May has meant a sharp farewell to warm weather, ushering in a season of golden light and crisp mornings.
As the days shorten, and a hint of winter chill returns, I found myself reaching for products that embraced the changing season, whether it’s a more nourishing moisturiser or thicker boots for my next camping adventure.
Google Pixel released its slightly cheaper 8a device this month which I’ve been trialling — after becoming an Android convert at the back end of last year.
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And a number of new beauty releases has dropped onto my desk, with some worth higher praise.
Here’s a peek at the amazing things that made May a truly delightful month.
1. Medik8 Total Moisture Daily Facial Cream, $89
As the weather cools, I’ve been packing away my lighter moisturisers and opting for thicker formulations.
If you’re prone to dry patches in winter, the Medik8 Total Moisture Daily Facial Cream might be your new holy grail.
This fragrance-free moisturiser caters to all skin types, even oily and acne-prone, thanks to its fast-absorbing formula.
Despite its airy texture, it boasts long-lasting hydration, promising to keep your skin quenched for a whopping 100 hours.
But Medik8 goes beyond just surface-level moisture.
The cream includes multi-weight hyaluronic acid to plump and hydrate at different skin layers, while ceramides strengthen your skin’s natural barrier, preventing moisture loss and irritation.
The inclusion of a prebiotic peptide adds another layer of innovation.
This ingredient helps nourish the good bacteria on your skin’s surface, promoting a healthy microbiome which in turn contributes to overall skin health and resilience.
I’ve definitely noticed a difference in my skin tone and texture after using the cream and I don’t find it exacerbates any problem areas.
For added hydration, the Selkia Luminosité Dry Face Oil ($52 for 30mL) is also a fragrance-free option filled with a diverse blend of botanical oils and extracts.
I like to apply this as a base for when I’m about to put on a touch of makeup because the oil prevents any crepe-y skin from tugging at the products.
2. L’IDEE Silencio Short Sleeved Mini in Nuite Garden, $329
Embrace elegance and stand out at your next event with this gorgeous L’IDEE Silencio Short Sleeved Mini.
This dress embodies a balance of sophistication and modern style, perfect for the crisp autumn air.
Crafted for a mini length, the dress flatters your figure with a sleeveless silhouette and a high neckline — two of L’IDEE’s signature elements.
The real showstopper lies in the stunning details though.
The dress features a sculpted scalloped hemline that adds a touch of whimsy and movement.
Imagine the hemline catching the light as you walk, creating a truly eye-catching entrance.
Whether you’re attending a cocktail party, a special dinner or simply want to feel confident and stylish, this dress is sure to make a statement, as all the L’IDEE gowns do.
3. ROTHY’S The Square Mary Jane, $290
Spruce up your style with the Rothy’s Square Mary Jane, a modern twist on a timeless classic.
This comfortable and chic flat combines the familiar silhouette of a Mary Jane with a contemporary square toe, offering a touch of sophistication for everyday wear.
I’d pair these with a longer skirt or a pair of dark wash jeans to get the most out of the look.
Made from Rothy’s signature washable knit construction, the Square Mary Jane boasts both flexibility and structure.
This unique material ensures a comfortable fit that moves with your foot without losing its shape.
Whether you’re dressing for work, running errands or enjoying a casual brunch with friends, the Square Mary Jane offers a versatile option that seamlessly transitions between polished and playful.
4. Google Pixel 8a, from $849
When I tested out the Google Pixel 8 Pro a few months ago, I was drawn in by the incredible camera and Ai features.
But it turns out you can get much the same from the new Google Pixel 8a.
This new device offers a compelling blend of affordability and flagship-level features, making it a strong contender for the title of best budget phone in 2024.
The Pixel 8a packs the same Google Tensor G3 processor found in the more expensive Pixel 8 and 8 Pro.
This translates to smooth performance, allowing you to run apps, games and demanding tasks without lag.
And don’t be fooled by the “a” designation. The Pixel 8a boasts a camera system that rivals some high-end phones.
While the megapixel count might not be the highest (64MP main and 13MP ultrawide), Google’s photography prowess shines through.
Expect exceptional image quality, especially in low-light conditions thanks to software features like Night Sight.
I’ve actually swapped it out for my usual Pixel 8 Pro because of how lightweight it is, so let that be your signal to get one too.
5. Bendon Front Opening Wire Free Bra, $64.95
Ditch the back struggles and say hello to comfort with the Bendon Front Opening Wire Free Bra.
This innovative bra is designed for ultimate ease and wearability, especially for those who prefer a fuss-free experience.
I gave up on underwire long ago but have been hanging onto my back closure bras, so this option is a game changer for being able to do it up quickly.
The star of the show is the convenient front hook-and-eye closure that allows you to easily put on and take off the bra without contorting yourself.
The fabric itself is incredibly soft so you’ll barely be able to tell you’re wearing anything at all.
6. ghd Creative Curl, $280
The ghd Creative Curl Wand can be your secret weapon for crafting gorgeous, bouncy curls even on short hair.
I start by simply diving my hair into two sections, starting from the bottom and working my way up. This allows for more control and even curl formation.
The tapered barrel of the ghd Creative Curl Wand is going to be your best friend.
It allows for creating looser waves near the root and tighter curls at the ends, adding natural dimension to your short hairstyle.
Curling hair away from the face creates a soft, flattering look, while curling towards the face adds volume and texture.
I hold each section around the wand for five seconds to set the curl.
For shorter layers, avoid curling all the way down to the ends. Leaving the ends straight adds a modern, textured touch.
To create looser waves, hold the wand vertically instead of horizontally.
7. TEVA Grandview GTX, $340
Hit the trails in style and comfort with the Teva Women’s Free People Movement Grandview GTX, a limited-edition collaboration that merges functionality with bohemian flair.
So what helps these boots stand out? A Gore-Tex bootie construction guarantees your feet stay dry no matter the weather.
Hike through puddles or conquer light rain with confidence.
The upper combines premium, rich leather with quick-drying webbing made from recycled plastic, for a blend of ruggedness and eco-conscious design.
A responsive PU footbed cushions your steps, while an EVA midsole provides lightweight shock absorption.
Outside of the functionality, you’ll step away from the traditional hiking boot aesthetic with these boots.
This collaboration boasts unique colourways and design details that reflect Free People’s signature bohemian spirit.
Some extras worth mentioning…
- Organised by Charli Wedding Planner, $99.95: This beautiful notebook will help me plan my upcoming wedding from the engagement party to the honeymoon, with handy space and tips inside to stay on top of my budget. What’s more, it’s the perfect gift to give to someone who is newly engaged.
- Maggi 2 Minute Vegemite Noodles, $5 for a five pack: Nothing will top my love of Australia’s most iconic spread. Imagine unagi flavour in the form of your favourite two minute noodles. The perfect winter warmer.
- Rejuvaus Rejuvenate & Restore Growth Factor Serum, $220: She might come with a hefty pricetag but this skincare “magic in a bottle” contains an abundance of the strongest and most effective epidermal growth factors, amino peptides and 10 per cent vitamin C. It feels light and gets to work straight away for an all-over glow.
- Meta Quest 3 on Amazon, $1,049.99: I wouldn’t describe myself as a gamer but if you’re looking for some light comic relief after a long day at work, why not don some virtual reality?