This July, we’re prioritising quiet glamour, essential self-care, and meaningful moments while exploring the world, starting with Milano Unica.
As July unfurls here in Lagos, the familiar rhythm of the city shifts with the wet season now fully upon us. The air grows heavier, the skies more dramatic, and many begin to pack their bags for a well-deserved vacation. For me, however, July marks a different kind of journey — a professional one that takes me across continents to the bustling halls of Milano Unica in Italy. While many are unwinding, I’m gearing up for the vibrant pulse of the fashion world, a delightful contrast to the season’s quiet embrace.
Travel, for all its excitement and discovery, can often be a whirlwind. It’s easy to get swept up in the demands of deadlines, networking, or simply the thrill of new experiences, only to find yourself feeling drained and out of sync. In the beautiful chaos of exploring new places, it’s all too common to let personal well-being slip to the bottom of the priority list. That’s why, for me, successful travel isn’t just about the destination; it’s about intentionally weaving in moments of self-care and replenishment, meticulously planned before I even step onto the plane.
So, whether you’re embarking on a work trip like mine or escaping for a much-needed holiday, this month’s Elevate & Illuminate edit focuses on those essential, cosy companions that make any journey feel more graceful and grounding. These are my handpicked favourites for finding quiet moments and glamorous fun, ensuring that even while away, you’re looking after yourself, being beautiful for yourself, and staying totally yourself.
Find them all here:
Beauty, Refined: jet-setting in sunny weather
Keeping the moisture locked in
When you’re navigating the often-unpredictable world of travel, your skin is usually the first to feel the impact. From the arid cabin air of an aeroplane to sudden shifts in humidity and temperature, your complexion can quickly go from dewy to distressed. Dryness, tightness, and a lack of radiance become unwelcome souvenirs. But fear not, because this July, we’re arming you with a curated collection of skincare heroes designed to keep your skin plump, hydrated, and glowing, no matter where your adventures take you. These aren’t just products; they’re your personal moisture maestros, ensuring your skin remains a picture of well-being from the moment you take off to your glamorous arrival.
Rooibos Glow Toner
₦16,250
Uncover
This toner is pure magic, and an absolute must for my travel kit. It feels like a cool, refreshing glass of water on my skin — an incredible sensation, especially after a long flight or a day of exploring. Incredibly lightweight, it absorbs instantly without any sticky residue, making it perfect for layering or quick hydration boosts on the go. This toner is a true moisture maestro, ensuring my skin stays balanced and dewy even amidst arid airport environments and shifting climates.
Perfect Super Rich Cream
₦10,100
celleos
Following my toner, this is the ultimate seal of hydration. What I absolutely adore about this cream is its ability to lock in everything I’ve applied beforehand — all my serums, essences, and that refreshing toner. Its rich texture ensures that once it’s on, my skin feels utterly protected and nourished, creating a powerful barrier against the harsh elements of travel. It’s the perfect way to ensure my complexion remains deeply moisturised and comfortable, giving me that confident glow no matter how many time zones I cross.
Serums for nighttime recovery
Beyond keeping your skin hydrated, travel often exposes us to more sun and environmental stressors, which can unfortunately lead to unwanted hyperpigmentation or aggravate existing spots. While a broad-spectrum sunscreen is non-negotiable and something we all know to pack, the real secret weapon for keeping an even, radiant complexion lies in your nighttime recovery routine.
These serums are carefully selected to target those stubborn dark spots, working quietly while you rest to repair and rejuvenate your skin. They also ensure you wake up looking fresh and even ready for another day of adventure.
Even & Matte Vitamin C Booster Serum
₦16,730
Garnier
This lovely, subtly fruity serum is an absolute delight to use and a powerhouse for anyone looking to tackle pesky dark spots. It works tirelessly to brighten and even out your complexion, making it the perfect companion for maintaining a radiant look even with increased sun exposure during travel. Incorporating this into your nightly regimen ensures your skin recovers beautifully, keeping that coveted bright and uniform glow.
Mela B3 Dark Spot Serum With Melasyl™ + Niacinamide
₦63,550
La Roche-Posay
For serious dark spot intervention and skin barrier support, this serum is my go-to. This serum truly packs a punch, specifically formulated to target stubborn hyperpigmentation with its innovative Melasyl™ ingredient. What makes it even more indispensable for travel is the inclusion of Niacinamide, which actively works to strengthen and protect your skin barrier – a crucial defence against environmental stressors and climate changes. It’s a powerful combination that ensures your skin is not only working towards an even tone but also staying resilient and healthy, making it a cornerstone of my effective nighttime recovery routine.
Sunscreen remains non-negotiable
Let’s be unequivocally clear: no matter where your travels take you, a reliable sunscreen is your ultimate skin safeguard. This isn’t just about avoiding a painful sunburn; it’s about protecting your skin from the deeper, cumulative damage of UV rays that can accelerate ageing and, as we’ve discussed, exacerbate hyperpigmentation. Whether you’re sightseeing under the Italian sun or simply nestled by a window on a long-haul flight — yes, UV rays penetrate aeroplane windows — consistent sun protection is paramount. It’s the final, crucial step in your morning routine, offering a shield that allows you to explore the world with confidence and maintain your skin’s health and radiance.
UV Super Moisture Gel Sunscreen
₦14,784
Skin Aqua
As someone with dry skin, finding a sunscreen that offers robust protection without feeling heavy or, worse, drying, can be a challenge. This gem works wonders for me! It’s incredibly protective, ensuring broad-spectrum defence against harmful UV rays, yet it feels wonderfully moisturising. The gel texture is lightweight and absorbs beautifully, leaving my skin feeling comfortable and hydrated, never greasy. It truly makes daily sun protection a pleasure, especially when I’m on the go.
SPF 30 Brightening Moisturizer
₦41,369.40
Bolden
What I love about this is its dual power: it delivers effective SPF 30 protection, shielding your skin from daily UV exposure, while also working to brighten and unify your complexion. It’s a beautifully formulated moisturiser that feels substantial enough to nourish my dry skin, yet it melts seamlessly without any white cast. For travel, where simplifying your routine is key, this product truly shines, combining essential sun protection with active brightening benefits in one elegant step.
Style, Elevated: All the fun in the sun
Summer without sundresses? As if!
What’s summer, or any warm-weather escape for that matter, without the effortless charm of a sundress? For me, they’re the ultimate expression of relaxed glamour and joyful ease, especially when you’re on the go. This season, it’s all about embracing a pop of colour — think breathable fabrics, breezy cuts, and shades that are as bright and beautiful as the destinations you’re exploring.
These aren’t just dresses; they’re wearable moments of sunshine, perfect for everything from a leisurely breakfast in a new city to an impromptu evening stroll, keeping you cool, comfortable, and undeniably chic.
Stacy Maxi Dress in “Purple/Red”
$169
Meshki
This is a true showstopper. Halter necklines are always a win for making everyone look effortlessly chic, but it’s the colour of this dress that truly captivated me. The vibrant purple and fiery orange create a ravishing combination that truly pops against any skin tone. Beyond its stunning hue, the universal cut makes it incredibly flattering and comfortable for diverse body types, perfect for those long travel days or spontaneous evening plans.
Teri Crochet Dress in “Mustard”
₦320,000
Andrea Iyamah
For those moments that call for both comfort and undeniable style, this is my pick. I absolutely adore this piece for its luxurious loungewear appeal. The rich mustard hue is incredibly vibrant and uplifting, perfect for adding a pop of joyful colour to your travel wardrobe. Its relaxed crochet knit also feels wonderful against the skin, making it an ideal choice for unwinding in your hotel room, a leisurely brunch, or even a chic poolside moment. It truly blends effortless ease with a glamorous, vibrant aesthetic.
Stay fabulous with sunglasses
When we talk about fun in the sun, our focus often goes straight to skin protection, but true glamour and well-being demand that we don’t forget our eyes. Just like our skin, our eyes are susceptible to sun damage, and prolonged exposure can lead to discomfort and long-term issues. Plus, let’s be honest, nothing elevates a travel look quite like a fabulous pair of sunglasses! They’re not just a fashion statement; they’re an essential layer of protection, ensuring your eyes stay comfortable and healthy, allowing you to truly soak in every beautiful view your journey offers.
The Pilota sunglasses in “Multi Brown”
$350
Jacquemus
These aren’t just any shades; they’re a true statement piece that perfectly blends fashion and function. I absolutely love their versatility — the multi-brown tones make them incredibly easy to pair with almost any outfit, from casual travel ensembles to more dressed-up looks for an evening out. Beyond their undeniable style, they offer that crucial eye protection needed for bright days, making them an essential and glamorous companion for any destination.
Neith in “Amethyst”
$168.30
Vera Wang
For a touch of subtle sophistication and unique charm, I immediately think of these Vera Wang sunglasses. They’re simply captivating. What draws me in most is the exquisite amethyst hue – it’s a beautiful, rich shade that feels both luxurious and refreshingly different. Coupled with their elegant shape, these glasses strike that perfect balance of being eye-catching yet incredibly versatile, easily transitioning from a relaxed daytime stroll to a chic evening rendezvous. They’re a testament that protecting your eyes can be as beautiful as it is essential.
Mindful Living: as within, as without
Grounding on-the-go
While the excitement of new destinations is undeniably thrilling, the constant motion of travel can sometimes leave us feeling a little unmoored, far from the comforting routines of home. That’s why, for me, packing a few “travel home treats” is just as crucial as packing my passport. These aren’t just items; they’re anchors, small luxuries designed to help you remain grounded, centred , and deeply connected to your inner peace, no matter how many time zones you cross. They’re about bringing a slice of serene familiarity with you, turning any hotel room or transit lounge into a tranquil personal haven.
Scented Candle in “Myrrh & Tonka”
£35
Jo Malone
When it comes to candles, I am absolutely obsessed! There’s something incredibly powerful about scent, and this particular blend—rich, warm, and subtly intoxicating—instantly transforms any unfamiliar space into a comforting sanctuary. Lighting this candle in my hotel room creates an immediate sense of calm and familiarity, helping me unwind and feel utterly at ease, no matter how far I am from home. It’s my little ritual for bringing a piece of my personal haven with me.
Natural Benefits: Immune
₦3,000
Ahmad Tea
For those of us who find our systems a little sensitive to the stresses of travel, this tea is a game-changer. If you’re anything like me, the whirlwind of new environments, varied sleep schedules, and general travel demands can sometimes leave your immune system feeling a bit vulnerable. That’s why I always pack a few sachets of this tea. It’s a wonderful, natural booster that offers a comforting ritual in itself. A warm cup of this tea provides not just a moment of quiet relaxation but also a gentle, proactive way to support your well-being from the inside out, helping you stay resilient and ready for whatever your journey brings.
The Season’s Affirmations
As I curated these affirmations, a thought sparked: why not create travel-based affirmations? After all, self-awareness doesn’t hit pause just because you’re on-the-go. It’s lovely to get your mind right and stay conscious, no matter your location or what new experiences unfold around you. These affirmations are designed to be your mental companions, guiding you to find peace, joy, and a deep connection to yourself, whether you’re navigating bustling airports or soaking in the quiet charm of a new city.
Here are 10 affirmations to help you rediscover the joy of taking care of yourself:
1.
I embrace every journey, knowing my well-being travels with me.
2.
I find moments of quiet glamour in every new experience.
3.
I am beautiful for myself; radiant from the inside out.
4.
I am grounded, even as I explore the world.
5.
I elevate my spirit and illuminate my path with conscious care.
6.
I prioritise my peace amidst every adventure.
7.
My energy is renewed with every mindful moment.
8.
I am open to discovery, both within and around me.
9.
Every experience enriches my soul.
10.
I travel with grace, joy, and unwavering self-love.
Jet-setting in style, wherever you are
As you embark on your own July adventures — be it for work, leisure, or simply navigating the beautiful rhythm of daily life — remember that true elevation and illumination come from within. These curated picks are more than just products or fashion statements; they’re gentle reminders to carve out those moments of quiet glamour and intentional self-care, ensuring you feel grounded, radiant, and utterly yourself, no matter where the journey takes you.
Beyond the logistical planning, self-care while travelling becomes a profound opportunity to reconnect with yourself amidst new surroundings. It’s about indulging in those whimsical touches that truly make your spirit sing — whether it’s the comforting scent of a candle in an unfamiliar hotel room or the vibrant pop of a dress that mirrors the joy you feel exploring. Looking after yourself in this way isn’t just a chore; it’s a profound privilege and a vibrant exercise in joy that helps you fully absorb and appreciate every new experience without feeling drained.
So, let this July be a beautiful testament to the power of tending to your spirit, finding joy in every new vista, and always shining brightly for yourself. Embrace the rituals, big or small, that replenish your energy and make you feel truly seen, by yourself, for yourself. You are worthy of every moment of care you give, both at home and on the road.
Welcome to our Travel Special
Love always,
P.S – Special thanks to My Lab Africa for the Perfect Super Rich Cream by celleos, and La Roche-Posay for the Mela B3 Dark Spot Serum With Melasyl™ + Niacinamide by La Roche-Posay.
