GBY Co-Founder Kendra on her Summer Must-Haves
Summer in LA hits different. It’s hot, it’s fast, and it’s always full of last-minute everything—events, weekend trips, a text that turns into dinner that turns into dancing. Between styling clients, running GBY, and curating shows at Medium Exchange, I don’t have time for anything that doesn’t pull its weight.
These are the products I actually use every day to stay hydrated, glowing, and just the right amount of extra. This list isn’t about trends or fluff. It’s what’s really in my bag, my bathroom, and my beach tote right now.
1. SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Sun Serum
This is the sunscreen that doesn’t feel like sunscreen. No white cast, no greasy film, and it plays nice with makeup. I recommend it to every client.
2. La Mer The Hydrating Infused Emulsion
This is my skin’s reset button. I use it after long days, on red-eye flights, or when I want to look fresh without trying. Rich but never heavy.
3. Mugler Alien Goddess Perfume
I call this my main character scent. It’s warm, floral, and magnetic. Not too sweet, not too strong. Just makes people lean in a little closer.
4. L’Occitane Almond Body Oil
Glowy skin in a bottle. I put this on after the shower when my skin’s still damp. It smells expensive and leaves you silky, not sticky.
5. Saie Slip Tint
Easy, glowy, foolproof. When I want to even out my skin without looking too “done,” this is it. I keep one in the car and one at the studio.
6. Too Faced Chocolate Soleil Melting Bronzer
A little swipe of this and I look like I just got back from vacation. It blends seamlessly and smells like dessert. What more do you need?
7. The Inkey List Tripeptide Lip Balm in Mocha Brown
Perfect sheer brown with plumping peptides. I throw this on with no other makeup and feel pulled together. It’s nostalgic in the best way.
8. d’Alba White Truffle Spray Serum
A total game changer. I use it to prep skin, set makeup, or just refresh in the car between appointments. Hydrating and luxe.
9. Nécessaire Deodorant in Olibanum
This is the only clean deodorant I’ve tried that actually works. It smells subtle but chic and keeps me feeling fresh all day.
10. Biologique Recherche Crème Contour des Yeux VIP O2
I’ve tried a million eye creams and always come back to this one. It brightens, de-puffs, and gives me that “slept eight hours” look, even when I didn’t.
And because summer isn’t just about skincare...
I put together a playlist of what’s been playing while I do my makeup, drive to the gallery, or get ready for a night out. It’s a mix of dreamy, flirty, and just a little chaotic—basically my whole mood this season. Scroll down to listen.
Stay glowy, stay hydrated.
xo,
Kendra
Cofounder, GBY Beauty & Medium Exchange Gallery