Work and home have been pretty busy around here, and it seems that means either I post almost EVERY DARN DAY (like last week) or practically nothing (like this week).
Well, you do what you can.
I have a couple of posts in the hopper (how I'm doing on my resolutions, my thoughts about my son starting public school next year, my review of the new Mariah Carey album - REALLY groundbreaking, important stuff), but as a way of avoiding actually, ya know, FINISHING them, I'll tide you over with a view of "what's in my make-up bag?"
You can blame Slynnro for this. She's fabulous by the way.
I'll start in the upper left hand corner with my everyday make-up bag and then work in order of how I apply it on my face. My products range from the basically cheep to the somewhat spendy. You've been warned.
Sonia Kashuk make-up bag. They no longer sell this particular pattern at Target, but I can say that the bags from this line that I purchased have held up for over a year. I have some of the coordinating bags from the same line that I use in my gym bag and when I travel. This particular bag is great because the zipper extends all the way to the bottom of the bag, which allows the bag to open side and make it easy to quickly find what you need. I've also washed it in the washing machine and air dried it with no issues.
The Face
Smashbox Photo Finish. I know, I know; a foundation primer seems like a lot of work, put it really isn't. It just seems to really help make-up go on smooth and blend well. And this little jar lasts a long time. Try to pick a sample up next time you shop at Sephora and see what you think.
Neutrogena Healthy Skin Smoothing Stick. I use this to cover up any acne when I breakout or for dark spots on my face. I have tried A LOT of different brands of concealer, and I've found this brand and color a great match for my skin. Plus, it stays in place and is a great value to boot.
Trish McEvoy Shell Eye Brightener. I use this to assist in the massive undertaking that is the process of covering up my intense undereye circles. It is so light; and instead of COVERING the dark areas with a heavy make-up, it's more about reflecting light off the area (I learned this thanks to Carmindy!). If you use a product like this, be sure to touch up that dark inner area of your eye (near your nose). Trish's products are a little spendy (I have a friend who uses her products exclusively, and she loves them), but one stick lasts me a year.
Sonia Kashuk Pencil Sharpener. Spend where you need to, save when you can. I use this for the Eye Brightener and for any other cheap pencil eyeliner that I have. It works great and for a price of about $6, you can't beat it.
Bare Escentials Bare Minerals Foundation. I started using this again after I discovered a better color for my complexion within their line. I had ordered the "Fair" starter box, and the two colors included were not the right match. I now use both "Fair" and "Fairly Light". I do use (and LOVE) Full Coverage Kabuki Brush (the short stubby brush to the right of the Bare Escentials compacts). I also use the Light Stroke Brush if I have to cover up specific spots or blemishes.
Boots No. 7 Blush. I just needed a simple compact blush and this one fit the bill! I checked out the reviews online and liked the colors I saw in the store. I've only been using this for a couple of months, and I do like the color and the coverage. I apply it with the Flawless Application Face Brush. I had previously used a Mac blush brush for this, but the handle was too long to fit easily in the bag. The Bare Escentrials brushes are a high quality and last a long time. Brushes are a tool that it is good to spend a little bit of money on.
The Eyes
Eveliner and Mascara
Tip: For easy and smooth application of stick or pen eyeliner, hold the eyeliner tip under the warm air of a blowdryer to warm it up for a few seconds (not too long though, because, OUCH). It will then get a bit softer and easier to apply.
MAC Shadestick. I actually use this as an eyeliner, on the days when I want a smokier eye or am not applying any eyeshadow. It has an duller point and goes on really smooth. This has been a make-up bag staple for a few years.
CoverGirl Perfect Point Plus Self Sharpening Eye Pencil. For under $5, this is a great everyday eyeliner. It will give you a precise line and stands up pretty well for a full day of work and kids. Also, it's great to experiment with other colors (I recently picked this up in midnight blue) to figure out if a color works for you without spending too much money.
Loreal Lash Out Mascara. Susan recommended, so I went out and tried it, and do you know what? I REALLY like it. Before, when I was spending upwards to $30 on one tube of mascara, it was so hard to toss it in the trash after the recommended 3-5 months. Now, it's not a big deal.
Shadow and Brushes, etc.
Neutrogena Mineral Sheers for Eyes. For myself, I'm not big into wearing eye shadow every day, but I do like this combination of colors and wear it to work 3-4 days a week.
MAC Brushes. I use the #208 Small Angled Brow Brush and 194 Concealer Brush. Obviously, neither are used for their MAC-approved uses, but ever the rebel I am!
Sonia Kashuk Lash and Brow Brush. I use this to help separate my lashes. I love that it folds up.
Not pictured, but still important; my lipcolor. I've always, ALWAYS had trouble finding a color I liked and about a year ago I feel in love with a color by Boots No. 7, Sheer Temptation - Entice. However, just because I like the color, doesn't help me remember to reapply; but really, baby steps, people, baby steps.
Some of you that know me are thinking, "GOOD LORD, all the product for a so-so result?" Just remember, I spent YEARS getting to "so-so" and I am plenty happy with it. To quote Holly from Nothing But Bonfires, "You say tomato, I say you're saying it wrong."
