CHANEL | Empreinte du Désert & Les Beiges Healthy Glow Multi-Colour Duo N°01, Summer 2016

For decades now, the one beauty collection that never fails to give me heart palpitations is none other than CHANEL’s summer release (for those of you who know me, this really shouldn’t come as any surprise), and this year’s version Dans La Lumière de l’Été (French for ‘in the light of Summer’ — so pretty, right?) so does not disappoint. Inspired by a shimmering desert oasis, these limited edition pieces are loaded with lush earthen and shimmering jewel-like tones and will have you reaching for them over and over again. Then there’s the quality … did I mention how fabulous these textures are?

CHANEL | Dans la Lumière d’Été 2016 Collection

CHANEL | Dans la Lumière de l’Été 2016 Collection

Empreinte du Désert Quadra Eyeshadow, limited edition (CAN $70.00) | Housed in the brand’s black lacquered compact with a full-sized mirror on the inner lid and the iconic double C’s on the cover, it opens to reveal four shimmering eyeshadow hues embossed with an undulating sand dune pattern. Texture-wise, each displays a complex but refined shimmer (no glittery chunks or fallout, thank you) and an almost creamy feel to the touch – providing perfect opacity and coverage even at one swipe (seriously: the swatches below are all one swipe). All shades are effortlessly bendable and stay true until removed (when worn over primer). The shade breakdown (clockwise from top left):

coppery sand
golden champagne
rich chestnut
deep emerald

CHANEL | Empreinte du Désert Quadra Eyeshadow Summer 2016

CHANEL | Empreinte du Désert Quadra Eyeshadow swatches, Summer 2016

Les Beiges Healthy Glow Multi-Colour Duo N°01, limited edition (CAN $74.00) | Housed in its signature beige lacquered square compact case with a full-sized mirror on the inner lid and accompanied by a demi-lune natural bristled brush (which actually works surprisingly well). One of two face powders from the collection (the other is a blush/highlighter duo), the Les Beiges claim to fame comes via the ultra finely-milled texture of the powder that is meant to provide your skin with a healthy-looking and flawless natural glow. A warm leaning duo, each segment of this duo is large enough that you can dip a brush in either without fear of cross-contamination, although you can always blend the two together for a uniquely customized hue. The bottom (darker) shade can be used for light contouring as well, while the lighter (upper) hue makes for a natural-looking bronzer that will suit a variety of skin tones (with the exception of those with really dark complexions). Staying power is excellent, easily lasting 10+ hours (over foundation) with only minor fading. The shade breakdown:

warm tan/sand
terracotta ochre

I have been a fan of the Les Beige formula since its inception, and I actually own all of the previous releases in my personal collection. The progression I’ve noticed over the years, is that not only does the formula continue to evolve and even improve, but the shade arrangement gets better and more user-friendly as well — but the biggest change is that this version seems to have eliminated the stronger scent of those that have come before, something I’m sure those with sensitivities will definitely welcome. That being said, I pulled out the two I felt were closest colour-wise for comparison: Les Beiges Healthy Glow Multi-Colour N°02 and Les Beiges Healthy Glow Marinière N°02 (last swatch) and while the texture and finish of each powder is fairly similar, colour wise there are still enough variances between them. In fact, it’s almost as though if you were to combine the other two, you’d get the tone of Healthy Glow Duo N°01.

CHANEL | Les Beiges Healthy Glow Multi-Colour Duo N°01 Summer 2016

CHANEL | Les Beiges Healthy Glow Multi-Colour Duo N°01 swatches, Summer 2016

CHANEL | Les Beiges Healthy Glow Multi-Colour Duo N°01 swatch comparisons

There is absolutely nothing I don’t love about these two pieces; from the elegantly classic packaging, the colours, and the textures – I am stating that both Empreinte du Désert and Les Beiges Healthy Glow Multi-Colour Duo N°01 are definitely worth splurging on. The tones of the quad will not only suit all eye colours, but can be dialled down or amped up to create a variety of looks and will easily take you from day to night. The Duo is basically all you need to complete your summer makeup, as it can double as both cheek colour and bronzer. Genius, wouldn’t you agree? All I can say, is well done CHANEL ∗slow clap∗

Available May 29th at The Bay, and on June 14th at all other CHANEL counters