If I had to pick one range from CHANEL that I absolutely adore, then that has to be Les Beiges and this year’s collection is all about that carefree summer glow from head to toe … in an oversize fashion, I might add. Let’s just say that I’m definitely going to indulge in a CHANEL summer.
Follow @ommorphia YouTube ♦ Instagram ♦ Facebook ♦ Twitter ♦ Pinterest ♦ Bloglovin’
Oversize Kabuki Brush, limited edition (CAN $72.00) | An amped-up version of the brand’s Mini Kabuki Brush, this was designed to be used for both face and body. It comes with its own square-shaped velour pouch to help keep the brush dust-free and makes it convenient to store, especially while travelling. The synthetic bristles are dense and luxuriously soft, enabling you to not only apply product where needed, but to also blend it out beautifully. While I’ve used the smaller version with cream bronzer, I wouldn’t recommend using something this large for that as it’s definitely more suited for powder (in particular, the new Les Beiges Oversize Healthy Glow Powders — review coming soon). The shorter handle fits nicely in the palm of the hand and provides excellent control for application.
Les Beiges N° 392 Soleil Tan Medium Bronze (CAN $60.00) | This is the newest addition to the Soleil Tan family, and I couldn’t be happier. As a long time fan of this cream bronzer — I’ll even go so far as to state that it’s my absolute FAVE cream bronzer — this shade was definitely missing from the lineup, and I’m happy to see that CHANEL filled the gap. Housed in a large plastic jar that includes a protective inner cap, the surface is wide enough that you can use a variety of brushes with it. The formula contains waxes for an ultra-smooth application, powders to provide a soft & velvety finish, and nacres which give depth and an almost imperceptible shimmer. Depending on the look, you can apply it with a paddle brush for a more chiselled contour effect, or a dense foundation brush (my preferred method) for a sun-kissed appearance. Incredibly easy to blend out, I find that the finish just keeps getting better with wear, as the product merges with your skin’s warmth and oils for the most natural-looking look.
In comparing all the shades of this bronzer, you can clearly see in the swatches below that the original version has a different finish — a touch more matte which was immediately apparent when I placed it beside the reissued 2020 Bronze Universel (reviewed in detail here). The Deep Bronze shade which was released in 2021 (reviewed in detail here) was a welcome addition and while I initially assumed it would be too dark for me, I still find myself reaching for it more that the lighter hues, as I can blend it out seamlessly for when I want more of a tanned look. That said, it’s definitely a shade that works better for me when my skin takes on a bit of colour, as I do have to buff it in more to make it look more natural otherwise. The newest Medium Bronze shade is spot-on perfect, both for right now and one I’ll still be able to use later in the summer. Something tells me that this shade is about to reach cult-fave status … you heard it here first.
Les Beiges Illuminating Oil Face, Body and Hair, limited edition (CAN $107.00) | Housed in a large square glass bottle, this ‘dry oil’ was created to work in harmony with the entire concept of the Les Beiges range. Meant to be rubbed in, it does sink into the skin to a certain degree without ever leaving any oily residue behind, and is filled with ultra fine gold and copper shimmer. The formula is enriched with plant-derived oils and the subtle fragrance is just heavenly; it smells like the softest hints of beach-warmed skin. As the name says, you can apply few drops to the face for a delicate shimmery touch; while you can certainly pat this oil gently over foundation, I prefer it on makeup free skin. You can also rub it in along arms, legs and décolleté — or other areas of the body you want to draw a bit of light to. Finally, it can also be applied to hair, but I’d stick to the ends and up to mid lengths for that; any glints seen will be subtle, but it helps to tame flyaways as well as adding a touch of moisture.
Note that the product needs to be gently shaken before application.
I’m going to keep this short: I love everything. As in, majorly LOVE. If like me, you’re a fan of the Les Beiges range along with anything summer-inclined, then I say you won’t want to miss out on these lovelies. Remember that both the brush and the oil are limited edition — and I can guarantee you that they’ll sell out lightning fast … just giving you a heads up!
Available at CHANEL counters and online
Kindly provided by CHANEL for my unbiased consideration