived, and our online shopping carts are living proof. In other words, it's time for another edition of R29 Loves, our monthly roundup of the latest fashion and beauty launches editors genuinely can't stop talking about — the ones flooding our Slack channels, group chats, brunch tables, and more.
Our latest haul is packed with everything getting us through the hottest stretch of the season: breathable wardrobe staples, makeup that holds up against sweat and humidity, vacation-ready accessories, little luxuries, and more. Among this month's favorites, you’ll find our beauty director’s go-to hypochlorous acid mist and a sparkly eyeshadow stick that rivals luxury formulas, to the chicest summer fragrance we’ve smelled yet. Not to mention a handful of outfit-making accessories we'll be wearing long after the heat wave ends.
Ahead, the fashion and beauty finds that made our month — and deserve a spot in your summer rotation.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Rhode Pocket Bronze
"Rhode's Pocket Bronze makes bronzing so easy that anyone could do it. This silky bronzer stick glides over the skin and lends the kind of warmth and dimension that, previously, only a tan could achieve — but there's no sun damage here. Instead, the balm is filled to bursting with ingredients like skin-strengthening, moisturizing peptides. That doesn't mean it skimps on pigment; far from it. One swipe along the forehead, nose, and cheeks is enough to warm up my complexion, but if you want even more dimension, you can build it up. I like to apply it with a brush for a more seamless effect." — Jacqueline Kilikita, Beauty Director
"If I love something, I tend to buy several of that item in different colors, and these are my favorite Lululemon shorts to wear around the city. The pockets are perfect for keys and cards, and the material is lightweight and airy to prevent sticking in humid NYC heat. So of course, I had to grab another pair in this Cherry Ember color, which is, coincidentally the perfect Knicks orange shade. Go New York, go New York, go!" — Lisa Dionisio, Newsletter Director
Lululemon Court Rival High-Rise Short 3", $, available at Lululemon
Colourpop Jelly Much Gel Eyeshadow Stick
"I go feral for any glittery eyeshadow, so the second I saw these ColourPop Shadow Stix drop, I knew I had to try them. (It helps that I'm already a huge fan of the brand's Jelly Much shadow pots.) They glide on effortlessly — just apply and blend in with clean fingers — and leave behind the prettiest wash of sparkle. I'd even call them a solid dupe for the Danessa Myricks Beauty Colorfix Stix (another favorite of mine), though they don't quite have the same staying power. I picked up the shades Big Energy and Aura Points, which are subtle enough for everyday wear but will also be on rotation for concerts and festival season." — Karina Hoshikawa, Senior Beauty Writer
ColourPop Jelly Much Eyeshadow Stick, $, available at ColourPop
Keen Newport H2 Sandal
"I'm fully leaning into summer camp-meets-gorpcore this season, and I've been wearing these Keen Newport H2 sandals nonstop. The Triple Black colorway goes with everything (the beauty of black!), and they're easily the most comfortable sandals I own. Even after long walks, my feet still feel completely supported. They're equal parts practical and cool. In other words, orthopedic, but make it chic." — Karina Hoshikawa, Senior Beauty Writer
"By now, you probably know that three-quarters of my makeup bag is Charlotte Tilbury — it's just the best — but I'm going to have to make that the whole thing thanks to the new Unreal Highlighter, which I'm promptly adding to my arsenal. If you ask me, no one does a lit-from-within glow quite like Charlotte, but this takes things up a notch and makes me look the picture of health, even when I don't feel that way. Worn alone or over a dab of concealer here and there, it lends a dewy effect and instantly brightens my skin. Over makeup, it has a knack for pulling everything together and providing the perfect finishing touch. The iridescent particles are so fine that it simply looks like dew — as though you've dabbed a little gloss onto the skin — rather than appearing overly shiny or sparkly. I also love the balmy, silky texture, which is thanks in part to the 92% skincare-infused formula, including hydrating hyaluronic acid and moisturizing vitamin E." — Jacqueline Kilikita, Beauty Director
Charlotte Tilbury Unreal Highlighter, $, available at Charlotte Tilbury
"It’s officially summer, and I just want to wear airy minidresses all the time. This Doen Bea dress is the best kind of throw-on-and-go piece for daytime hangs and dressy enough to style for dinner. It’s a classic silhouette that I’ll be wearing for many summers to come." — Lisa Dionisio, Newsletter Director
"Featured in Free People’s summer edit, these cargo pants have quickly become part of my summer wardrobe. I love the low-slung, relaxed, oversized fit, and especially that the ankles can be tightened for a barrel-leg silhouette. The many pockets are especially a plus, and the reason why I’ve worn these for all my recent summer travels, from flights to road trips." — Victoria Montalti, Senior Fashion Commerce Writer
Free People Bobbi Pull-On Cargo Trousers, $, available at Free People
MAC Viva Glam Lustreglass Lipstick In Roan Of Arc
"I'm a ride-or-die MAC lipstick girl, so when I heard Chappell Roan was the new face of Viva Glam (the makeup brand’s philanthropic arm, which benefits gender, racial, and environmental charitable causes), I knew we were in for something good. It doesn't hurt that 100% of proceeds from every Viva Glam purchase benefit the MAC Viva Glam Fund. The collection includes two lipsticks and a Lipglass, but the Lustreglass formula has quickly become my new favorite red lipstick. It's sheer with a subtle sheen, making it an incredibly wearable way to embrace a bold lip. I especially love the muted, deeper Roan Of Arc shade; —it feels less like a statement red and more like a kiss of color, since it’s not an opaque red. Like every MAC lipstick, the formula is buttery and creamy with that signature vanilla scent. While the rich crimson shade (a Chappell beauty signature) leans more fall than summer, I simply couldn't wait until cooler weather to start wearing it." — Karina Hoshikawa, Senior Beauty Writer
MAC Cosmetics Viva Glam Lustreglass Sheer‑Shine Lipstick, $, available at Nordstrom
e.l.f. Cosmetics Save Your e.l.f. hypochlorous Mist
"I'm really into hypochlorous acid spray after a dermatologist I met recently listed off its myriad benefits. It's antibacterial (you can spritz it directly onto skin or devices, like LED masks) making it a great option for acne-prone skin. It also helps soothe irritation, including itchiness, puffiness, and redness, and can support the skin's natural recovery process. I've been using another brand's spray after cleansing and before moisturizer (and even using it to clean my makeup brushes between uses), but e.l.f.'s new mist has caught my eye because the before-and-after photos were impressive, with reviewers reporting less redness and fewer breakouts." — Jacqueline Kilikita, Beauty Director
e.l.f. Cosmetics Save Your e.l.f. hypochlorous Mist, $, available at e.l.f. Cosmetics
Medicube Booster Pro X2
"I experienced the lifting, hydration-boosting powers of Medicube's Booster Pro X2 at a recent masterclass, and I've been using it ever since — it's that good. I love the original device's red-light function for helping to minimize large, angry breakouts, but this one boasts even more light settings and modes, so I can do all of that while also giving my skin a temporary lift and helping shuttle my skincare ingredients deeper into the skin. I first used it over a sheet mask, and the gleam on my skin afterward stopped me in my tracks. The micro-vibrations help hydrating ingredients travel a little further into the skin than they would with your fingers alone, leaving everything looking plumper and more radiant. I noticed the biggest difference with the orange LED setting, which gives my facial muscles a serious workout. It's quite funny to watch your eyes and brows twitch, knowing the muscles are being stimulated. The result is firmer-looking skin and more definition around the face, even if the effects are only temporary." — Jacqueline Kilikita, Beauty Director
ESSENCE Festival Of Culture is back, and while the main stages always bring the energy (I mean, Teyana Taylor is the chief curator this year), some of the most inspiring moments are happening on the ground with the next generation of entrepreneurial talent. This year, the festival is shining a massive spotlight on its New Voices activation, celebrating a powerful cohort of trailblazing founders who are redefining everything from luxury fashion to wellness and literature.
Even more inspiring? As part of their inaugural vendor mentor program, several of these established vendor partners are stepping up to mentor incoming brands, building a beautiful ecosystem of community.
If you’re looking to vote with your dollar and support exceptional Black-owned businesses, look no further. We’ve rounded up a few of the brilliant, brands that deserve a permanent spot in your shopping cart.
For the accessory enthusiasts, Grace Yeboah’s TrufaceByGrace offers everything, from crowns to beach bags. You’ll feel like royalty wearing the armor-like cuff bracelets and the face-framing earrings.
If you’re looking for a brand that brings a curated sensibility to design, offering thoughtfully crafted goods that seamlessly blend intentionality with modern aesthetics, look no further. Bianca Tatum’s Cree & Company turns jewelry into works of art through unique silhouettes and dopamine-inducing color.
Your skin and hair will thank you for adding this one to your beauty routine. Whipped, rich, and deeply nourishing, Irene Bekoe’s That Good Good Shea is the ultimate beauty indulgence. Rooted in authentic, high-quality ingredients, this brand takes staying moisturized to a luxurious level.
If your accessory wardrobe is in need of an elevated vibrant upgrade, Alexandria Alli’s F&W Style delivers luxury leather handbags designed for those who love the polish of structured pieces but want to make a statement that’s confidently bold. Melding sophistication with practical luxury, these bags will be the hero of your collection.
Sunglasses are the ultimate outfit punctuation mark, and Brittney Adams is making sure yours say exactly what they need to. Focus & Frame Eyewear serves up attention-grabbing, fashion-forward eyewear that mixes trendy design with classic silhouettes.
In need of your next profound read or looking to diversify a bookshelf? Courtney Kelly is using the power of storytelling to create impactful literary spaces, making her eponymous publishing house a vital voice in modern storytelling.
Because no curation is complete without a little indulgence, Rosemarie Tolbert’s Rozi Eats serves up artisanal confectionery treats that taste just as beautiful as they look. They’re also perfect for gifting (or keeping all to yourself).
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
This may sound controversial, but I rarely take checked luggage on a trip. When there’s no other choice (like my semi-destination wedding andhoneymoon, which spanned nearly a month), I worry if my bags will arrive where I’m headed. Even more eye-twitching is standing beside a conveyor belt as bags slowly roll on by. So, if there’s any way to not take a monster suitcase, I’m in.
Thanks to my mom, I consider myself a master packer, zipping, squishing, and folding everything into a handy carry-on suitcase and personal item (like my Calpak Ambeur and Luka Duffel). But it’s not an easy feat. Step one to conquering the art of packing light is having a well-rounded checklist. It takes strategy, splaying outfits across the bed and using your itinerary as a guide. Even more important? Reaching for versatile styles.
I work in fashion, so a minimalist, capsule wardrobe isn’t really my thing — I love colors, prints, and textures! But wearability doesn’t mean boring. Think a gingham one-piece that doubles as a bodysuit, or wearing a silk scarf as a belt or bandana. It takes creativity, but once you get it down, your packing will never be the same.
I’m taking my own advice as I jet-set off to the Dominican Republic, England, France, and a few stops within the United States. So, keep reading to up your summer travel game and shop my style essentials.
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Elevated Silk Scarves
Silk scarfs are undeniably chic, offering a touch of glamour to any look. Knotting it around your neck is the most common approach, but you can maximize its wearability by draping it over your bottoms like a flowing belt. I adore the flirty vibe it gives as a headband, bandana, bow, and bag charm. Depending on the dimensions of the scarf, you can even wear it as an open-back tube top.
Transitional One-Piece Swimsuits
A swimsuit is a vacation non-negotiable, but even if you prefer sultry two-pieces, I’d urge you to consider adding a one-piece to the lineup. While they’re perfect for beach days and poolside tanning, one-pieces double as bodysuits. Wear them with maxi skirts and kitten heels for an elevated rooftop happy hour, or style them with high-waisted shorts and casual sneakers for a day of sightseeing. Pro tip: Secure a swimmie with decorative details like twists, overlays, and snap closures to make the styling intentional.
Do-It-All Linen Button-Downs
Oversized linen button-downs are crucial in any well-rounded wardrobe — but they play an even more important role when jetsetting. I prefer an oversized silhouette, wearing it as a dress to the pool or tucked into shorts for a sleek finish. Billowy button-downs are also ideal for lounging, thanks to the easy throw-on-and-go style great for spa trips, gym sessions, and coffee-sipping.
Packable Woven Totes
Without fail, I take two bags on vacation: a compact, elevated style for evenings and — more importantly — a packable, woven tote. The flexible design keeps it from feeling bulky and stiff, making it simple to fold, store, and stash it. Take it to the beach, fill it with your makers’ market finds, and use it as your personal item on flights.
