1) Tarte MutilplEYE Lash Enhancer, $65.
I’ve recently realized that while I can continue to rely on assorted mascaras to obtain the luxe lash look I so badly want, I may need to explore other options as well.This latest launch from tarte promises a 152% increase in the appearance of lash length!!! Totally unheard of, especially because like all tarte products it’s made from only natural ingredients (things like soy protein and cellulose). That makes me feel a lot better about putting something near my peepers, and a much safer option than other similar products which are made from all kinds of crazy chemicals.

2) Bobbi Brown Illuminating Bronze Collection, $85.
This was the first makeup I ever bought and even now when I’m lucky enough to try every brand under the sun, I still get excited every time Bobbi comes out with something new. This latest collection for summer is the perfect way to get glowy without laying in the sun, which you know is a no-no! As always Bobbi has mastered the ideal hue of bronze that’s nowhere near fake-bake orange. I particularly j’adore the All Over Body Brush that I use to dust on bronzy goodness across my chest and neck. It’s perfectly soft and fluffy and it makes for the most ideal sheer and even application.

3) Kiehl’s Superbly Restorative Argan  Body Cleansing Oil, $27.50
I’ll take anything and everything from Kiehl’s. Even if I have no clue what it is, if it says Kiehl’s on it, I’ll use it. Interestingly enough though, I hadn’t discovered their classic Superbly Restorative Dry Body Oil until my roommate turned me onto it. Now we’re both crazy excited that the luxurious formula has been turned into a body wash! It transforms from oil to a creamy lather that will leave your bod super soft and moisturized, never greasy or slippery. And of course the Morrocan Argan Oil is fair trade and paraben free, as per usual.

4) Benefit Erase Paste, $26
Not only do I think the name of this concealer is super cute but it really is one of the best ones I’ve used. It’s not a new launch or anything but I recently just re-discovered it—somehow I had forgotten how perfectly it covers any flaw, from slight discoloration to big old honking zit. It’s perfectly creamy and blendable, and  simultaneously adds brightness to your skin while hiding anything unsightly. My favorite part is the teeny spatula it comes with to help you scoop out the perfect amount.

5) Voluspa Soleil Candle, 5 oz. $15
This brand is my go-to for all things candles and home fragrance and this new scent of summer is so superbly scrumptious. A light blend of pineapple and tangerine with just a touch of vanilla and coconut is definitively summery and matches the bright sunbursty color of the candle perfectly! One whiff and you won’t be able to help but feel like it’s a lazy July afternoon at the beach. Therefore, I plan on lighting them not only over the summer but all through next winter to fend off the onset of Seasonal Affective Disorder!

6) Kate Spade Tarrytown Passport Holder, $75
I’m moving to a new apartment this weekend which means I’ve spent the past week packing. In the process I’ve found some fun little goodies. You know, the usual things you’d find under your bed—dried up chocolate covered raisins, assorted mismatched argyle socks, and oh yes, my passport (obviously I haven’t been out of the country in forever). Sadly I didn’t even know that it was missing, which made me realize that it might be a wise move to keep it somewhere safe. I’m planning on protecting it in this too cute for words tangerine colored leather holder from my fav accessories lady Kate Spade. Chic and practical!

7) Tori & Dean Home Sweet Hollywood Season 4, Tuesday nights on Oxygen
If you’ve been reading this blog, you know that I unapologetically, unabashedly heart Tori Spelling. The hour-long premiere last Tuesday night was beyond enjoyable and had me riveted to the TV. Some may call the show and/or her a hot mess, but to those nay-sayers I say let Tori be happy and have her babies. I’ve decided my next career goal is to work my way in as the family’s nanny… And you have to admit that her and Dean’s adorable relationship and sweet banter is super cute. And for me was a much needed and welcome relief from Monday night’s Jon and Kate + 8 premiere,which, while also riveting, caused me way too much stress.

8 ) Trina Turk Bonita Jungle Blooms Belted Dress, $298.
In case you were wondering I have officially decided that it is impossible to O.D. on summer dresses. I simply cannot be bothered wearing anything that doesn’t offer full ventilation and freedom once June rolls around; jeans will be banished to the depths of my closet until Labor Day. Therefore, I need approximately 12759 more cute summery dresses before I will be satisfied, and this adorable one from Trina Turk is right up my alley. The bright floral print comes in  lime green and pink or bright teal and gray. Plus the silhouette with belled sleeves and optional belt is super girly and totally flattering. Jenni Garth was just seen wearing it in Turks and Cacos!

xx, Melanie Rud