Life Style

Most of the year I stay out of the sun and don’t mind my pale complexion one bit. If Anne Hathaway can do it, why can't I? And if I should feel paler than pale I use self tanner to give myself a bit of color. A few years ago, I was faced with a dilemma when I had a red carpet event to attend in rainy February and while I didn’t want to self tan, my legs needed something. Megan, my genius of a sister, handed me what looked like deodorant and said, “just try it.” Like I said, she’s a genius.

Michael Kors Leg Shine is really a clever concept. It isn’t a bronzer but instead a subtly tinted moisturizing bar that glides over legs, knees and ankles with ease (that deodorant shape makes application a breeze). My legs looked healthier, with a bit of shine that made them look longer and more toned. Thanks, Mae! The Leg Shine comes in three shades: Classic, Shimmer and Bronze, but none are actually bronzers. For that, I’d probably go with tarte’s Glam Gams or LORAC’s Tantalizer, which Sarah raved about here.

I’ve also found that in a pinch, it helps even out color if tanner streaks in a spot if you're out the door. Personally, I've found that giving it a good 20 minutes to dry means no worry about stains on light colored fabrics or the car seat. It has great staying power but it washes off pretty easily. Overall, I am impressed.

The only potential downside is the scent. It is infused with Michael Kors signature fragrance MICHAEL, a heady note of tuberose blended with some spicier and muskier fragrances. Some love tuberose but it isn’t for everyone. Because I only wear it on my legs (some make it an arm and upper body shine, too), I find the scent dissipates pretty quickly. In a perfect world they’d have a fragrance free version. But for now the fact it's it’s paraben free and not tested on animals makes me happy.

If you’re curious but not ready to commit, try the Sephora exclusive Michael Kors Leg Shine to Go, a small version of the Classic formula for $10. I keep one in my toiletry bag as it’s perfect for travel. xo a.