Blush Up In the Club

Since I'm constantly in some sort of feminist denial of how much I love colored powders and creams, I'll begin this post with a meaningless declaration - I have never been much of a blush girl (much in the same way I've declared not to have been a mascara girl, or a liner girl, or any sort of genuine makeup girl generally). I don't know why I beat myself up like this because the truth is that on any given day (particularly a blues-y one), I'll go wherever the magical makeup lurer at Duane Reade or Sephora guides me. Recently, it was past the L'Oreal shelves, whose clean and neat-looking line of True Match products are strangely alluring.

This might have to do with the fact that I had a rather good experience with a True Match foundation in college, and that I finally got hold of Subtle Sable blush and would recommend it. Since it is a sweltering July here in New York, my makeup inclination has been to ditch some of the traditional blush shades for my medium/warm skintone and try some summery nude blushes instead. This meant avoiding pink and berry blushes for a while and going for something more neutral and understated along the lines of NARS Lovejoy (which I'm not in love with). If you want to know the truth, I was somewhat inspired by random images of Beyonce whose warm skintone had a very pretty, apricot-brown glow. It made me want to put my hands up in the club and do my own little thing with that same glow.

L'Oreal has a somewhat complicated letter/number system for matching shades to skintones, and so I largely ignore it - I just went with the highest numbers in the neutral and/or neutral-warm family, which led me to True Match blush in Soft Sun (W7-8), a slightly browned peach. It started chanting "Now put your hands up, up in the club..." I caved. I had a $5 coupon so the cheapster couldn't even object.

Best $5 I've ever spent in a drugstore (for now). This blush is deceiving - at first glance, you might think it's too light for medium/warm skintones, and you might be tempted to go with Sweet Ginger (N7-8) or Subtle Sable (W5-6) both warm, brick-pinks. But Soft Sun has its own charm and appeal. This golden apricot shade warms up my face, but never competes with some of the redness I have around my nose and cheeks from summer allergies. It almost has the effect I always thought bronzer should have, minus the muddiness and with some more color. With it's matte finish, it gives just a little bit of definition to my youthful (read: round) face with zero chalkiness. Compared to some of the brighter and darker blushes I own, it is much easier and more comfortable to wear. It reminds me of Milani's Sunset Beach blush, which is more orange and less neutral, and so doesn't have the same effect as Soft Sun.

The reason I prefer this to NARS Lovejoy as a natural/nude but still warm and forgiving blush is the texture. True to its name, the L'Oreal blush is very fine-milled, soft, blendable, and matte. Even though Soft Sun is the lightest blush I own, the pigmentation still makes an impact. Lovejoy, on the other hand, barely registers on my face. Instead of giving a natural, warm finish, it looks much like I took a few of swipes of a cakey nude blush to my cheeks. If you like Lovejoy but find Soft Sun too peachy-nude and want a little more pink, Sweet Ginger might be the next best drugstore alternative.

Now I just have to get more gloss on my lips and a man on my hips.

Much Ado About Brushes

So I saw this article on Sephora's new line of makeup brushes in the Times today and felt a little tug at my heart. They just looked so much prettier and glamorous all lined up in their color-coded fabulousness than they did in the Sephora mailer I received last week.

Courtesy of The New York Times

Of course, I have no need for more than a few makeup brushes and I certainly don't need anything color-coded. This is because I have some brilliant and wonderfully cheap makeup brushes from the e.l.f studio line. These are another one of my Fantastic-Finds-of-the-Year-That-I-Failed-To-Blog-About-Sooner.

My makeup brush collection is nothing to write home about. Spending money on brushes, although a decent investment for some I'm sure, just doesn't seem right to me and is completely unnecessary for my purposes. Also, I just don't get the same thrill out of buying an expensive brush. A retractable kabuki brush from Posh is about all I ever need. Prior to the e.l.f. brushes, my meager collection included a Posh travel-set of eye makeup brushes (which I never use) and a set of Ecotools (from which I occasionally use the powder brush and lash comb before it broke).

So why did I decide to try the e.l.f studio line of brushes? Well, they are about $3.00 each and there was a massive sale at the time - that was good enough reason for me. In truth, I wanted to know what the fuss about fan brushes was all about. I've read good things about e.lf. and decided it was worth spending $15 on 5 face makeup brushes to see what happened. These are the ones I have:

Powder Brush



















Complexion Brush


















Kabuki Brush













Blush Brush


















Fan Brush



















I have to say, some of these brushes made me a bit of a convert - at least for the quality and performance of e.l.f. studio brushes. The bristles are surprisingly soft and they definitely do a great job of blending. I also like how dense the bristles are and how well they are "packed" into the handle of the brush (I don't find this with my Ecotools brush, and find it harder to control).

The fan brush probably isn't the same quality as high-end brushes in terms of use, but I do see the difference in using this versus a regular powder or blush brush, especially for certain blushes. The look of NARS Taos blush (a very bright and pigmented blush) is definitely more natural with a fan brush versus any other kind of brush. In fact, the only brush I'm not terribly impressed with in this bunch is the blush brush, so I'm glad that I have this as well. The blush brush is rather small and narrow, and I think it works better for more natural and/or contouring blushes/bronzers/powders. I like using either this or the powder brush with more neutral blushes like NARS Lovejoy since they give more definition and can pack on more color.

I use the Kabuki brush all the time (more than my Posh kabuki) for both face powder and even blush. Since it's the biggest brush, I prefer it to the powder brush. I actually use the powder brush or complexion brush more for blending (i.e., when I'm wearing more makeup, which is rare). The complexion brush is rather neat for for this since it has a flat top - kind of cool. Makes you feel like you have some specially-designed, expensive brush that you can find creative uses for when otherwise, you would never think to use such a thing.

Overall, I'm happy enough with these brushes to get rid of the others, but I keep the Eco-Tools because it's still good quality, and the Posh retractable kabuki is good for the handbag. If you'd like to have some good brushes on hand, don't want to spend a lot of money, and don't wear too much makeup anyway, the e.l.f studio line is definitely the way to go.

For the Bollywood Or Pocahontas In You

So I may be one of the last people to jump on the ethnic-beauty-bandwagon, but better late than never. I hesitated at first, mostly because I have not tried any of the products out there geared towards 'women of color.' In case you haven't noticed, I've had trouble wielding the most basic of products out there to begin with. While the appeal and usefulness of these new lines will vary from woman to woman, there is definitely a need for cosmetics and skincare that cater to The Ethnic Beauty, which is really like, everyone on the planet.

Some of my fellow bloggers have already talked about Thevi Cosmetics, Vasanti Cosmetics, and Dr. Susan Taylor's Rx for Brown Skin. Whether or not you envision yourself as a multicultural or post-ethnic Disney princess, these lines may have something of interest for you. I know I'm eyeing Rx for Brown Skin because of some wretched post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation I'm experiencing (read - scaring after a zit packs its bags).

It also recently occurred to me that not being able to find the Right or Pefect X, Y, Z of a product might have something to do with how restricted some cosmetics lines are. So I may go for a Thevi blush (or two) soon and see what happens!

LORAC Blush/Bronzer Duo - Hot & Spicy

I didn't realize how bored I had become with my makeup lately, until I discovered the *amazing* LORAC Blush/Bronzer Duo (Hot & Spicy). I'm not a blush or bronzer junkie, but was on the search for ones that I could feel comfortable wearing in any setting. I tried this on a whim and have used it almost everyday ever since. In fact, I was salivating over it within 48 hours of use, but held off writing about it for a while because of my fickle makeup ways. After a week, I think I'm finally ready to articulate an intelligent review.

Only I can't - because this blush/bronzer is awesome! It's so easy to use! It lasts! I love the colors! It's so versatile! I love the finish! I carry it in my bag and actually touch it up! It's pretty to look at! I think it makes me look prettier! It can look natural! It can look dramatic! It's everything you could possibly want in a blush/bronzer! Sound like I'm exaggerating? I'm really not! I really, truly, genuinely like this product and am not considering returning it. I swear. In fact, I want to buy another to keep at home.

Both the deep pink/peach blush and medium bronzer work well on my medium-tan complexion to warm it up. The blush gives a natural flush that is neither too pink/plum, nor too orange, and the bronzer is neither too matte nor too sparkly. Additionally, the bronzer shade is perfect for skin tones like mine - some bronzers tend to make it look "dirty" or simply way too dark. Not to mention how soft and blendable this is - makes it a breeze to use, but yes, heavy hands beware. If you happen to use too much, you can always blend some away. There is some shimmer factor which isn't cheap or too noticeable, and if you touch your face too much, there can be some sparklage and shimmer fallout - but really, nothing to be too concerned about, especially compared to other products which seem to have a jar of glitter in them.

This is far superior to the NARS Orgasm/Laguna duo in quality, and far more versatile for various complexions. And it comes with a cute brush - when was the last time that happened with a high-end product? I only wish that the compact were slimmer and sleeker. Best of all, it has pretty good staying power - lasts about 6-8 hours unless you're running the marathon (in which case, don't wear makeup!). After a light touch up, it fades away nicely into that just-warmed-by-fading-make-up look. I actually like going a teeny bit overboard with this for a deeper flush.

2 minor downsides - the somewhat clunky (if also somewhat classic) compact - it's like MAC 's Studio Fix powders, round with a compartment beneath for the brush. A bit thick to carry around, but one can deal. Also, the powder is so fine that some of it ends up on the mirror - clearly no need to dig your brush into the pan.

$28.50 @ Sephora. Looking forward to my touch up!

Be Jane, Be Happy!

My recent tinted moisturizer experiments included the Jane Be Pure Aquaceuticals Sheer Tinted Moisturizer, SPF 30. Luckily, a promotion at the time allowed me to experiment with some other products from this new line of all-natural, organic, and paraben-free makeup from Jane Cosmetics.

The first product that I really love but wish I had in a different shade - the Agua Blushtix. There is a lot of product in this twist-up creme blush, and worth every penny on that front. If you were thinking about trying Clinique Blushwear Creamstick, I'd experiment with this first. The formula also isn't at all greasy or chalky. I chose Shimmering Brown (the other 2 available shades are Shimmering Peach and Shimmering Pink) because I thought it might be interesting for summer and am already involved with a lovely pink creme blush from Stila. Unfortunately, the color doesn't show up on me too well, but it does give a nice, light, bronzey glow that is not overwhelming or sparkly. ~$8.00

Next up were 2 AguaShimmer Eye Shadow quads. The magnetic, cardboard case (mirror inside) reveal 4 sheer, pretty neutrals for spring (Bamboo pictured here). I have Reef and Sandstorm, and think they are so cute and versatile. Pick one up to keep in your makeup bag! ~$6.00

I've seen these mostly at Rite Aid, but if this makes you super-excited, you can also purchase them online here. What did I say about drugstores? An American makeup dream! Enjoy...

Revisionist

Clearly, I am one when it comes to makeup. Since you're probably not surprised that I'm going a bit back on my word about some things, I'll just get right to it:

Lip
I'm no longer in possession of Laura Mercier lipsticks in Fresh Brown and Amaretto, or ck Calvin Klein's Glory lip gloss. After some soul-searching, bathroom cleaning, and others' input, I made myself return these. Since my lip color choices are usually neutral and safe, there was just no justification for the space these were occupying. Fresh Brown was replaced by Maybelline's Moisture Extreme Lipstick in Sugared Bronze, and I'm just as happy with it. I kept the ck Calvin Klein Pastel Gold lip gloss because it is a color and type I just don't have. My only other "good" gloss right now is a reddish bronze from MAC, and this is a good complement for a balanced and reliable, if tiny, selection. I'll splurge on a good lipstick for an awesome, hard-to-find color, not a neutral.

Face
There is a Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer sitting in my bathroom counter, and so far, so good! It makes my face look more even and polished without feeling like makeup. As a moisturizer it leaves a soft glow, and is only slightly drying in already existing problem areas. Completely worth the money in most ways, but I have a nagging feeling that I can find something similar and less expensive. Suggestions are welcome.

There is also a beautiful Nars Bronzer/Blush duo (Orgasm/Laguna)alongside the tinted moisturizer, and it makes me so happy just to look at it. It is one of my more substantial buys yet, and I'm proud of it. This duo gives just the right amount color to my face, and with a little work I think I might get the contouring down, too. It's a foolproof addition to anyone's makeup routine, and while I'm still going to give it some time just to be sure, this one will probably be a keeper.

Eyes
I have similar feelings about Smashbox eye shadow Trio in Smashbox.com. This trio consists of some basic neutrals - a pale but brightening yellow, a soft shell-pink, and a dark, matte brown. The quality of these shadows is wonderful (extremely soft and blendable), and any issues I'm having are more about technique than the product itself. I particularly love the yellow for the inner corner of the eye and on the brow. But my It's-so-basic-there-must-be-a-cheaper-version-out-there moment did force me to peruse the drugstore aisle to no avail. I might just stick with this one to make life easier.

All of these have been much less tricky to use than some of the other supposedly fantabulous things I have bought, and are much more effective - who could ask for more?

NARS Super Orgasmic Blush

For those of you who have mastered the Orgasm, rejoice. Now we have Super Orgasm.

I'm speaking of NARS blushes, of course. As much as I love NARS, I'm quite skeptical of what will surely be it's latest over-hyped blush. Maybe I’m bitter because Orgasm has never suited me. But then, I have a pretty universal skin tone so I can imagine that there are many people that it doesn’t work for.

Super Orgasm is also been described by NARS as a universally-flattering peachy pink with golden glitter. Shudder. I know glittery makeup doesn’t necessarily mean you will look like a Vegas show girl, but if this is supposed to be The Blush for darker skin tones, then adding golden glitter doesn’t make it so. I have a feeling this may be a less golden pink but more sparkly version of my beloved CG Cheekers Blush in Golden Pink.

Super Orgasm may be worth a try. My never-ending Sephora credit practically demands it. $25.00 only @ Sephora

NYX Love

I've heard so much about NYX products and have unfortunately, never tried any. Once, I found a huge display of their products in a Canadian store - I loved the texture of the eye shadows, but never bought any. San has love for an NYX blush (read about it here) and I've been itching to explore this line.

NYX is notoriously hard to find. I've been in drugstores where there is a single, lonely NYX product lying around without a price tag or display. So when San whipped out a cool NYX eye pencil the other day and told me where I could find it, I was happy to check it out and purchase some great products from the line. I bought a Jumbo Eye Pencil in French Fries, Powder Blush in Pecan, and Trio Eye Shadow palette in Guru.

French Fries is a chubby-wubby, friendly, creamy pencil in a basic bronze shade. This didn't show up spectacularly on my lids, but it was great for the inner corner of my eyes and would be more visible with some primer or a base. This was so easy to work with - the color stayed put and wasn't too creamy/smudgy. A little difficult to blend but the pencil allows you achieve whatever level of precision you prefer very easily.

Guru includes 3 warm, sheer neutrals (pink champagne, light bronze, and light, coppery pink) that were neither matte nor too shimmery. Great shades for work and daily wear if you just want to brighten your eyes up a bit, and a smooth, blendable texture that is on par with higher-end products. Pure loveliness. I wish there had been more trios available as these are a just tad too light for me (but still very usable and versatile) - after checking them out on the website, I'd like to try TS24 (shimmer, peach, copper) and many others.


Now the show-stopper. Pecan. What a blush. I know I've proven to be very fickle in my tastes but I really do love Pecan. It solves many of my recent Blush Issues. I was finding some to be too pink to wear comfortably all the time, especially on bad-skin days, but didn't like the blush/bronzer duos I've come across and couldn't commit to more expensive ones like Cargo's Beach Blush. I layered some blushes with my L'Oreal HiP bronzer but using 2 products is just annoying and I don't love that bronzer due to its shimmer factor.

I should mention that I've also generally been interested in trying bronzer. Granted, I didn't explore much because I felt that bronzer for my skin tone would be a bit difficult to find. Additionally, my skin is perfectly warm enough for me - I wasn't sure if bronzer would make it or break it. I wanted something that would complement it without too much color or muddiness.

Pecan is the answer! It looks like a very dark, coppery brown, bronzer in the pan but goes on like some wonderful new interpretation of "brick" blush. It is a slightly ruddy brown that creates a warm flush and hints at cheekbones (plenty of cheek here, little bone). This particular blush has an extremely fine, gold shimmer that is barely noticeable once applied but of course, enhances the overall effect.

I'm so satisfied and impressed - for just under $16.00 total and this level of quality, how could you not be? Jumbo Eye Pencil, $2.99; Powder Blush, $5.99; Trio Eye Shadow, $6.99 @ Select drugstores or NYXcosmetics.com

Jane Shimmer Bronzer

This is one of the random products that has been sitting in my drawer since the pre-blog era. I can't remember what appealed to me about it and why I made the purchase. Thoughts were swimming around in my head way before I decided to express them here, and this was my original attempt at finding a good blush/bronzer.

I'm overall impressed with Jane Cosmetics, but this one - not so much. I have the Shimmer Bronzer in Tahiti which has a checkered mix of deep, warm brown/berry shades and some lighter, silvery peachy-pinks and lilacs. It was the only color combination that didn't have cool, neutral, brown shades and I thought some of the warmer berry tones would work on my skin.

I'm not too find of these "mosaic" products. The colors never seem to work well together to give a defining shade/finish. Tahiti leaves a slightly berry-toned, silvery, shimmery wash over my cheeks. There isn't much color payoff at all and there is 0 bronzing effect due to the coolness of the lighter shades. Instead of a "luminous glow," I achieved a sort of Stardusty, Caspar/fairy-like, just-fell-off the moon shimmer that doesn't suit my skin tone. Sorry, I know that's a weird description but my imagination is a little wild this morning.

But this is not to say that I won't use Tahiti occasionally, mostly for evening (who knows what I mean by evening - of late, my "evenings" consist of apartment hunting, tea, some dinner, and perhaps TV). The silver shimmer could work with other understated makeup and perhaps a more monochromatic look with similar tones/shades.

For the price, this is also a great value, as with all Jane Cosmetics. The compact is large and sturdy, with a hidden compartment underneath that contains a small brush (useless of course), but no mirror. It's similar to the regular shimmer blushes, but this one is bronze colored whereas the others are black.

While I wasn't completely thrilled with this, I will definitely give the regular blushes a try, even though those also have those annoying strips of color. I have yet to detect a shade from the regular blush line that might work - Sania's review of the Blushing Cheeks in Plum, however, is encouraging. If the shimmer blushes also don't impress, I might have to give in and give Cargo's Beach Blushes a try. $5.99 @ Drugstore.com (on sale right now for $4.19!)

Makeup Blues

So I've decided that in addition to having been busy apartment hunting, I've also been experiencing some makeup blues. I haven't fallen in love with anything. Yes, I was happy to discover Milani Flare eye shadow as well as the Rimmel blush in Berry, but those weren't exactly heart-stopping purchases. Anymore, that is.

If possible, I may be a bit makeup'ed out.

Gasp. Is such a thing possible?

I decided it is. Perhaps if I were more creative and adventurous, things would be easier. But I'm still rather clueless about many a makeup issue, and this has been hindering my exploration - and yes, evolution.

The one interesting discovery I had yesterday (I swear, while waiting for a broker in Sephora - it was hot out!) was an eye shadow from Urban Decay called Roach. I loved the name. So fun to say - rrroach! Pure awesomeness to apply something with such a gross name. Anyway, this was the closest I've come to finding that perfect, neutral, yet dark shade I've been looking for. It is a deep brown/coppery plum that can be layered for a more dramatic effect.

The problem I've found with even some of the darkest shadows is that they still seem to disappear into my skin somehow - even though I don't have very dark skin! Perhaps this is where a primer/base like UDPP should come in. I think I need a Makeup Holiday to purchase/experiment/return/fall in love.

In other news, 2 weeks ago I walked around Sephora finding the perfect match for my Jane Eye Zing in Hazelnut, which was turning out to be a pretty nice blush. When I asked the SA for help, she was intrigued, and said "Honey, whatever works for you..."

Surprisingly, the closest matches were NARS' Lovejoy and Laura Gellar's Blush-n-Brighten in Golden Apricot (a bronze/gold/rose). Lovejoy, of course, had more shimmer than I would have liked, but Golden Apricot was pretty dead-on. I won't be purchasing because I really don't need it. Now I wish I could attack the drugstore and see what cheaper blush/bronzer will match Hazel.

One thing I did learn - Lorac eye shadows are Amazing. I'm tempted to return my MAC Evening Aura and Bronze so I can spend the money on these instead. Soft and almost creamy to blend, with really wonderful, versatile colors - I was tempted by Garnet, Bronze, Inspiration, Gold, and Serenity.

Want to try the new MAC Starflash shadows - have read wonderful things about them, particularly Smoke & Diamonds. Sadly, I think that shade will make me look like an Indian movie star from the 1980s. Not a risk I'm willing to take, but perhaps the other shades are worth exploring - the finish sounds like exactly what I'm looking for. Aside from the Starflash shades, I'd love to try the Gold Stroke shadow - someone had a picture of it up on MUA and it looked gorgeous - a nice combination of Roach, Expensive Pink, and Flare - sounds like a winner, but we will wait and see.

My Clinique Chocolate Ice is nearing its end and I'm wondering what to replace it with - eventually. Sadly, there aren't any other colors in this formula that I liked. I'm looking for the perfect pink/bronze - anyone have ideas? I love NARS' lipstick in Kiss, but that is a tad bit too frosty and deep for me, and MAC's "O" - meh. Although comparable, it just didn't do anything special for me.

No longer impressed with the Maybelline Mineral Lipcolors - the shades I chose are definitely too bland. I may consider trying a more vibrant one since these formulas are so light.

Excuse the long post about everything. Hope to have a more specific, interesting one coming up.

Rimmel Blush - Berry

Must find apartment. Must write about makeup to relieve stress. Must do so now.

Walgreen's is a miracle. For once, I must succumb to this suburban wonder now finding its way through NYC. They had some pretty fun things I stumbled upon yesterday. Oh, and yes...I went from potentially living a block away from a Sephora to potentially being around the corner from Walgreen's. Can't decide which one would have been better.

First up - I've been meaning to try some Rimmel products. Yes, my drugstore fetish will never end. It is just too convenient to resist. In particular, I'd wanted to try a blush from Rimmel since the packaging is so extremely light and compact. It's just a little, squarish plastic pan with a flip-top lid - no brush or anything. Even lighter than a NARS compact, although of course not as durable.

I got this blush in Berry and was suspicious - I thought it might turn out to be a flat, matte, dusky berry. Surprisingly, it wasn't! Berry was a a toned-down version of my CG Cheekers Blush in Golden Pink - the name is misleading because there are no hints of blue or purple in this (image above is much darker than actual color). It's more of a caramel/tawny rose/pink that gives a peachy effect similar to Golden Pink, but was far less pigmented and much easier to build and blend the color.

This was a dream to apply. Because the pigmentation is just right and the blush is very fine-milled, a couple of swipes was enough to give a naturally flushed look. Very lightweight and blendable, and absolutely no cakey effect. This doesn't have an ounce of shimmer or shine, but is sheer enough to let your skin shine through. Lasting power is also pretty decent - a touch up wouldn't hurt halfway through the day.

I actually like this so much that I want to try it another color, but I have a feeling I got the perfect one. Even after 1 day of use, I can tell I will be reaching for this more often than not. $3.29 @ Walgreen's

Jane Eye-Zing in Hazelnut - Blush Zing?

I've mentioned before how much I like this eyeshadow from Jane, but the truth is, I don't actually use it very often. Alas, this is the case with most of my makeup. Even though I've been working more with the blush lately, it's decidedly a much more delicate process in my opinion than applying anything else to the face. With the exception, of course, of eyeliner, which I've given up on altogether lately.

Poor great shadow with nowhere to go but the depths of my top drawer. I felt bad for it. So I retrieved little Hazel the other day to see how it would work with some of my other shadows.

Hazel was looking pinker and crisper in the pot than usual, when it dawned on me that perhaps it would make a good blush. Out came it my Eco-tools blush brush, and I went to work.

My hunch was correct. Hazel gave a a very subtle, slightly rosy/coppery sheen that was actually much more "sun-kissed" looking than any blush I've recently tried. I've previously described this shade as a bellini-like soft tan/peach/copper with very subtle shimmer.

Again, the effect was similar to one I tried to create with my also pitiful L'Oreal HiP bronzer and other blushes. This didn't actually look like either blush or bronzer, but my cheeks definitely had a different glow and some color to them in a way that I really, really liked - some interesting cross between what I always thought an Orgasm for darker skin SHOULD look like. Taos fits that bill as well, but it is definitely HIGHLY pigmented and very, very rosy. This would probably work even better on slightly lighter skin tones.

I'm sure there is a blush shade or formula out there that will match what Hazel did. I'll definitely be on the lookout, and maybe even take this to a store or two to compare. I have to say though, it was surprisingly easy to use a blush brush in this little shadow pot, so maybe I'll continue that method until I get over it.

$3.59 @ Walgreen's and other drugstores

NARS Powder Blush - Taos

You'd think I would've written about this sooner now that I have it. Alas, all has been quiet on Shrooms' front for a few days. But since I've been comparing every blush out there to this one, it's high time I shared my love for it.

I've been hung up on the CG Cheekers blush in Golden Pink for quite a while now - it's been the closest thing I could find to Taos...and yet, not really. I've been annoyed with it recently though, because it's rather difficult to blend, and the small pan makes it hard to get color on the blush brush.

Not so with Taos. This is a true rose blush - rich and bright with just enough cool berry tones to prevent an orange effect. At the same time, this manages to be an incredibly warm pink shade that will probably flatter most skin tones. Some consider this to be the Orgasm for darker skinned women - I tend to agree.

The company description for Taos is "desert rose with shimmer," but I would think a desert rose shade would be more "burnt" and bronzey like the Golden Pink, and this is definitely much more vibrant than that, with few netural/brown tones. There is definitely a fair amount of shimmer which most NARS blushes seem to have, but the effect is extremely subtle - don't know how those shimmer particles do it, but they do it well.

Blendability is fantastic, and I'm looking forward to mixing in some bronzer (if I'm in the mood) to add some hints of brown since this has absolutely none. This is very pigmented, and so I have to use a very light hand. That can kind of be hard for me, because I like to be quick in the morning and going easy on the makeup is surprisingly more time-consuming. I dip very light along the side of the brush (don't swirl) and tap it onto my cheeks before blending. If I dip the brush into the pan head-on, it picks up way too much color.

For this reason, I don't know if I can safely and easily use this everyday - I think it suits a certain "look" especially depending on the rest of your makeup. I still think a toned down version of this would work better on a daily basis, but then again, many colors tend to disappear on me, so perhaps this really is my best bet. I think now I really need to get the L'Oreal Tru Blend Blush in Subtle Sable - it could be a good compromise (if such a thing exists when Taos is involved) for daily wear.

The packaging of this blush, like all NARS products, is chic and sensible - the compact is so slim and durable, and there is a huge pan of color, making it very easy to dip in any kind of brush, and a mirror inside. I'm trying to figure out how to make this last longer, though.

I got this as a gift from San (she found some major BOGOF NARS sale god-knows-where), so I can play with this to my heart's content without any guilt. And yet, had I actually bought it, it would have been well worth the price. And, er, I know another blush is currently titled Best Blush but I think we can all agree that needs to change. Love it. $25.00 @ Beauty.com

The Drugstore Queen Has Come Undone

This blog's resident Drugstore Queen is really going crazy. I was a full half an hour early to work today and instead of walking straight to the office, I took a detour to CVS and purchased some Black Radiance products (just to, you know, experiment, not keep...).

I picked up the Spiced Ginger blush I mentioned yesterday and it is most certainly no NARS Taos knockoff. Agreed, San, that there can be no such thing. How could I have been so naive. This was a pretty standard rosy color with great pigment for the price, but not really for me - just wasn't interesting/exciting enough. I'd be better of with the L'Oreal Subtle Sable if I'm going to go for a drugstore blush.

I don't know what has gotten into me. I don't know why I'm scared of a $25.00 commitment to Taos when I spend about the same on a number of drugstore products that I go and return anyway. Might as well make one truly great purchase and stick with it.

Also, scouting out products at drugstores is starting to tire me out. They don't all carry the same things and I miss Sephora. Returning is also becoming a pain. Oh, what a busy life I lead...

Taos Knockoff Alert!

I've hopelessly been trying to mimic the lovely NARS blush in Taos, although the process has made me explore and appreciate blushes much more than I ever have.

Today, I read a review on MUA for a blush that is supposed to be a good replacement for Taos - Black Radiance Sheer Blush in Spiced Ginger. I'm quite partial to the Black Radiance and Black Opal drugstore lines although I know that they are probably for skintones much darker than mine. Still, I find that their some of their shades and formulations still work for my skin more so than others. I have the Black Opal eyeliner in Blackened Jade and concealer in Honey.

I haven't actually tried Black Radiance but since Black Opal is pretty decent, I'm willing to give it a try.

I enjoyed the Milani in Sunset Beach like a good drink, and already have the CG Cheekers as a great safe bet. Onward ho. Will report on it soon.

Milani Mineral Blush

I'm on a Milani kick. I recently spotted a row of pretty Milani blushes at CVS, but thinking I'd find them at another drugstore later, put off purchasing. Bad idea. I couldn't find them anywhere, and they no longer appear to be on the Milani website either.

However, Milani has introduced a line of mineral makeup which includes a Mineral Blush that comes in four shades. Of course, I have also not seen these anywhere else. Otherwise, I would have snatched one up and written about it sooner. The random Duane Reade in Penn Station that apparently gave birth to the line of Posh knockoff brushes from Apt. 5 also appears to have created this blush.

There were three of them sitting neatly in a Terra Cotta bronzer display. I just don't understand where they came from since that store doesn't have its own Milani display and there are no other Milani products there. My only options were Sweet Rose and Sunset Beach. Sweet Rose looked a little too cool for me, so I went with Sunset Beach.

Sunset Beach is basically a vibrant, burnt peach shade with hints of brown. No shimmer, no glitter, just a good old standard blush. I normally would never try such a color as this on my skin, but I've been feeling adventurous lately. Using this was a breeze due to the extremely lightweight, fine-milled consistency that gave a sheer finish.

I would say that most blushes are like confectioner's sugar in a pan, but this is more like ground up chalk (without a chalky finish though!). I lightly dusted it on and then actually layered some of my beloved CG Cheekers Blush in Golden Pink - what can I say, very nice! A little different and unexpected, but still very natural. I don't think this has much lasting power though, even when set with powder.

For the price, this is a pretty large pan of color that comes with a mirror and sponge in a separate compartment. I prefer this to the Glimmer Strips and Sunset Duo blushes because those shades are rather dull and predictable. Sunset Beach is a somewhat unique shade that I think suits me, and because I found it easy to work with, perhaps I'll give Sweet Rose a try as well. ~$4.00 @ god knows where but if you live in NYC, go to the Duane Reade located on the upper level of Penn Station near the NJ Transit!

Subtle Sable, Subtle Blush

I did not have the happiest weekend and so by the end of last night, I desperately needed four things: 1) a drink or two, or three, or four 2) cheesy Italian food 3) chocolate 4) makeup. Me and my sis pulled of the first two pretty successfully, but I still needed to take care of #3 and #4. At 11:15 pm, it was Duane Reade to the rescue.

I had settled on my favorite choco bar (Lindt Milk Chocolate with Hazelnuts - 2nd runner-up is the Skor bar) before I was lured into the makeup aisle by an invisible makeup lurer. I thought I could keep off some calories by buying something to dust across my cheeks again.

So it came down to the Lindt bar and L'Oreal True Match Blush in Subtle Sable. I picked this up and put it back about 10 times. I'll even admit to opening the package, testing the color on my hand, and then tucking it in the abyss of the Wet 'n' Wild display so someone can retrieve it and put in the clearance bin later.

But I'm glad I did (of course - don't I always say that?). Subtle Sable is bright yet just dusty enough rose shade that's kind of similar to the effect I got from the CG Cheekers in Golden Pink-L'Oreal HiP Bronzer in Glowing combo I came up with (yes, I know I also have to try San's BeachBlush suggestion). True to the color names though, that combo is definitely much more bright and glowy.

Subtle Sable may be a tad bit more like San's recent Dolce Vita discovery from NARS, with a dash of NARS Taos and Orgasm thrown in, if that makes any sense. Fine, matte finish that is perfect for everyday. I would love to try the Sweet Ginger and Rosy Outlook shades, too.

Anna mentioned how L'Oreal HiP is great for brown girls, but I'm feeling that L'Oreal is overall pretty great in terms of color/shade selection for those with our skintones. I would have loved to try the HiP line's blushes, but they have been discontinued. Had I bought this blush, it would have been the 10th L'Oreal product I have had a good experience with (will have to make a list of those!). I would've willed it to.

In the end, the chocolate won because I could share it with my sister and it was about 3 bucks. I told my sister she should be proud of me for resisting the blush urge. According to her, I desperately need a hobby or a boyfriend. $10.95 @ Drugstore.com

Que Bella Dolce Vita

We interrupt our normally scheduled blush programming to present to you a lovely little goodie that I got my hands on two weeks ago: NARS Dolce Vita blush. Dolce Vita is the latest color in the NARS blush lineup - it's part of the Fall 2008 color story that isn't due to be on sale until August. Shame on me for not posting about it until now!

Dolce Vita is a lovely dusty rose color that originally started as a lipstick, spread to gloss, with the most recent addition being the Dolce Vita Velvet Matte lip pencil. And now there's a blush to round out the happy little cosmetic family.

A NARS sales associate at my local mall was kind enough to let me have one from early stock that they had received. It's simply gorgeous, and very true to the Dolce Vita essence.

Click to Enlarge
A comparison pic to show how it measures up to the Velvet Matte lip pencil:

Click to Enlarge
As we all know, I'm a huge fan of NARS blushes, but this one might just have edged its way to the top of the list. It's a fantastic matte, everyday kind of blush - a perfect complement to the olive in my skin.

The NARS Fall 2008 collection is due to release in August 2008 at NARS counters near you, and at Sephora. Definitely get your hands on one if you can!

Bronze Baby, Bronze, Blush Baby, Blush

Since I fell in love with my CG Cheeker's Blush in Golden Pink, I've been toying with the idea of trying a bronzer/blush in-one product. While I do love this blush on me, I thought it might be interesting to add some dimension to this bright (but natural since it has hints of tan and gold) shade for 2 reasons.

First, while this color is fabulous, I must admit that perhaps the formula isn't 100% what I would like out of a blush in terms of blendability. Since it takes a few swipes for any color to appear on my skin, including this one, I tend to go a bit overboard because this is also a bit difficult to blend once all that color is on. I know tools matter, but in this case, I'm sure it has more to do with the fact that this is barely a $4.00 product. But I've tried blending it out with some face powder, and that has definitely helped set the blush and dilute the color just a wee bit.

Second, I would like to give bronzer a chance. Now, I've never understood why and how bronzer works for darker-skin tones. I've always been under the impression that it can just make your face look kinda - well, dirty. I have a -warm-toned, tan-ish, olive-ish complexion and while Golden Pink livens it up plenty, I was sure bronzer would completely dull it. I'd hoped there was some happy medium, and have recently noticed a multitude of bronzer/blush products available. However, as usual, most of the shades don't look like they will be too flattering on me.

I realized some more experimentation was in order, so I finally decided to give a product that has been lying in my drawer another chance - L'Oreal HIP Vibrant Shimmer Bronzing Powder in Glowing (image shown is of actual color).

This bronzer comes in a pretty nice round compact with an extra compartment underneath that as a mirror and brush. Brush is of course useless, but I appreciate the extra care L'Oreal seems to be taking with its packaging. Glowing is a medium, golden-brown shade with flecks of shimmer that appear kind of greenish/goldish if you look closely - not really my thing, and one of the reasons I hadn't used it beyond a few test swipes.

But lightly swirled over Golden Pink blush - wowness. I finally understood what that "sun-kissed" look is all about, and was surprised that it could be achieved on my skintone. Glowing definitely gave Golden Pink (how cute, their names kind of go together) some much-needed dimension. It neutralized some of the pink just enough, and most importantly, helped it blend into my skin to create a more believable, healthy, summery flush. The bronzer itself is of good quality - soft and fine-milled with buildable color.

I've got to be careful not to use too much of either one since it could make my cheeks look a bit cakey, especially since mine tend to be dry. Also, I definitely don't love shimmer in this bronzer. It works fine on the cheeks, but I stupidly ran my brush over the rest of my face once I'd shaken off the extra color, and in the light, I could see all these green/gold sparkly flecks - ick. But I don't think this was too noticeable - it might actually give a prettier "glow" than I realize.

I can tell I'm going to have too much fun with this. Watch out for other bronzer experiments, and if possible, another blush I have my eye on...

My Buddy, My Blush - Wherever I Go, You Go

I've used San's term of "making out" with makeup loosely, but this time I mean it. I am nearly in love with my CG Cheekers Blush in Golden Pink. I could smear this baby all over my face like's there no tomorrow and not care if I look an Indian show dancer who didn't finish putting on all her makeup and applied whatever was on in the dark.

I've gotten several compliments on it (I swear everyone thinks it's NARS), although a few times I've used a bit of a heavy hand with it. This is partly because I don't have a great eye and can't always tell if it's showing up, and partly because I just love it so much that I can't help but apply more than I may need. Oh, and also because the cute-as-a-button Posh Retractable Kabuki Brush is currently the only one I carry and it may be a bit much for blush application.

I have one in my bag and one at home and am considering buying more for the hell of it. I mean, they're so cheap I can't resist - less than $4! All I can think about when I see a product in Sephora lately is how many Golden Pink blushes I could buy with that money. I'm also going to get the Posh Retractable Blush Brush just to use with it (I use the Eco Tools one when applying at home).

If I were to ever have my own makeup line, I would surely copy this color. I think I'm going to go put some on right now.