Best summer beauty, fashion, food & more - Episode 64

This week’s episode is a fun one! I’m recapping some of my favorite things this summer—from skincare and makeup, to drinks, meals, and little seasonal rituals.

Think of it as a cozy little summer favorites catch-up, especially if you’ve been wanting some fresh ideas to close out the season.

I already recorded a summer watchlist episode earlier this season where I talked about the best summer TV shows, movies, books, and music—so this week is more about the everyday stuff I’ve been reaching for and loving.

 
 

Create & consume

What Austen is creating this week: a summer workout plan

What Austen is consuming this week: Glamour article The summer of the crash out how we are all more stressed than normal and we should fill our schedules with things that purposely fill our time

In this episode:

Beauty products I’ve been loving

  • Milk Hydro Grip Skin Tint – lightweight and easy to wear

  • It Cosmetics Nude Glow CC Cream – gives such a pretty, radiant finish

  • It Cosmetics Sun Blush (in Sunlit) – perfect summer flush

  • Covergirl Eyeshadow Sticks – affordable, blendable, and great for travel

  • Covergirl CleanTopia Waterproof Mascara – holds up well in heat and humidity

  • Summer Fridays Lip Oils – glossy but not sticky

  • E.l.f. Hydrating Primer – keeps makeup looking fresh

  • Versed Brightening Eye Gel – has vitamin C and caffeine for tired eyes

  • Pixi Eye Masks – I keep these in the fridge before events

  • EltaMD Sunscreen – my longtime favorite for everyday SPF

  • Quince Neroli Soleil Perfume – fresh, sophisticated scent and only $50

  • Mini clear elastics – I use these for braids and low buns

  • TIGI Hair Wax Stick – smooths flyaways instantly

  • Eva NYC Hair Mask – a staple for post-beach or pool hair

 
 

Go-to summer outfits

  • Exercise dress from Amazon – comfortable and flattering

  • Denim shorts – currently loving Abercrombie and Madewell

  • Quince midi dresses – soft, breathable, and cute for hot days

Summer food on repeat

  • Shrimp bowls – with couscous, roasted broccoli or asparagus, and lemon

  • Greek salad – cucumber, tomato, olives, feta, and chickpeas

  • Tomato and burrata plate – with crusty Italian bread

  • Pollo Asado – used for tacos, fajitas, or bowls

  • Trader Joe’s Fruit Frenzy Bars – so nostalgic and refreshing

Drinks I keep reaching for

  • Water – always

  • Iced matcha latte with almond milk – my go-to afternoon boost

  • Lemonade – underrated classicMargaritas – endless ways to make them fun

  • Beers with citrus notes – favorites include Kona Big Wave and Sam Adams Wicked Easy

  • White wines – especially Sauvignon Blanc (New Zealand) or a French Sancerre

Summer bucket list ideas

  • Visit a museum (I loved the Jane Austen exhibition at The Morgan Library)

  • Try a new workout class or hobby

  • Get a summer mani or bright nail color

  • Enjoy an ice cream cone or fruit pop

  • Host an easy BBQ or sunset picnic

  • Buy a last-minute concert ticket—Lady Gaga is on my list if prices drop

Summary

From breezy midi dresses and refreshing summer meals to a few beauty favorites I’ll definitely carry into fall, this season has been filled with simple, joyful wins.

I hope this episode gave you some ideas to make the most of the final stretch of summer.


Listen on Spotify

Listen on Apple

Watch on YouTube:

 
 
Next
Next

My first cruise experience: review and tips - Episode 63