The move from summer to autumn feels like one of the seasons’ most dramatic shifts. Everything about our lifestyles changes, from how we exercise (with fewer long walks and more gym sessions) to where we eat (candlelit suppers instead of al-fresco dining). So, it makes sense that our beauty and wellness routines change, too. That’s where this travel-friendly beauty and wellness edit comes in. So prepare to hunker down and embrace autumn in all its magical glory – these are the products to covet this season.
The best autumn make-up (that fits in your hand luggage)
Chanel Ombre Premier Libre is a limited collection of six eyeshadows with a difference. The texture falls between a matte and a shimmer, with a satiny look that glides across the lids. There’s no need for blending or brushes as the sponge-tip applicator is easy to use, and it looks incredible on its own without any need for contouring or any other colours. I love 406 Cèdre Cuivré, a light bronzey-gold shade; it’s a soft, easy autumnal make-up update and an all-in-one travel-friendly pot. If you’re looking for the salted caramel version in nail polish, Dior Couture Colour Gel Effect Shine and Wear in Rouge Atelier 746 fits the brief. This limited edition shade embodies the change of the seasons with a terracotta pink base shot through with rose gold shimmer. It’s both understated and a statement, which is quite a feat. The beauty of this shade is that it goes with several other shades, so it won’t look jarring with bright clothes or more subdued tones. It’s the perfect neutral polish for travel.
If transitioning into matte lip shades after our extended and sporadic summer feels too bleak, try Westman Atelier Squeaky Clean Lip Balm in Pipsqueak created by make-up artist Gucci Westman. It delivers a veil of colour to the lips with a balm-like texture infused with nourishing glossy oils, but it stays on the lips like lipstick. It’s particularly useful for frequent fliers needing the hydration hit with a little added colour. Finally, meet Kosas Super Creamy + Brightening Concealer. This cult concealer is so lightweight and hydrating that I’ve been using it instead of foundation, just applied where I want a little coverage, leaving the rest of my skin bare. There are over 25 shades to pick from, and they’re super easy to blend, so they’re great on all skin types. The product is rated for its buildable coverage, so if you need to reapply it post-flight, it won’t cake at all.
The best perfumes to wear in autumn
Autumn is a distinct, energetic shift from the brightness of summer scents and lighter fragrances. Thankfully, there has never been a better selection of scents to cocoon you as the temperatures drop and the nights draw closer. Created by legendary perfumer Dominique Ropion, Penhaligon’s A Kiss Of Bliss contains a base of bergamot and rose, brightened by matcha tea and softened by musk and moss to create a gentle way to ease into the new autumnal mood. It’s like being at a cosy countryside retreat, but bottled. Likewise, Tom Ford Cafe Rose is the ultimate blend of rose absolute with a sophisticated chocolatey coffee note that hits the sweet spot between floral and gourmand without being cloying or sickly. One spritz and you’re transported away to a Parisian cafe, with the aromas of coffee and sweet patisseries lingering in the air.
Created by perfumer Delphine Jelk, Guerlain Tobacco Honey Eau De Parfum is a surprising scent that has a rich, smoky layer of tobacco alongside notes of honey, clove and tonka bean. It’s like a cashmere jacket worn at the most exclusive 1930s members’ club with lingering wafts of sweet cigars. It’s one for the evening. Finally, Parfums De Marly Althair is a majestic fusion of dark bourbon vanilla with surprising hints of cardamom, musk and praline. It’s an ultra-chic version of pumpkin spice and is perfect for anyone needing a burst of warmth in cooler climates.
The best skin products to buy this autumn
If you want to keep that summer glow when autumn strikes, here’s how. Mecca Cosmetica To Save Face SPF50+ is a non-negotiable base layer and ideal for frequent travellers, partially because of the generous size of the tube. It’s a cult buy for a reason; the formula sinks into the skin and is undetectable because it’s been formulated to wear with make-up (genius). It’s slightly mattifying but still leaves the skin feeling soothed and refreshed. If you struggle to wear SPF daily but want to minimise sun damage, this product will undoubtedly change your habits.
