My Every Day Makeup

I absolutely love reading these types of posts so I wanted to share mine!

My every day makeup is really basic. This is what I wear to work and to school, though sometimes I add more lip colour for school!

Here all the essentials.

Primer: Clinique

Concealer: MAC Studio Finish Concealer in shade NW15 and Nars Creamy Concealer in colour Vanilla

Foundation: Hourglass Immaculate (Liquid Powder Foundation, Mattifying) in colour Vanilla

Blush: Revlon in colour 'Haute Pink' 

Eyes: 

Primer- elf mineral (not shown)

Liner- Stila Stay All DayWaterproof and Rimmel Scandaleyes

Eye Shadow- Urban Decay Naked Basics

Mascara- Maybelline Falsies

Lips: Revlon Lip Butter (colour varies by day)

I first start with my primer. I like to put this on about 10 minutes after my moisturizer so it has had time to settle into my skin. This Clinique primer is great. I originally bought it simply because I was too worried to try anything else on my skin. It does a nice job of evening things out, makes my makeup stay longer and helps keep my skin less oily throughout the day. This is the standard one but they also options for dull skin, red skin etc. 

Next is concealer, I try to wait about 5 minutes after primer again to let things set. 

I currently use the MAC concealer on my spots as it has great coverage and is a perfect match for my skin colour. I use the Real Techniques base shadow brush for application. And sometimes my pinky finger for extra coverage. 

I use the Nars concealer for under my eyes. It does an excellent job covering my dark circles. It truly is creamy making it easy to blend. And I have yet to have any creasing. Its  newer purchase and I am loving it. I dont use it for my blemishes as the colour is a bit too dark and I dont find it gives enough coverage. But I know it works well on others for this purpose! I use my finger or the same RT brush for this. 

Next is the most critical part. Foundation! I got this one from Sephora recently. I wasnt in the market for a new foundation but they used that new technology that determines your exact colour match and then the lady tried it on me in store. SOLD. It truly matches perfectly. I chose this of my few options as it was matte, oil free and claims to help clear up acne while it is worn. Not sure about the last claim but it does give an immaculate finish to my skin. I wore this the first time on new years and I look like I have absolutely flawless skin, if I do say so myself. And I got lots of compliments on my makeup :) 

After the foundation a put a hint of blush on my cheeks. I love this Revlon colour, newly purchased, as it gives the look of fresh cold skin in the winter. Its quite natural but adds something to my pale winter skin. I apply using my Real Techniques blush brush.

(Me on New Years wearing the Immaculate foundation)

If I remember, I next put on eye shadow primer. But usually I forget. 

Next I apply the eyeshadow using two Real Technique Brushes (base shadow and deluxe crease). 

The colours vary on my mood for in general I use Naked2 as the base (third from right in picture above) and Faint in the crease. Lastly, using a random brush I have lying around I apply Venus (first on left) on the brow bone and tear ducts. This is one of the best highlighting colours Ive used. It, like all the other colours, is so pigmented, they barely crease all day and can all be combined so nicely. 

Lastly for the eyes is liner. The Stila eyeliner is the absolute BEST. Like I cant get over talking about it. I use it for a fair fine line along the lashes. Nothing dramatic, just to create a fuller lash line. It is so easy to create a fine, straight line using this product. The other eyeline pictured above is the Rimmel nude colour for my bottom waterline. It makes me look that much more awake. I really hate when my eye makeup is so nice and my ugly bas are concealed but I am left with this awkward red line on the waterline. 

Last step is mascara. Currently I use the Falsies by Maybelline. But I also love Clinique's High Impact Mascara. The falsies is easy to add some volume and length without clumps. Its got a funky wand so it takes some time to get used to. I move it back and forth around the roots of my lashes for volume then run it over my lashes 2-3 times. Two disclaimers: curling eyelashes is a must in my books. Otherwise all your efforts in mascara are a waste. Second, I have naturally long lashes so I cant really attest to the lengthening ability of this product. 

 Final touch is the Revlon lip butter and Im good to go! I dont have to use any setting powder with this makeup as the foundation stays matte all day for me! I never though it would be possible!

I hope you enjoyed reading this and maybe have some inspiration for you daily routine. Or to start a daily routine!

Until next time...

T∆NY∆

Lip(stick and stuff) Collection: Part 2

We are back at it. See how good Im getting at this?

This post will cover the second of three parts of my lipstick collection.

This one is a bunch of bits and bobs. I wasnt smart enough to actually sort things logically. 

NYX Butter Gloss. (Apple Strudel, Creme Brulee, Merengue) 

My newest purchase, is this threesome. I was actually just on the hunt for Creme Brulee but I found a three pack so sure why not. I had read about these online and they sounded like just what I wanted-- non sticky, pigmented and inexpensive. I would say they tick all the boxes. Ive mostly used the Creme Brulee and its the perfect nude lipgloss. With the other two I have a hard time getting an even colour on the lips but cannot deny their beauty. The colours are actually a great addition to my collection. And the names make me hungry.

Revlon Colour Burst Matte Balm, Covergirl Jumbo Gloss Balm, Bourjois Color Boost

Interesting variety here. Kind of not really. Very much not a fan of the Revlon. Im just not a fan of the colour on me. Its much more pink where as I was wanting a Raspberry. I have the colour #220 'Showy Flambouyante' (thats also a terrible name. Should have known.) Oh well. 

The Covergirl balm is one of my oldest (not that old but older). I love it. Colour is exactly as it seems it would be on the lid, its quite sheer but adds enough colour to my pale face. I have the colour #230 (or #2299, there is a bunch of random numbers but no name).

 Lastly, the Bourjois lipstick. This is a toughy to describe. Its glossy but not a gloss, sheer but considered a lipstick and IT STAYS 10HRS. Ok, I have yet to put a timer on it but thats what it claims to do and it most definitely stays on forever. The best part is it doesnt feel like its on. I have the colour 04 'Peach on the Beach'. Its perfect for all those times Im sitting on the beach.

Revlon Super Lustrous, Rimmel Apocalips, Mac Lipglass

 These are a bit more diverse. Obviously we have the MAC, a standard. By far my oldest product, and definitely not on the top of my list. Colour ('Full For You') is amazing and perfect when you want a lighter lip but not a nude. I often wear it to events. Its also one of those that tingles on the lips. Thats pretty cool. But its just too sticky and I have to reapply every 5 minutes. Too much effort.
The Revlon is a classic lipgloss. Went a bit wild on the colour choice, 'Kiss Me Coral' but I have used it in all seasons so thats nice. My one issue is the inconsistency in colour payoff. It takes some time to spread it evenly across the lip.
Lastly, Rimmel Apocalips. Epic. I get compliments EVERY time I wear this. I have '303 Apocaliptic'. Its a really nice berry colour. This product is a lipgloss/lipstick. Staying power like nothing else, it goes

on glossy but somehow turns matte a few seconds later. Science!

Revlon Just Bitten, elf Matte lip colour, Clinique chubby Stick Intense Sample, Revlon Colour Stay Ultimate Suede 

And the last of the bunch. As im writing this I realized I should have put things together by brand but you live and learn.

First up, Revlon just bitten in Gothic. Its GOOD. It comes with a balm on one end and the stain on another. The colour is RED. Like very red. Its so prettty. But be careful, its a bitch to get off and can last for days. Guess thats why its a stain. I am so looking forward to getting more colours of these.

elf Matte lip colour in 'Natural'. Nice matte lip pencil but the colour washes me out. I usually put a gloss over it. And you have to have soft lips or you will see every gross dry patch.

Clinique Chubby Stick. Got this one as a sample. We all know how great these are. And now I know too. I would recommend getting a more exciting colour though. '01 Curviest Caramel' is a bit blah.

Finally, another Revlon, a suede one in the colour '075 Cruise Collection'. This is as bright as it looks. Or brighter. The colour has a bit of shimmer which I love because it makes it less harsh. I would call it a tangerine as opposed to orange and I would also call it underused. Its a bit scary and definitely a statement. Though the finish is gorgeous. 

Writing this has taught me I have a lot of Revlon lip products. Did you guys learn anything? Hopefully... 

Until next time...

T∆NY∆

Lip(stick and stuff) Collection: Part 1

I promise, Im gonna make this thing work.

Last semester was a bit of a busy one but my resolution is to get back on the blogging grind so THIS WILL HAPPEN. Please stay tuned, I have lots planned. 

Its not like I dont have lots to say. I do. Duh. Its just finding the time to put it all into a nice, readable post with pictures. 

Today, we shall tackle my lipstick collection. Im breaking it down into a few posts because its simply too much for one.

Here are my lovely lipsticks and lip glosses and others...

L to R: Topshop Lips, Revlon lip butter, Rimmel by Kate, Nars Velvet Matte lip pencil

Topshop Lips in 'Brighton Rock' and "Rio Rio'

Revlon by Kate Moss #107

These guys are likely my most used (other than my MAC lipsticks which will come in another post).  I absolutely loved the two Topshop colours over the summer and early fall months (I talked about Rio Rio in this post). The pink is an epic matte, bubble gum but not too childish pink, where as the red is a great summer red with a hint of orange. 

The Kate Moss #107 is a classic at this point. No need to rant on its greatness. All you need to know: deep, matte red, perfection. 

Nars Velvet Matte lip pencil in 'Cruella'

One could argue that this colour is similar to the Kate Moss one above. WRONG. 

Its just different, ok. Yes I needed to spend my money to buy both.

Cruella is a lighter matte red. Its a bit darker than you standard fire engine red but its perfect for my light skin tone in the winter months. And the staying power is unprecedented. 

Revlon Lip Butters in #90 'Sweet Tart', #65 'Creamsicle', #75 in 'Lollipop'

The Revlon lip butters are the perfect go to when Im going for the every day, no makeup-makeup look. #90 is a great every day light pink while #75 is a bit darker and adds a little more pizazz. Ive been leaning towards #75 lately as its better suited for winter. Creamsicle was my first purchase but probably my least used. Its a great orangey nude that would look best when Im tan. Which is pretty much never so....

And thats a wrap. 

Hope this was semi interesting and enjoyable. 

Until next time... (which will be much sooner. I promise)

T∆NY∆

The Big Bad Bold Lip

The bold red lip is back on trend. Not that it has truly ever been off trend. That would be a fashion sin.

Lately, with Autumn just around the corner (deep breathes, we will get through this terrible realization together) Ive been noticing plenty of bold lips. As I flip through my magazine everyone from Marc Jacobs to Gucci to Topshop has styled their models with bold lips ranging from the classic red to a deep almost maroon red.

Most of us average day gals, seem to be scared of a bold lip. Until a month ago, I would have included myself in this category. But why? Not only are bold lips all the rave at the moment, but they also have the power of an instant confidence boost. Knowing that I have a bold red on my lips makes me feel all the more glamorous-- even while wearing my sweats.

Here's the trick to a big bad bold lip that won't scare you.... a lipstick brush!
Have no fear, this is not anything too fancy. Simply grab a smaller, detailing brush (my current is the Real Techniques Detailer Brush). Painting on the lipstick will give you the look of a bold lip without it over dominating your face. Plus it gives you more flexibility in placement and pigmentation. Im currently using Topshop's Rio Rio lipstick as my go to bold.

It is a classic red with a slight orange undertone. (This image makes the red look deeper than it truly is). This product is also great as its very matte and very long lasting. When I paint the colour on it turns out looking like more of a lip stain. Im loving this look as its easy, on trend and within my comfort zone. 

How are other feeling about the big bad bold lip? Are we loving its resurgence or do we want something fresh and exciting?

Until next time...

T∆NY∆

∆TM.

No, I am not giving out money. Nor is it to be confused with ANTM (as in America's Next Top Model).

ATM clearly stands for at the moment! As in what Im loving at the moment.
This post has been in the works for quite a while as Ive been crazy busy these past 2 weeks. But, Ive finally settled on my top 3 of the moment.

1. Revlon ColourStay Ultimate Suede. A few weeks back (yes, this is how long it takes for me to decided Im loving something) I was on a desperate hunt for a coral lipstick. Somehow I ended up selecting this product in the colour 'Cruise Collection 075'. And by somehow I obviously mean Emma Stone's face was beside it so I just HAD to buy it. Ive finally decided its worthy ATM. Here's why...

• It does what it says. The colour does in fact stay all day.
• The finish is very matte (which definitely attracted me at first). Sometimes, especially in the summer when your skin is dewy, or you want to play up the eyes, a matte (yet bold) lip just completes the look. 
• Its versatile-- adding a coral or pinky lipgloss on top amps it up or adding a lip liner underneath (Ive been using MAC's 'Naked' lipliner) mutes the colour.

The classy packaging makes it even harder to deny. 

2. Rimmel Scandaleyes Eye Shadow Stick. After hearing great things about this product I decided I wanted to try it for myself. Its been two weeks and Ive collected 3 so far (this could become an addiction). I currently own '003 Bad Girl Bronze', '005 Tempting Turquoise' and '002 Bulletproof beige'. These excite me so much ATM Im not sure where to begin. They do claim to be waterproof and last 24hrs which I am a bit skeptical of but, nonetheless absolutely worth a purchase! Why?

• The colour selection. OMG. Im sure I could convince myself the worthiness of every single colour in this 9 shade collection. 
• They're easy! Unless your going for makeup artist perfection, these are great for an every day, easy makeup look. Quite hard to 'mess up' as they look better messy. Lately, Ive been using the beige colour as a base all over the lid (since its light you can get away with little blending) then adding the bronze on the crease and outer corners--this step does require some blending effort).  
• Sticks galore! Since they are in stick form they are great on-the-go. Easily kept in your handbag and you dont need a brush to blend (oh the multi-talents of our fingers).

Ohhhh what a pretty combination [the blue (its called turquoise but its clearly blue) is great as a liner :)]

3. Real Techniques Buffing Brush. A staple for beauty lovers and beauty bloggers alike, the hype is totally worth it. The whole Real Techniques collection is incredible but I am specifically liking this brush ATM. 

• When used as intended-- ie to BUFF foundation-- it gives a flawless effect. And who doesnt want that? Ive always found it hard to get the perfect finish with my MAC Studio Fix foundation. Sam Chapman (the wonderful mind behind RT) recommended using the buffing brush with this product and I will never look back. Gives the perfect flawless finish. 
• Cream blush's BFF. Cream blush can so easily become a disaster. Use the RT buffing brush to place the perfect amount on the apples of your cheeks. (Im a fan of Topshop's cream blush in 'Flush')
• Inexpensive. Not cheap-- inexpensive! Especially if you are just starting out with makeup or your brush collection. They do the job and you cannot complain for the price (or any reason for that matter). 

Bonus: they stand up all by themselves just like a big kid!

    

I think thats enough for today. I hope its been inspirational. 

Try not to spend all your money :)

Until next time....

T∆NY∆

  

Is it just me or...

After hearing countless Youtubers and bloggers rave about Rimmel Wake Me Up Foundation I thought it was about time I gave it a go. I purchased it nearly a month ago and was using it almost daily until this week. I finally decided enough was enough, this is not for me!

But is it just me or is this product giving others unsatisfactory results?

To divulge... I bought the product as I wanted a full coverage foundation with a dewy finish. I have been a long devotee of everything MAC including their wonderful Studio Fix foundation. Trying a new foundation was like jumping off a bridge and hoping I could swim. Yet, I thought why not? Experiment. Change it up.

I was initially pleased with the Rimmel WMUF. At a reasonable prize, it contained a sufficient amount of product, great packaging (im a real stickler for packaging to be clean and sophisticated) and a clean smell. I thought I had finally hit a pot of gold. I found it a bit difficult to find a light enough shade for my skin however I settled on the lightest one available. Since it is summer and I am one step above ghost like, the shade seemed like it would suffice.

Once I got home and actually used the product I was just as pleased... initially. The colour actually looked fine once thoroughly blended, it gave a great coverage without feeling too heavy and the finish was just what I was looking for. (As I consider myself to have oily skin, it gave a me nice glow without looking like an oil field). I applied it with a Real Techniques Foundation Brush or the buffing brush depending on my mood.

After a few days I noticed my skin breaking out more than normal. After lots of pondering I concluded this foundation was the problem. My skin was so used to the light powder (yet full coverage) of MAC's studio fix that having a thick coat of foundation on did not allow my skin to breathe. To be fair, I am not sure if this is a problem of liquid foundation or Rimmel's product in particular but either way, this product is just not for my every day look.

I will still continue to use this product once in a while when I really want a glowing look but I just cant justify using it on a regular basis.

Until next time....
T∆NY∆