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Each month, I look back at what you loved most—across both fashion and beauty. These are the pieces and products that earned the most clicks, sales, and saves from our community. In other words: they’re not just my picks, they’re officially reader approved.
This August, a mix of timeless wardrobe staples and beauty products that really deliver rose to the top. Every item on this list has been tried, tested, and loved by women just like you.
August Reader Favorites in Fashion & Beauty
If you’re new to The Well Dressed Life, this roundup is the perfect place to start. And if you’ve been here for a while, it’s always fun to see which finds have become true community favorites. Either way, these are the things worth adding to cart.
Beauty Favorites
This month’s beauty favorites made me so happy because there’s nothing better than finding something that feels exciting to me and seeing it resonate with you, too. From a product I was convinced would be a total gimmick (but now can’t live without) to a fresh scent I’ve been wearing nonstop, these are the gems we all fell for in August. And the best part? A few of them are even on sale for the long weekend.
Sacheu Lip Liner Stay-N® Peel-Off Lip Liner Stain + Lip Elixir Glaze
I was quick to dismiss this as a gimmick, but it’s actually kind of genius. You “paint” the liner on, let it dry, peel it off, and what’s left is the prettiest soft stain that lasts all day without feeling dry.
I shared a full review of this in my Empties & Opinions series (exclusive to our Substack community), but here’s a free preview: I love it. I’ve been rotating between Left on Red (my favorite) and MUAH-ve, and both are gorgeous. I top them with the Lip Elixir Glaze in Bunny Tongue, which adds the perfect touch of shine. My girls even stole this off my vanity—which feels like the ultimate stamp of approval.
AND, I’m trying their Contour STAY-N® and so far I think it’s great. It gives your face a little dimension and structure – I’ll do a full review next month 🙂
Sacheu Lip Liner Stay-N® Peel-Off Lip Liner Stain – Left of Red
Sacheu Lip Liner Stay-N® Peel-Off Lip Liner Stain – MUAH-ve
Sacheu Lip Elixir Glaze – Bunny Tongue
Elemis The It-List Kit Full-Size
It’s no secret that I love Elemis—their cleansing balm has been a staple in my skincare routine for years. When I shared this set, I was thrilled to see so many of you thought it was a great deal too. It includes the Dynamic Resurfacing Pads and the Pro-Collagen Marine Cream with SPF 30—both full-size—plus their bestselling cleansing balm. The kit is worth $284, regularly priced at $199, and right now you can use code FRIENDS to take 25% off—bringing it down to $150. A fantastic way to try their bestsellers (or stock up on favorites).
LOLAVIE Powder Perfect Dry Shampoo
Most dry shampoos come in aerosol cans, but the Powder Perfect Dry Shampoo from LOLAVIE is a powder pump—and I think that’s what makes it so good. It’s talc-free, easy to control, and doesn’t leave that chalky buildup. Just a quick press gives your roots a lift and makes second-day hair look fresh without the heavy, gritty feel. Priced at $25, a little goes a long way.
Lake & Skye 11 11 Eau de Parfum
Finding a fresh scent that feels light but still memorable isn’t easy, but 11 11 by Lake & Skye nails it. It’s clean and airy, with just enough warmth to make it feel special without being overwhelming. I’ve been wearing it nonstop, and it’s quickly become one of those perfumes people always ask about when I have it on. At $98, it feels like a signature scent you’ll actually want to reach for every day—and you can use my code TWDL15 to save 15%.
Margaux The Phoebe in Leopard Suede
A little bit of an investment, but worth every penny— The Phoebe flats from Margaux are some of the most comfortable I’ve ever worn. The sacchetto construction hugs your foot without pinching, so they feel broken in from day one. I love them in leopard suede, which adds just the right amount of personality while still working like a neutral.
Margaux The City Sandal in Nappa
I was also so excited to see the love for The City Sandal in nappa, another standout from Margaux. The cushioned insole and perfectly placed straps make them incredibly comfortable—you can truly wear them all day. The stacked heel gives just the right amount of height while still feeling stable, and the saddle nappa leather is a beautiful, goes-with-everything neutral. And if September stays mild, these will carry you right through the month in style.
Quince Italian Handwoven Leather Mini Shoulder Bag
This Quince bag is such a good find. It’s almost identical to the Clare V version that goes for close to $500—I actually saw them side by side and was fooled for a second. The leather feels soft and luxe, the woven texture adds instant polish, and the size is just right for everyday.
When I first mentioned it as a close dupe for Clare V, so many of you grabbed it right away, and I don’t blame you. For just over $100, it’s an easy fall update and one of those pieces you’ll be glad you have on hand.
J.Crew Factory Drapey Denim Trouser
These J.Crew Factory Drapey Denim Trousers are soft, comfortable, and such a nice change from skinny denim. The trouser cut makes them easy to dress up or down, and the lighter wash feels fresh for early fall. They’ve quickly become a best seller with our community, which makes sense—they really do fit and feel better than most denim at this price point. If you need to have them shortened, just ask your tailor to keep the detail at the hem—it’s what makes them look polished. For reference I am 5’10 and can only wear these with flats.
At this point, I think it’s safe to say this bag is a Well Dressed Life classic. If we ever had a convention, we’d all show up wearing it because just about everyone owns one by now. It’s easy, well made, and comes in gorgeous neutrals with the option to add a chic little monogram. For under $100, it’s one of those pieces that works everywhere—from running errands to travel—and has become a forever favorite in our community
Faherty Dune Cotton Gauze Popover
This easy little popover has been on repeat for me—it’s lightweight, soft, and the kind of top you can throw on with jeans or shorts and still feel put together. I love the relaxed shape and gauzy texture, especially in white. Right now it’s marked down to under $50 (originally $98), which makes it a fantastic buy.
This one’s already on sale, but don’t forget you can use my code THEWELLDRESSEDLIFE20 for 20% off full-priced pieces at Faherty.
J.Crew Cuffed Wide-Leg Trouser in Luster Canvas
These trousers are a polished workwear staple you can dress up or down. The wide leg and cuffed hem keep the silhouette modern, while the luster canvas fabric gives them structure without feeling stiff.
They’re also a J.Crew best seller, which makes sense—the fit and fabric are just that good.
One quick tip: if they feel a little slim through the hips, size up and have them taken in at the waist for a custom fit. Right now they’re marked down from $112 making them an even smarter buy.
I can’t believe how many of the Nori Press sold after I casually mentioned that we keep one at home and that I bought another for Maddie’s dorm. It’s a clever little steamer/iron hybrid that doesn’t need an ironing board and makes getting wrinkles out so much easier. Right now it’s 25% off for Labor Day, which makes it a great time to grab one if you’ve been thinking about it.
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