When Life Gives You Lemons
No. 30
Welcome to Style / Substance, a weekly newsletter about personal style, the business and psychology of fashion, and outfit and brand recommendations - all to make your life easier. You can subscribe here and follow me on Instagram at @LauraKSawyier. Thank you!
Revisiting this newsletter's No. 15 issue about showing support by wearing colors, blue and yellow, at the onset of the Russia-Ukraine war. This is poignant given the devastating blow (put extremely politely) to women's rights due to the Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization supreme court ruling. There are many ways to use your voice to show solidarity, support, or make a statement of protest. Clothing is one such communication tool.
The intentional selection of garment styles, colors, and symbols has been used for centuries to make declarations by groups. Notably: white worn by the Suffragettes, "Sunday Best" during the civil rights movement, peace signs, rainbow accessories for LGBTQ+ pride, pink pussy hats, and the green neckerchiefs (and all clothing for that matter) that originated in Argentina for abortion rights and are now showing up in protests across the US against overturning Roe.
The power of colored clothing and accessories and the semiotics of fashion remain strong today. They will continue this way.
Why do we reach for uniformity of colors and symbols in times of strife? Because it works. Aligning around the nuances or apparent aspects of fashion brings the individual into the fold of a greater movement or cause. It's encouraging. It rallies and bands people to come together. It allows you to express yourself and your position in a bold, public way.
It's not just colors; it's styles, graphics, and statement accessories. It's a unifying product supporting a more significant cause rooted in symbolism, fundraising, building dissent while rallying community engagement, and making voices heard loud and clear. It's a call to action.
Here are a few brands that are resolute in women’s equal rights and access to safe abortions, including featured make-a-statement products that donate proceeds directly to various pro-choice organizations:
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The No Makeup, Makeup Glow
How To Apply Reliable Products For A Summery Sheen
I’m all about minimal makeup, and many of you have been asking about beauty tips lately. For someone with dry skin, the glow can sometimes translate to dewy, which translates to me looking like I’m sweating all over my face. If you have more oily skin, the desire to tone down extra shine can be a challenge. Not to worry, I’ve got you covered.
Here’s a balanced approach to an effortless summery glow for all.
Shop these go-to beauty products:
Moisturize: Retrouvé 1 oz. Nutrient Face Serum OR Dr. Hauschka Revitalizing Day Cream - A good, light-weight moisturizer gets to job done when priming your face. Primers aren’t for everyone, and that’s okay. Be sure the moisture is light and breathable, and you let it set in with your neutralizer before applying foundation entirely.
Neutralize: Charlotte Tilbury Magic Vanish Color Corrector - Believe that magic is an accurate depiction of its name. This conceals any change in pigmentation, priming the skin for a brighter appearance.
Balance:
Westman Atelier Vital Skin Foundation Stick - Be sure to get your natural or as close-to skin tone with this foundation. The key is to not overdo the layering of this.
Estee Lauder Brush-On Glow BB Highlighter (my go-to and sold out all over currently) THE RUNNER UP IS Yves Saint Laurent Beaute Touche Eclat All-Over Brightening Pen - Creamy, moisturizing, and always illuminates in the right ways. Apply around eyes, forehead, and mouth with small brush strokes, don’t go too heavy. You can always touch up with more.
Jones Road Beauty The Face Pencil - Especially vital for blemished and shaded corners like eyes, nose, and lips + it’s the touch-up stick that is always on me, wherever I go.
Brighten:
Jones Road Beauty Just A Sec Eyeshadow - Multi-functional eye shade… use it for brighter and sparkly layering of eyeshadow or a subtle swipe for something simple. Apply just below the eyebrow and around to the top of the cheekbone (gently) for a brighter expression around your eyes.
Charlotte Tilbury Glowgasm Face Palette - A range of blush, bronzer, and golden highlighter to wear toned down or turned up. The glittery combination gives a gentle glow to all skin tones.
Protect: Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen - It’s so good you barely notice it’s there doing its magic and sole job of protecting your skin. Apply post-makeup or after you moisturize. It’s a preference, and both are suitable.
*Consult with your dermatologist or beauty expert if you’re unsure of certain products. I’m endorsing products that work on my skin and understand each person has personalized skin-care needs and restrictions.
The Latest
Further reinforced: Clothing and color choices are a significant part of social and political movements.
Need to turn your mind off briefly? Keep busy with your hands and complete tasks that satisfy a beginning and end. Personal accomplishments - including the small wins - are necessary right now. Bonus, complete some of these tasks, and your home environment will make you feel better.
Missed out on the latest styling tips and tricks? Watch these styling videos (and subscribe). They’re sure to inspire you to mix and match what you own and love.
