Weekend Notes: 8.2.26
The weekly top, the flats that get me through thousands of steps, what's on my radar from COS, and lots more goodness.
Hi! August check-in. How’s everyone doing? What have you all been up to?
It’s been a pretty slow East Coast summer over here. We’ve been splitting our time between the lake, the kids’ summer camp, playing tourist in the city, and the occasional beach day. My husband has been on standby, waiting for his next project to come in (he works on the sound), so we haven’t planned any big family trips. I’m hoping we can sneak away somewhere before the summer ends.
On a personal note, I’m heading to London for a few days at the end of the month. I’ll be meeting up with a girlfriend, but I’m also looking forward to some solo wandering, shopping, and catching a show in the West End (maybe Matilda?). It’s been more than 10 years since my last visit, so if you have any favorite restaurants, neighborhoods, shops, or anything else you think I shouldn’t miss, I’d appreciate any recommendations!
Links & Things:

At home with Jane Birkin.
A look back at Princess Diana and 12 of her most stunning summer looks.
12 destination ideas where you can fully unplug
What can I do about my hands?
What’s your policy on ‘bad language?’
Behind the scenes of The Five Star Weekend.
How to keep cut flowers fresh.
Alexa Chung has been brilliantly sharing her outfits via her doorbell camera.
Mmmmm. Chickpeas al Limone With Burrata.
How to stop being so defensive during arguments.
Eyeing, Buying & Things Worth Noting:

To echo the above, I ended up ordering these Chan Luu pants in bronze and sage, but am keeping the sage (the same color that she’s wearing). For sizing reference, the pants come in three sizes: 1, 2 and 3. I went with the size 2 and wear a 28 in jeans (but am trying to get back into a 27 *sigh*)
If you’re a fan of Allies of Skin, my code HELENA gets you 25% off most of the range that’s sold on DermStore. I recently tried the lip balm and it’s as good as many of you said it was.
A great top for your higher waisted pieces.
Eyeing from COS: this mock-neck cardigan, this red henley and this striped t-shirt.
This SPF is fabulous and adds such a gorgeous glow to the skin.
These are the best cuticle clippers.
The Weekly Top:

You can also find the above in this format, which might be easier to navigate for some.
A few things to mention:
I’ve been wearing this SPF 50 on my face all summer long.
This Khaite clutch is pure perfection. On the topic, a few luxury handbags that are on my radar.
I recently got this laptop sleeve and it makes me feel so put together when traveling or commuting.
A huge shoutout to these Le Monde Beryl Luna flats. They get me through thousands and thousands of city steps without ever hurting my feet.
For a walking, classic pair that doesn’t break the bank, everyone always raves about these.
Also, these new Le Monde Beryl mules are speaking to me for fall.
I’m back to using my ZIIP Halo and when used regularly, it’s the best little device for firming and lifting the face. (Code: HODNE for 10% off).
This setting spray has been a lifesaver from keeping my makeup from completely melting off. When I mentioned it on Instagram, I had one person also recommend this one from Saie. She said “I love the One/Size for night and the Saie for day.”
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xo,
Helena



Am also eying the red COS henley top!
Loved this read! Let us know how you like the pants!