Elizabeth Arden | Sunkissed Pearls Bronzer and Highlighter (LE)
Maybe it’s because I’m a Summer-baby (born in July), or possibly because I always wanted to be a mermaid (my lack of strong swimming skills basically killed that idea), or most likely because I am still obsessed with – and constantly reach for – last year’s limited edition bronzers from Elizabeth Arden, but the minute I laid eyes (see my preview post here) on this Sunkissed Pearls Bronzer and Highlighter (created by the incredibly talented Rebecca Restreppo – Global Makeup Artist for Elizabeth Arden, and one of the most genuine women it has ever been my pleasure to meet)) with its seashell and pearl pattern, the anticipation began to build: it would be mine.
Sunkissed Pearls Bronzer and Highlighter in Warm Pearl 01 (CAN $48.00) is a gorgeous trio in a clamshell/pearl embossed pattern that consists of 2 bronzing shades (lighter tan on the left/largest portion – deeper tan on the right) and a softly shimmering pink highlighter hue, which also comes with an included silver metallic demi-lune brush, in a pearly white case with a large clear window on the cover (made in Italy – major points scored for that). The quality of the brush is surprisingly good, with a wide enough shape to apply broad sweeps of colour but with enough density to the bristles that it can also be used along its side for more precise application. That being said, I still prefer using my own brushes for the job just the same (I usually use several brushes for bronzer application, so maybe it’s a personal thing).
Key ingredients:
- Vitamin E – protectant against environmental stressors which contribute to visible signs of aging
- Argan Oil – rich in beneficial nutrients including fatty acids, to help keep skin feeling soft and moisturized
- Illuminating Microlight Minerals – optical diffusers that work to scatter light and soften the look of fine lines and wrinkles
The quality of the two tan powders is buttery soft and non-powdery whatsoever – the same applies to the highlighter, for the record. The largest & lightest tan portion is camel-coloured and slightly peach/rose tinted, appearing to have more shimmer than the deeper bronzing hue, although that shimmer is so incredibly fine-milled that it serves to add radiance to the face – without being obvious about it. The darker bronzing section is more of a true tan colour, although subtlety is the operating word for the shades of this compact, meaning that it will be hard to overdo things (which is a very good point, where bronzers are concerned). The pink highlighter portion has the most obvious shimmer of the three, but once again it’s so finely milled that it adds luminosity and stays far away from the dreaded mirror-ball effect. It should be stated that while all three hues lean on the warm side, I can definitely see the lighter bronzing portion working beautifully on those with very fair skin, while the highlighter has enough pigmentation to even double as a light blush. For dark/very dark complexions, I suspect that the highlighter section will be the only usable shade of the trio – and will look simply awesome in that capacity.
When all three shades are combined, the effect is a perfect merging of light bronze and light pink reflection (note: the darker bronzing section can be built up for more depth) and fuses beautifully with the skin’s natural oils, giving off a healthy-looking, sun kissed glow. As with all bronzers, these shades “develop”; what that means, is that after initial application, wait a few minutes before adding more as the product will develop & evolve with your skin’s warmth and natural oils. This tip will save you from ever overdoing it, trust me.
Elizabeth Arden | Sunkissed Pearls Bronzer and Highlighter, all three shades blended
I’ve probably said this a million times before, but Elizabeth Arden is a brand that has been flying under most people’s radar for quite some time now – but here’s the thing: the products are truly amazing. As a beauty blogger, I’m fortunate enough to get to try many different brands, while as a consumer I’m also quite selective about which brands finally make it to my vanity table – and all I can say, is that just like last year’s versions, the Sunkissed Pearls Bronzer and Highlighter delivers. I personally wish it were also available in a darker triad of shades, but since the entire scope of the collection is more about an ethereal aquatic theme, then this grouping makes sense. With regards to packaging, I’m a little torn; on the one hand, the plastic compact keeps things lightweight and it really is pretty with its pearly gleam, but feels more ‘drugstore’ than ‘department store’ which is so totally at odds with the exceptional quality of the actual product. At the end of the day, it should always be about the quality, but as I’m a sucker for more luxe-looking packaging (especially with a brand like this which totally deserves to be showcased better) I would say that if Elizabeth Arden needs to work on anything, it’s that. Certainly not a deal-breaker however and knowing what I do about their products, that doesn’t stop me from highly recommending this little beauty. Just remember that it is limited edition, so fair warning.
Available now through select Shopper’s Drug Mart/Pharmaprix stores, London Drugs and Hudson’s Bay (direct link provided for your convenience). More information via elizabetharden.ca
Press sample kindly provide for my unbiased consideration
