18 Ways to Splurge with Simplicity

For me, a splurge is only as satisfying as its utility; in other words, I have to want to use it for it to make any sense in my life! Today, I am sharing exactly 18 opulent hair, skincare and beauty products from Nordstrom that reflect timeless simplicity while holding significant space in my daily routine.

Kindly scroll on for more details, swatches and images of everything in action as well as the Bottom Line…

18 Ways to Splurge with Simplicity

// HAIR + SKIN //

(1) Augustinus Bader The Shampoo

As an ardent fan of all things Augustinus Bader, I have been eagerly awaiting the arrival of the new haircare and have been sincerely pleased with the shampoo thus far. Silicon, sulfate and fragrance-free and infused with the proprietary TFC8 complex, this formula strengthens and restores while encouraging hair growth with consistent usage. I am only two weeks into testing and my hair is feeling optimal…can’t wait to continue to calibrate results.

(2) Augustinus Bader The Leave-In Hair Treatment

Lightweight and silky (but without the traditional “silicone slip” of most leave-ins), this cream helps to detangle while fighting frizz and adding shine. Upon towel drying my hair, I distribute a bit of this through my ends and love how manageable it makes my mane; I haven’t used conditioner–only this–in weeks!

(3) *Skin Inc Tri-Light Body Sculpt Fit

This genius device harnesses the power of LED therapy along with vibration, micro-current and warmth to help firm and refine skin while combatting signs of slack skin, puffiness, water retention and even cellulite. Each device yields 3000+ 5-minute treatments for time effective, spa-like experience at home. I have and use a lot of devices for my face but this is the first one I’ve been excited to use on my body.

(4) T3 Volumizing Hot Rollers

I get asked what styling tools I use on my hair almost every week and my list is short: it’s basically these rollers. I skip drying (but on the rare occasion when I use a hairdryer, it’s the Dyson Supersonic) and when I’m looking to add a little polish and refinement to my hair, I embrace these rollers, which do a great job of creating curl without causing heat damage. The velvet flocked curlers ensure that my hair won’t get caught in them (read: less hair fall) and the clips are large enough to hold even large chunks of hair in place without drooping. The set even comes with a travel case so I rarely leave town without them. Highly recommended for hair of all types and lengths!

(5) *Parfums de Marly Oriana

Ebullient yet sophisticated, bright yet sensual, this complex juice is feminine and modern. With an unexpected harmony of orange blossom, raspberry, whipped cream, black current and marshmallow, it’s unapologetically happy and I find myself reaching for it multiple times a week.

(6) Jo Malone Huntsman Whiskey and Cedarwood Cologne

I purchased this fragrance for my husband for our wedding anniversary last month and, by his reports, it’s is absolute favorite cologne. More ruggedly masculine than MFK Baccarat Rouge 540 (but in the same slightly gourmand vein), this smells just like its name ( in the very best possible sense) and I actually find myself stealing a bit from time to time.

(7) *La Prairie Skin Caviar Nighttime Oi

I’ve been using this decadent oil for the past month and each morning upon waking, my skin (which is firmer, brighter and more even-toned) thanks me. The retinol-rich formulation (from La Prairie’s proprietary caviar complex) encourages new cell turnover without the slightest hint of irritation, due in part to the nourishing oil dimension. It’s an investment, indeed, but when it comes to skincare, anytime I can get away with a singular, self-contained step that delivers masterful results, I am willing and grateful.

// THE FACE //

(8) *Clé de Peau Beauté Radiant Fluid Natural Foundation (swatches of ALL shades HERE)

Featuring medium to full coverage with a natural, skin finish that blurs fine lines and imperfections while lasting all day, this foundation is a lavish exercise in base perfection. One pump completely refines the canvas, yielding a balanced visage that is adeptly prepared for the makeup to come. My current match (swatched below and worn in the images at the end of this post) is O50, a medium beige with warm olive undertones and if you found the CdPB Radiant Fluid Matte to be a touch too matte, then this new formula will be the solution, indeed.

(9) Hourglass Luminous Bronze Light Bronzer

I have used this bronzer for ages on end and still buy a new one each year; the blend of rich tan and soft pearl work together to create a warm, sculpted and multidimensional complexion. This bronzer is easily in my top three formulations of life!

(10) *Sisley-Paris Phyto Blush Twist #7 Berry

For a just pinched flush that mirrors the beauty of nature, this creamy blush stick is sublime. It’s quite pigmented so a little goes a long way and this single wand will last me forever…just tap it on the apples of the cheeks and the face is enlivened.

(11) Westman Atelier Lit Up Highlight Stick in Nectar

A lit-from-within glow without the slightest bit of obvious shimmer is what sets this gem apart from its contemporaries. I just the tip of my ring finger to dab a touch along my upper cheek bones and down the bridge of my nose…it’s healthy, hydrated skin in seconds.

(12) Charlotte Tilbury Celestial Pearl Palette

I picked up this palette last month when I was traveling in Arizona and have reached for it time and again since then. The four luminous shades are soft and neutral but can be built up to medium opacity. I love a 1960’s sparkling and pale wash of color on the eyes and this quad makes that a reality in seconds. I don’t even use a brush when applying…just my finger tips!

(13) Byredo Eyeliner (reviewed HERE)

I am still smitten with this intense black liquid liner and wear it multiple times a week; once it sets, it’s transfer resistant and I love how a single swipe makes such a profound difference.

(14) *Jane Iredale Beyond Lash Volumizing Mascara

I’ve been testing this new clean formulation for the past couple of weeks and deeply appreciate its consistent performance. The mascara adds length and volume in two coats and doesn’t budge, even on a warm day.

(15) *Anastasia Brow Freeze

This glossy wax really and truly crates a full and feathery laminated brow effect with very little effort and it’s crystal clear so it matches every single brow color.

(16) Lancôme Le Lip Liner in Bronzelle

This liner is a brilliant blend of mauve, pink, nude and peach which work together to create a flattering multidimensional tan hue that works well with an array of lip colors. Lush and long lasting, this is one of my favorite lip liner formulations of life and the most wearable shades are often sold out…there seemed to be a few of this particular hue in stock when this story was published. If that is still the case as you’re reading this, I would act with haste.

(17) Armani Lip Power in 103 Androgino

Creamy full coverage in a pinky peach color family…this is the lip color description that will forever call my name. Toss in a subtle pearl finish and I’m all in! So glad I bought this shade and I suspect you will be, too.

(18) *Sisley-Paris Phyto Lip Twist in 26 True Red

A fresh red for the holiday season ahead, True Red comes in one of my favorite lip formulas of life. The twist balm yields shiny hydration and a glorious wash of color that really lasts. If you’re looking for a classic neutral red with a pop of luminosity, look no further…this is what you need.

The following images reflect everything in action in afternoon sunlight… 

// STYLE NOTES //

Commando Jumpsuit

I’ve had my eye on this jumpsuit for awhile, finally took the plunge (after being compelled by a host of rave reviews) and am so happy that I did. This one-piece number has a gorgeous drape (I’m wearing a size medium and it’s a touch roomy), adjustable drawstring waist, pockets and the ability to be dressed up or down with ease, guaranteeing that it will get a lot of wear time in my wardrobe. It’s so versatile, in fact, that I couldn’t help but to pair it with a couple different pairs of boots styles in the images that follow

Porcelain booties

Creamy, ultra soft leather with a higher shaft and a reasonable heel? Yes, please! This pair looks luxe and feels even better (no break-in time required) and the square toe makes my toes sing with joy. I purchased them in a size 7 and they seem to run very true to size.

Trench coat

I’ve been a trench coat lover for as long as I can remember. I’ve always wanted a Burberry version (goals!) and was able to splurge on one a few years ago.  It matches absolutely everything and elevates the most basic of outfits. While I have no regrets and wear mine all the time, year round, it is, undoubtedly a pricy endeavor…here is an array of additional trench options to peruse HERE.

Hunter Original Refined Short Boot:

For in-climate weather or moments when you simply want to “tromp around,” is there anything better than a classic pair of Hunters? I love them with this jumpsuit but will also bust them out in the rainy season (quite limited in Southern California but we get something!) or when I join Joey to dig in the dirt in our backyard. I’ll find reasons to wear these for life.

Lee Denim Jacket:

I have used this jacket (first introduced HERE), nonstop for the past six months; it’s delightfully oversized and is a light enough hue of jean to match everything. I am wearing it in a medium…get it, you won’t regret it.

–Shop the Post–

Bottom Line: I hope you enjoyed this look at some simple splurges that you–like I–will use time and again! Can’t wait to hear what caught your eye.

Good things ahead, including a Black Friday shopping guide, a fresh video tutorial and a host of holiday collection procurements…looking forward to sharing.

Stay strong, seek wisdom, much love and more soon,

xx

–The Beauty Professor

**Many thanks to Nordstrom for sponsoring this post. Press samples indicated by asterisk. As always, all of my opinions are expressly and unequivocally my own.  © 2012-21. Beauty Professor® All Rights Reserved. Do not copy, reprint or republish content and/or photos without author’s written permission.