Fashion and Beauty: Creme of the Crop

We waded through a wave of new beauty products and picked our favorites to get you through the summer doldrums.

-- Holly E. Thomas and Michelle Thomas

1. MAC Cosmetics Mineralize Skinfinish powder in Triple Fusion ($27 at MAC stores and www.maccosmetics.com)

HT: Every summer, I fall in love with a different highlighting powder. This option yields a flattering, rosy bronze glow on cheekbones, decolletage and collarbones.

MT: Highlighting powders: meh. But this shimmering three-shade version is subtle and pretty.

2. Clinique Sun SPF 45 Targeted Protection sunscreen stick ($17.50 at department stores and www.clinique.com)

HT: I use a face moisturizer with SPF religiously, but sporting a pixie-like crop means I have to protect my ears, too. This little gem makes for an easy application.

MT: Eight. That's how many products are in my purse in case of beauty-related emergencies. So obviously I love that this sunscreen stick is portable.

3. Peaches & Boo Boo Save My Feet lotion ($20 at www.peachesandbooboo.com)

HT: I slicked this stuff on twice -- before slipping into my Chucks for a few hours of walking, and on a workday with my most uncomfortable peep-toe pumps. After a full day in each pair, I was blissfully blister-free.

MT: My blister-prone boss adores this one. I'm headed straight for it before the next time I step out in five-inch strappy sandals.

4. L'Oreal EverPure Moisture shampoo and conditioner (about $7 at mass retailers and www.drugstore.com)