Sneak a Peek My Makeup Bag -part 3

I am not overly brave with color most days.  So most of what I use are safe neutrals that work for just about anyone.  I have a big rainbow ELF palette that I can play with if I'm feeling bold, but it's not in everyday rotation.  Here's what I pull out almost every day.



1.  Once my bases are covered, the very first thing I do is to groom my eyebrows. I use a Sephora Brow Brush and Anastasia Brow Powder in Brunette/Dark Brown.  Then I set it with a clear mascara.  I'm currently using one by CoverGirl, but any clear mascara works here.

2. Another all-around favorite.  I like to play with Urban Decay's Naked and Naked2 palettes.  I sometimes wish there were a few more light colors, but it's hard to screw up with such lovely neutrals. And if you can keep your kids out of them, they last forever.  They are so well pigmented that you hardly need to load any on your brush.

3.  Speaking of brushes, I highly recommend using a few specialized shadow brushes.  I have a large and small shadow brush from target, a Sephora Crease Brush, a tight, thin brush I use to apply shadow as eyeliner (similar) and a Smudge sponge.  I sometimes also use an Angled Shadow Brush. (And I often turn to TiffanyD for tutorials.  Watch the videos on mute if she rubs you the wrong way, as she did my little sister.)

4. To keep my eyeshadow and finishing powder parked all day, I use Make Up For Ever Mist & Fix.  I've heard good things about MAC Fix+ as well.  I love it when I go to wash my face at night and my makeup is still where it should be.

5. I got a great deal on a gift-pack at Christmas time and finally had a change to try the infamous DiorShow Iconic Mascara.  It is awesome, but pricey.  More normally I use Maybelline Falsies Mascara. And I still use a Lacrosse eyelash curler that I've had for ages.  I should maybe upgrade that sometime.

6. I have too many little men to kiss to keep any lip color on for long, but a few of my favorites are: MAC Ruby Woo for a bold red (I have to use a red liner too), MAC Jazz-Y-Razz for long-wear, Lorac Gloss in Peach Moonstone for the perfect subtle color, and Laura Mercier Crimson Tint for a less-committed red.  I also keep Burt's Bees Pomegranate Lip Balm in every purse and coat pocket for one-the spot color and softness.

I'm learning to love the feeling that I've done my best to look my best.  There's a subtle kind of confidence that accompanies it.  I'm still the kind of girl that will go out in public bare-faced if time is tight (especially in Summer when I'm not so pale), but I prefer the polished feeling that these products can lend me.