When it comes to illuminators, I’m a tri-tester… meaning, I’ll try anything once. The highlighters I love are quickly integrated in to my daily beauty routine and depending on the look I’m going for, it’s a merry-go-round of illuminators. Most recently, Benefit’s Fine One One illuminator showed up on my doorstep and while at first glance I was a little hesitant (the neapolitan medley of pink champagne, watermelon and coral threw me off), I couldn’t be happier with the results.
Use it on cheeks and lips for a pretty blend of color that will instantly lift, shape and pop. One of the many reasons I love Benefit is the knack they have for creating versatile products that are portable and easy to use on-the-go (I’m totally going to pack this in my cross body during Fashion Week!). If you leave your favorite lipstick or lip gloss at home, this is also a perfect substitute. Use your pinky to dab on your lips for color or rub on for a sheer finish.
I’m sure I’m not the only girl that would readily admit The Great Gatsby is one of my all-time favorite books, but most recently after watching a portion of The Golden Globes, I was so inspired by some of the Roaring 20s beauty looks, I figured it’ll ease the anxious wait before the big remake on the big screen this May. Paying homage to classic favorites (the red lip, a timeless fragrance and true pink blush) while mixing it up with some new twists (tinted moisturizer, long-wear gel liner and a lip and cheek stain in liquid form), I’ve rounded up some favorite Great Gatsby inspired products that will help channel your inner Daisy Buchanan for any late night affair.
The perks of applying makeup in the winter? Glossing your face with highlighter and knowing that it won’t melt down your face like it does in the hot summer months (been there, done that). So it’s no surprise that this post is dedicated to all you illuminating lovers out there. I’ve rounded up my tried and true luminizers (from an extremely affordable $1 pick to can’t-live-without high-end goodies) that are perfect for a night out on the town or for on-the-go appearances. I find that shades of pearly pinks is universally flattering on almost any skin tone. For the ultimate winter glow, make sure you apply moisturizer prior to highlighter to prevent flaky or dry skin. Blend around the temples, top of cheek bones, bridge of nose and cupid’s bow (the outline of your upper lip) for a sweet and dewy finish.
Now that Thanksgiving has officially come and gone, the shopping, tree lighting and Christmas movies are finally here and I couldn’t be more excited for the holiday season. After some spritzing, brushing and sampling of the latest holiday must-haves, I’m ready to share with you my favorite gift ideas for some common beauty personalities. First up, the trendsetter: she is the ultimate beauty taste-maker. She loves to shop the newest trends and products and keeps up with every brand.
Chances are if you’ve been following the 2012 Election like me, you’ve acquired some dark circles. And no, I’m not referring to all the fights with friends of a different party affiliation! I’m talkin’ about the endless scrolling on Binders Full Of Women Tumblr and those SNL late night debate skits! Anyways, there is not a day that goes by that I don’t walk out of the house without any concealer (mainly because if I did, I’d look like a raccoon). But as a blogger and frequent product tester, I am overwhelmed with new concealers that are supposed to be the bees knees of makeup.
Thanks to the fine prints of Marie Claire’s beauty section and Allure mag, I’ve picked up some important tips (no tricks) when it comes to properly applying concealer: Concealer is best applied with either a brush or the pad of the middle finger, using several dots and lightly blending to build gradual coverage. For under eye and dark circle coverage, apply concealer before foundation. For blemishes and pesky pimples, apply concealer after foundation (if you apply before, the concealer will rub off). Use a fine loose powder on top to set your concealer.
Whether you’re on a budget or ready to invest in a long-term multi-tasking concealer, I’ve rounded up five of my tried and true concealer favorites. Whether it’s in a stick, a jar or a wand, we just need something that works. If you prefer a concealer that boasts long-lasting coverage for a minimal price, try Maybelline’s Super Stay Concealer. If you live for creamy concealer kits, Bobbi Brown and Benefit Cosmetics both offer kits that include bonus eye prep products like a corrector (used before a concealer to correct any color problems) or highlighter. Those who have concern for fine lines and wrinkles, invest in Perricone MD No Concealer Concealer that offers double duty coverage and anti-aging properties. Finally, I love NYX Concealer Stick for on-the-go touch-ups to camouflage blemishes.