Liner, Briefly

Since I've had an ongoing love-hate relationship with eyeliners for years (mostly pencil), my reviews of the products I've tried tend to be nothing less than novels. Last week, I stumbled a new formulation from Smashbox that promises to fulfill it's duties as a liner perfectly and keep such reviews brief.

Smashbox Limitless Eye Liner is supposed to be a waterproof, long-wearing liner. The 5 shades - Onyx (black), Java (dark brown), Indigo Ink (deep navy), Peacock (teal), and Black Violet (deep purple) - include all the basic and more fun shades the less-liner-saavy of us could ever want. While killing some time at Sephora one evening before meeting friends for dinner, I decided to give Java a try (because I'm basically obsessed with dark brown liners). I was prepared for another liner biting the dust, but there was not a smudge either on my lids or undereye after 5 hours or so. Pretty impressive for the near-tropical weather in NYC, my oily lids, and of course, the slippery lower rim/waterline.

In my brief experience, this formula went on very soft and smooth like many of the newest liner pencils out there these days, but wasn't too creamy. Basically, it felt like what many "kohl-waterproof" and other long-wearing formulas promise to do without sacrificing softness and pigment.

At $19 and a built-in sharpener, I'd say that this eyeliner is a better deal compared to similar high-end products. I love Lancome Le Crayon Kohl-Black Coffee, but at a whopping $24.50, it's hard to sustain such a smudgy habit (thanks to Ebay for getting my hands on that one). Make Up Forever Aqua Eyes are $17 - I'd pay the extra $2 for a sharpener and a great dark brown like Java (MUFE doesn't have a good one). The list is endless with Urban Decay and some good drugstore alternatives, but Smashbox looks to be an even more solid investment.

This is my new and only makeup craving and I'm hoping to somehow snatch up as many as I can.

Sephora Mattifying Powder Foundation

Recall how just yesterday I wrote that I have not blogged much this year due to reduced makeup experimentation? Apparently I'm a pathological liar, because that wasn't true either. Writing about Korres Abyssinia Voluminizing Mascara opened the floodgates that have been blocking my makeup stories all year. I would say that the biggest difference between two years ago and now is that my makeup trials are a little more focused and my collection rather well-edited. Oh, the dangers of satisfaction! It induces a non-blogging state of mind when there is actually lots to share.

Face powder is one of them. In case you haven't been able to tell, I'm rather inconsistent with my makeup use, and face makeup is no exception. I've looked for the right powders, foundations, concealers, and tinted moisturizers only to realize how infrequently I use them. That said, I still try to nail down some basics for myself. This past winter, I found a few products that suited me so well that I haven't had to throw them out and have not replaced them with anything else. The Sephora Collection Mattifying Powder Foundation is such a product.

Reason #1 - The color match. In my opinion, Sephora does a great job with shades for tan skin, ranging from olive/yellow complexions to more red/brown undertones. Even more high-end brands haven't achieved this. I have D32 (warm golden beige) for winter when my skin is paler, and it is perfect for my medium-tan (and rather yellow) Indian complexion. The Mineral Double Compact Foundation has a similar but slightly smaller range (for instance, it has D35-warm tan, but no D32). I tested it in the store but I find any sort of mineral makeup to be messy (even pressed powders) and it doesn't have my regular D32 shade (D35 is best only for summer).

Reason #2 - It meets my pretty basic expectations of a good pressed powder/foundation - mostly medium/sheer coverage, some oil control, and a polished look that isn't cakey or obvious. On bare skin, it's oil-controlling and non-drying, not even in winter (which is when I first started using this). I'm not sure how "mattifying" this would be for oilier skin since my skin has become drier over time but I imagine that someone with very oily skin is using some other oil-control product as well, so this would probably help things a long enough. I've worn this powder over foundation and/or concealer and it sets both well. Depending on my mood, I use either a big, fluffy powder/kabuki brush, or a round sponge (bought separately, not the one that comes with the compact).

Reason #3 - Blends easily and I can barely feel it. Very smooth, fine-milled formula that doesn't highlight any blemishes or imperfections by caking over them. Supposedly, this works dry or wet, but I prefer dry for now. Very simple application and worth the minimal effort.

In terms of price, a great compromise between over-priced high-end products, and also over-priced drugstore products (think of the similar new product from Neutrogena which retails for about $15; the Sephora one is $20). I would stock up since earlier this fall, they were sold out of D35 (warm tan - my summer shade) for MONTHS (not just at stores, but from the manufacturer itself).

I do have one complaint about the compact, but it applies to many products of a similar design that are out there these days (my LORAC Blush/Bronzer duo is one of them). This flip-top compact has a compartment under the powder tray for a sponge and mirror. I know companies started doing this because it was supposedly more hygienic. Eh, hygiene-shmygiene (says the Master's of Public Health candidate). The design is inconvenient and bulky, and I would have preferred it if Sephora didn't bother to keep up with luxury brands in that respect. Plus, the price would have been a little cheaper, although the $20 is probably about the cheapest you will find with this quality.

I wore this today and happy to report that my face feels, well, nice. It's Friday and my skin doesn't look pathetic - I'd say that's a pretty good start to the weekend and a pretty good reason to continue using this perfect powder.

On the Mascara Bandwagon: Korres Abyssinia Oil Volumizing Mascara

Yeah, I lied again. Back in January, I decided it was about time I returned to some beauty blogging only to write 1 post before promptly falling off the face of the earth - again. This time, I can't say that I've been as busy as in the past - just wasn't feeling the makeup experimentation much.

But of course, I still like pretty things. I like things that appear to make me look a little prettier. I love deals and sales, and shiny, sparkly little things. And so when I tried Korres Abyssinia Oil Volumizing Mascara (Black), I knew I had to share it with anyone who will listen.

I first became a bit of a mascara convert when I started using Dior DiorShow several months ago. As much as I wanted to hold onto that tube, I knew it was time to move on to a fresh one. I happened to have the Korres mascara from a value set I got during the holiday season at Sephora, and thought, why not? I had originally gotten the set for the four pretty, pretty eyeshadows and liner that it came with and not surprisingly, neglected the mascara.

Too bad I didn't find out sooner that this completely surpasses Dior DiorShow. I mean, Completely. I did love the Dior, but it did leave a little bit of smudging beneath my eyes at the end of the day. This never bothered me too much (although I did wonder why this would happen on a dry, winter face and with a waterproof version), but now I see how clean and neat a good mascara can be.

The formula is a good balance between inky/wet and creamy and evenly coated my lashes. There was almost no clumping and a few swipes of a lash comb helped ensure that (although even this isn't always necessary). The medium-seized brush made combing out all the lashes much easier and most importantly, kept them sort of - proportional. You know how sometimes certain lashes will look impossibly longer than others and it just looks sort of scary and spidery? Well, this mascara actually achieves great volume and a balance between natural lushness and drama. And no spidery, brittle little things branching out over the rim of my eye. Stayed put all day - no flaking or smudging (unlike Dior Show), and didn't show any sign of removal until I actually washed my face with water - and this isn't even a waterproof formula. In short, this is as close to perfect as I think a mascara can get.

Unfortunately, it costs $20, is out of my budget, and has unleashed an evil that threatens to throw me into some sort of mascara madness. I tried a CoverGirl Lash Exact which I found on sale and with one use, was so unimpressed that it is going back to the store. That gave me the dreaded Spidey Lashes. Next on my list are the new CoverGirl LashFusion and the original CoverGirl LashBlast, but I have a feeling I'll find excuses to get another Korres somehow. If it came in a waterproof formula, I might be more tempted to do a little Sephora exchange and just get it for the summer weather. I should add that a long, long time ago in a galaxy far, far away, I used Maybelline Full 'n' Soft, L'Oreal Voluminous, and L'Oreal Featherlash mascaras - all of which I found to be pretty good at the time. If all else fails, they might be worth another try.

In the meantime, is there a drugstore mascara that has this strange and wonderful-sounding Abyssinia oil??? I wonder if the Neutrogena Healthy Volume mascara with olive oil might be a good substitute. Or maybe it's about time I tried some of those big, fat, purple and orange colored tubes that everyone else seems to love. Since I've hopped onto the mascara bandwagon, I will probably be sharing that experiment all too soon.

These Are a Few of My Favorite Sephora Things

Most people (and bloggers) I know are not a fan of the Sephora brand of cosmetics. While I've experienced a few duds myself, there are a few products which suit me particularly well, and others that are a steal for the quality and price.

Like with many a "wheatish"-complexioned girl, it's often difficult for me to find the right shade of poweder, foundation, and concealer (although I never actually wear all 3 at once - just like to have them all in my makeup inventory!). So I was astonished to find a perfect foundation color match and formula in Sephora Brand Balancing Liquid Foundation, SPF 15. This product must not be a best-seller because it is constantly on sale at Sephora from $20 to $6 (like now, but only for a few shades online). But for some reason, it works for me. I can barely feel the light, non-greasy formula and because the shade is perfect, I actually get good coverage from it without a cakey effect. Another face makeup surprise from Sephora is the Light Touch Highlighter ($12), which looks to be a more affordable version of the famed Touche Eclat from Yves Saint Laurent. I have this in 05-Golden Beige, and again, the shade is a great match. What good is a concealer/highlighter that doesn't actually match your skin? So while this product may not actually be the best of its kind out there, it does have potential if you find a good match.

Another great new product from Sephora is the Nano Eyeliner ($5). Like the Prestige Total Intensity pencil I reviewed earlier, these pencils are extremely well-pigmented and smooth upon application. I especially love how there are 3 types of brown in the collection - Glitter Brown, Chocolate Brown, and Coffee. I'm a strong believer in dark brown eyeliners, and was glad to see a variety showcased in this collection, along with some great purples. These are a great alternative to the Make Up For Ever Aqua Eyes and the Urban Decay 24/7 eyeliners.

So if you are ever overwhelmed at Sephora with a thin wallet, and the drugstore is too far away, the Sephora brand might be your only escape.

Show me the Dior

Because I really love it. I fell for the Dior DiorShow mascara hype and I don't know if there is any way out. I'm not a mascara person, which true beauty junkies might consider blasphemous, but it is the truth. I always found that well-applied eyeliner was more effective, and I didn't like the feeling of heavy lashes. Until, of course, I discovered this stuff. I began to wonder why I had never noticed the pitiful, sparse state of my lashes, and have new respect for those who don't leave home without it.

There is just something about this huge mascara wand that is unlike any other - and I really don't know what it is. There is no clumping to create a set of 3 lashes, and even though my lashes already curl up, they just soar upwards even more when I use it. All this without making me look like a porn star. When I'm not wearing liner, I go for this with some gloss. Get the waterproof version - for some strange reason, it tends to smudge a little bit towards the end of the day, but I can't risk the regular formula with my sensitive eyes.

Glad to have found a reason to like mascara, and maybe I'll experiment with some more.

More from Jane

I thought it would be quite impossible to be more impressed by drugstore brand Jane Cosmetics' wonderfully inexpensive and quality products after trying out their new organic line. But Jane continues to surprise me. Here a couple of recent discoveries:

Staying Powder Loose Powder (Colorless) - I'd always wondered what the hype surrounding translucent/colorless face powder was. Is it really colorless? Is there hope of it providing any coverage? Will it really control oil/shine? Apparently, yes! Perhaps not to the degree you might expect from more heavy-duty products, but still worth it. Would I buy a translucent powder from an expensive Sephora brand? Probably not. But from Jane, it's just right. I decided to try out this makeup mystery with Jane's inexpensive version, and am happy to have this basic little jar on hand. The powder is light and non-irritating, and does control shine, although it definitely is not a long-wearing product. There are days when my skin looks like a patchwork of different shades and tones, and the last thing I want to do is add another. A light dusting of some colorless powder, however, gives your face a little polish without feeling heavy in the least, especially as the weather warms up. I find it easier to blend than my pressed powder from Clinique, and it works well for in-between seasons when you're not quite as pale as you were in December but the sun still hasn't warmed you up enough. Under $5.00, and worth a try if you haven't used a loose face powder before.

Be Pure Mineral One Liner (Ink Mica) - Alas, if you read my post about purple eyeliner from earlier today, you won't be surprised that I have also located the Perfect Blue. Like with everything-eyeliner, I have had issues with finding the right blue. I like sort of dusty-musty-inky blues that border on slate/gray, but are still pigmented enough to show up on my skin. Ink Mica is just that (the swatch on the Jane site does not do it justice). It beats out most of the blues and blue/grays from MAC (which has about as many liner shades as you can imagine), and reminds me of the discounted Slate pencil from Prescriptives. This is a mechanical pencil, which is nice because it allows you to create a thinner line. It also has a smudger on one end - again, amazing for the price of about 3 bucks. Goes on smoothly, and won't create a mess. What more could you ask for? Ah, yes, the Perfect Purple, but that's already been taken care of!

Prestige and a Powerful Plum: Total Intensity Eyeliners

Normally after I've disappear off the face of the earth, I assure you that I've been a busy beauty junkie with little time to share. This has not been the case over the last few months. For better or for worse, I've been hooked on a some great products, and few others have held much appeal for me. But like all my best beauty finds, my latest, long-overdue item was recently discovered accidentally at my boyfriend's, Duane Reade.

If you've followed this blog at all, you know I have serious liner issues, especially with these sensitive eyes and oily lids. I'm always searching for the perfect black, the perfect black-brown, the perfect liquid, the perfect pencil, the least smudgy, the just-smudgy-enough, and so on. Most of these quests are actually complete - I just had to find the Perfect Purple. Luckily, my faith in the beauty world was restored knowing that such a purple exists in the form of Prestige's Total Intensity Eyeliner.

This is really an amazing pencil for about $5.00. Seriously. It's way better than the usual inexpensive classics. Like the Make Up Forever AquaEyes pencils, it is super smooth, silky, and pigmented. In fact, it glides on smoother than the standard kohl liners (expensive and drugstore brand), which are typically the softest type of pencil liners (and also the messiest), on both the upper lid AND waterline. But unlike kohls, the Total Intensity liner stays put even on oily lids like mine. You don't have to worry about looking tired, sad, or bruised with this pencil.

I have this in Powerful Purple, and it is exactly the shade of purple I was looking for - dark like the skin of a dark plum, not overly purple, and not as stark as basic black. Basically, this is an improved substitute for Laura Mercier's Black Violet eye pencil (a kohl formula), which I was previously lusting after - a blackened purple that shows up well on darker skin, with barely noticeable shimmer. This isn't a Barney purple, so if you really want that kind of oomph, try elsewhere. If you want a softer effect than black and would like something other than brown or blue, this is the way to go. It's a subtle difference that only the obsessed might understand...

With a range of shades from black to green to purple, I highly recommend these pencils to all eyeliner junkies.

Duos to Love

It's a dreary, grey day in New York and I've got some matching grey eye shadow to go with it. Oh, the wonders of makeup. Amazing how a little dab here and there helps you ease into the mood of the day. Eye shadow is fun and helpful that way, and I recently found 2 extremely versatile and loveable duos that would work well on most skin tones.

NARS Duo Eye Shadow (Brazil) - I love this thing. It is one of the few products about which I have no economic-value doubts. It lives outside of my makeup drawer and has a spot reserved in my travel bag. With the most perfect, basic bronze and an almost metallic, slightly deep pink/mauve, I don't know how anyone can go wrong with this duo. The NARS description - "warm sand pearl/rose pearl"is pretty accurate once on the skin. It's fool-proof for any makeup "look" or outfit, any season, day or night. All I have to say is - get it. $32.00 @ Sephora

elf Duo Eye Shadow Cream (Pecan) - You know me - at 1 dollar, I would force myself to like just about anything. But with this friendly little pot, it wasn't hard. The Duo Eye Shadow Cream has a bronzey-brownie shade and a shell pink. The pink is a great highlighter, and I like the brown shade to dab over the lids. $1 @ elf cosmetics

Although the shades in each of these duos are different, they are equally versatile and easy-to-use. Neither is very overly-pigmented, so a good base or primer definitely helps, but that's the beauty of both. Very "me" kind of makeup and for once, extremely satisfied with both. With my Shady Lady Eye Shadow Palette from TheBalm, the possiblities are endless.

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...

Liner Pens

Hail liquid eyeliner, especially newer versions of the liner marker/pen. I've been sticking to this easy, defining swipe over the upper lid for a couple of months now, and found some products that help things along.

I lusted after the ck Calvin Klein Electric Edge Liquid Eye Liner Marker Pen for weeks before locating at one of 2 Sephora stores that carry it (34th St. - was sold out; the other is in Union Square). I thought it would be easier to use than it is. This nicely designed pen is really like taking a Sharpie to your lids, just with a finer tip. This sounds ideal, but turns out not to be because the tip doesn't bend/flex enough as you move along your lid. Instead, you have to draw a line with the tip on its side if you want a smoother line, which leads to a thicker line. I don't like thick lines so early in the morning. At night, they're okay. I prefer thinner for day. A good buy if you prefer this method of lining, although the cost is steep ($16) compared to these drugstore versions: new Revlon Colorstay Liquid Eye Pen ($9.00), Styli-Style Liquid Liner 24 ($2.00) and fresh Minerals ($4.00).

I'm still working with the ck pen, but may instead opt for L'Oreal Lineur Intense Liquid Eye Liner in Carbon Black. I previously reviewed the Limited Edition version in Defined by Plum, and am starting to think that overall, L'Oreal may have hit the nail on the head with this product. This is basically a wand with a soft, flexible tip - no brush, but also not a marker pen of the type described above. I had actually used up the Defined by Plum and was about to pick up the Carbon Black - picked up the wrong "black" and ended with another Limited Edition version with glitter in it. Seriously, who is still wearing such things?

Try the ck pen if you need a change but like the look of precisely applied liquid liner.

Black Radiance Eye Shadow Quartets

A while ago, I acquired a special holiday palette of eye shadows from The Balm and have overall enjoyed it immensely. At about the same time, I decided it would be fun to compare it with a drugstore version - you know, just for kicks. While this was semi-tough to do (drugstores often have really cheap, poor-quality palettes and kits out during the holiday season, none of which are appetizing), I did manage to find a collection of quads from the Black Radiance line which are surprisingly fun, easy to work with, and a little different from the usual drugstore fare.

I have 2 of the quartets - Deep Tapestry (blue/gray, deep purple, burgundy, and sand) and Desert Clay (shell, beige, gold, and brown). These shadows are surprisingly pigmented and soft, although their staying power is not the best. They blend easily and have the tiniest shimmer to them. What's fun about these quartets are the color combinations, particular Deep Tapestry - they are unusually sophisticated for drugstore line. Desert Clay is definitely a more basic quartet, and good to have for a quick fix although it's not as memorable. There are splashes of cool purples, greens, pinks, and blues in some of the other quartets, particularly Forest Sand, Blazing Beauty, and Retro Chic.

These are fun to play with if you're still in the experimental stages of eye makeup, and pretty dependable when you're not just playing around. At $4.00 each, you can't go wrong.

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?

Lotus Herbals Eye Liner

I know it seems that I'm on a herbal-makeup-skincare diet, but I'm not. I received some Indian products as a gift a few months ago, hence the Khadi love and now some thoughts on this eye liner. After requesting some Gala of London liquid liners before a relative from India came to visit, I was disappointed to learn that it may actually have been discontinued. As a replacement, I was given this liner from Lotus Herbals.

The packaging and feel of this product (and from the looks of it, others as well) was a bit old-fashioned and luxurious, kind of like the Indian version of Estee Lauder (not even Lakme). What I liked best about this liner is the sturdy, thin brush (but a bit too long), and the liner formula, which was thicker and creamier than most. This made it easier to apply, and it clung well to the brush.

The only real issue I'm having with this liner is that because it is already so creamy to begin with, it becomes even more so as it dries, making it hard to douse the brush in the liquid and pick up enough out of the tube. However, I do prefer it to the thinner, inkier formulas. Also, I didn't like that it turned into a deep, inky blue after very long wear, but I think that's pretty common with some supposedly "black" liners, and given that this herbal, you can't expect too much.

Overall, a very decent liner out of India. In terms of price, it is nowhere near comparable to Lakme but if you don't use liner like it's water, it may be a reasonable buy. Also a fun treat if you're just visiting the country, or in the position to request lots of fun nonsense from someone visiting you.

Fall/Winter Makeup Update

Wow, is it almost December already? Scary thought. I can't believe my evolution is - still evolving. The time is flying so fast, I really do forget how many days go by without detailing my current makeup trials and tribulations.

Given that I was still somewhat of a newbie when I first started blogging about them and the current fall/winter season, I thought it was time to update you on what has become near and dear to me.

On a daily basis, I've been using my L'Oreal liquid eyeliner in Defined by Plum, Cover Girl TruShine Lipcolor in Chocolate Shine, and the love of my life, Almay's Amazing Eye Liner in Black Brown. Blush enters in somewhat of a variety show, but big stars have been NYX Blush in Pecan and L'Oreal's TruBlend Blush in Subtle Sable.

Other products I continue to use regularly and which serve me well (both makeup and skincare):

Clinique Almost Powder (SPF 15) in Deep
Clinique Line-Smoothing Concealer in Deep Honey
NYX Eye Shadow Trio - Guru
The Body Shop Tea Tree Oil Blemish Stick (a real life-saver)
Burt's Bees Soap Bark & Chamomile Deep Cleansing Cream
Phisoderm Gel Clarifying Moisturizer
Nivea Lip Care
MAC Lipstick in Polished Up combined w/ Milani Lip Gloss in Taboo

The cooler weather and much clearer skin (thank you, Tretinoin) have been helping things along quite a bit, and I'm grateful. Fall/winter are definitely favorable makeup evolution seasons - too bad I started this over the summer. You live, you learn.

The Bomb of an Eye Shadow Palette

In an effort to ease my eye shadow experimentation, I've been trying to find a great palette instead of collecting singles. Usually, I either don't like all of the coordinated colors or not all of them actually suit me. The only one I love so far is NYX Trio in Guru. A few weeks ago, I finally found a high-end palette that does the trick - TheBalm's Shady Lady Eye Shadow Palette (limited edition).

This amazing palette has NINE eyeshadows/shadow liners (including 3 new ones) in an assortment of shades and formulas suited for almost any occasion or makeup mood. They are:

Caught in the Act Courtney (rich brown with gold sparkle)
Shameless Shana (tahitian bronze)
Luscious Lani (icy pink champagne)
Jealous Jordana (rich shimmering green)
Risque Renne (dark navy blue sheen)
Curvy Camy (plum shimmer with gold flecks)
Jet-Setting Jennifer (pale gold shimmer)
All About Alex (olive shimmer)
Easy Wheezie (gunmetal gray shimmer)

You see that there is a nice mix of deep jewel tones that double as eye liners, neutral shades, and metallics. And, of course, there is my requisite plum. All these shades work together in a number of different combinations, or can be used alone.

Best of all, I actually really like the quality of TheBalm's eye shadows (see experience with Mysterious Marissa). While clearly you have to be a bit more careful with the shimmer/sparkle and darker shadows, the lighter ones are a breeze to use. My favorite ones are Jet-Setting Jennifer, Easy Wheezie, and All About Alex. They work on just about everybody and are so easy to use, no experience is necessary.

The only "eh" factor with this palette - the leopard print cardboard packaging. Not exactly discreet or sophisticated. Like other TheBalm shadows, this is a large cardboard flip-top with a magnetized lid to for secure closure. Just to be on the safe side, I wish they had changed the packing for this product (and taken down the ugly factor a few notches).

As important as the versatility of this palette - the price. At $15 each, nine TheBalm shadows would normally cost you about $135. This palette is $38.00 and in my opinion, actually worth every cent. Limited Edition @ Sephora

Mad Purple Disease Continues

Ah, I appear to be slowing down with my makeup evolution, huh? No worries - I'm always trying new things, they have just been a bit redundant lately. Lots of different purple and plum eye shadows, nail polishes, and a new lipstick find. I haven't had as much time to browse of late in Sephora so drugstore thrills have been the way to go. Then again, I am slightly obsessed with drugstores anyway so this really isn't out of the ordinary. Moving on....

Purple, purple everywhere! 2 shadows to try:
Maybelline Expert Eye Shadow Single in Amethyst (High Pearl finish) - This is a gorgeous new shade from Maybelline. It is a bright, blue-based purple with a slightly gauzy, neon pearl finish. I know that sounds weird, but I don't know how else to describe it. This shade would be a lot more in-your-face and pigmented if it were a high-end brand. But I found that I can wear this shade rather easily with just a few swipes over the lid. It applies smoothly and is sheer enough to layer as you like. I promise you that this can be work/day appropriate. It's a unique color that avoids giving you a blackeye but also isn't too disco-queen. Hoping to experiment more with this as a crease shade and with smudged kohl eye liner instead of the liquid I'm currently using.


L'Oreal HiP Concentrated Eye Shadow Duo in Charisma - This cute little pot features two complementary pink and purple shades. The pink is somewhat lilac/silver toned, and the royal purple has some hints of shimmer. While this seems like a very versatile combo, the shadow itself is a bit hard to apply and blend. Additionally, I find this kind of purple can quickly give way to a fake blackeye. It's definitely more of traditional crease shade for a smoky eye (which I have yet to master) so I don't find it as easy-to-use (or fun) as Maybelline's Amethyst. But worth a try if you're experimenting.

Maybelline Expert Wear Single Eye Shadow, $3.79 & L'Oreal HiP Concentrated Eye Shadow Duo, $7.00, both @ Drugstores

L'Oreal Lineur Intense Liquid Eye Liner - Defined by Plum

Finally, a purple/plum liner that lives up to its name. While this limited edition liquid eye liner from L'Oreal isn't perfect, it has temporarily satisfied my purple obsession.

First, what I like - the color. This is a deep, deep eggplant shade that is almost black - almost a liquid version of Laura Mercier's Black Violet kohl pencil. On the eyes, this gives the definition of a black liner without looking too stark against the skin. At the same time, it doesn't have the muddiness of dark brown liners. Overall, a great liner shade for olive/tan complexions.

What I don't like - the ridiculously long wand. It's literally like 4-5 inches long. I don't know when cosmetics companies will understand that this does not make application easier.

What I'm neutral on - the felt tip. It's kind of funny - very easy to use and gives a surprisingly fine line. However, it's not tapered to give that pen-like form. Just kind of strange. But hey, it works, so I'm not complaining.

This is one of the few purchases in recent makeup history that I have not returned - give it a try! $7.99 @ Drugstores

Purple Is The New Black

So proclaimed an ad in Sephora, and I wholeheartedly agree. Purple makeup is everywhere and I'm loving it. From smoky eggplants to neon purples, there are simply too many variations to resist, no matter what your personal preferences. Plus, they look good on most skin tones. If you're not into purple makeup, it's showing up in everything from shoes to bags.

Purple can be a hard tricky color to work with, no matter what the shade - after all, you don't want to look like someone just punched you in the face. An Indian's Makeup Blog has some great tutorials on purple makeup. My personal recommendation is to go easy and start with what makes you most comfortable. This week, I'll be experimenting with L'Oreal Lineur Intense Liquid Eye Liner in Defined By Plum and a light dusting of deep lavender and bronze shadows.

Below is a list of some high/low end purple makeup to try. Happy purple!

Drugstore

• NYC Color Wheel Mosaic Eye Powder - Purple Rain
• Prestige Eye Shadow - Velvet, Blossom, Bisou, Bacchus, & Royale
• Maybelline Expert Wear Eye Shadow - Amethyst
• Milani Eye Shadow - Shock (Powder), Royalty (Runway Eyes), & Couture in Purples (Runway Eyes Fashion)
• L'Oreal Wear Infinite Eye Shadow - Plum Royale
• L'Oreal HiP Eye Shadow Duo - Sculpted & Charisma
• NYX Eye Shadow Trio - TS6 (Purple, Deep Purple, Prune) & TS3 Lake Moss
• NYX Single Eye Shadow - Violet, Eggplant, Red Bean Pie, & Burgundy Pearl
• Jordana Eye Shadow - Sweet Plum
• Jordana Eye Liners - Purple Fusion, Parisian Plum, & Eggplant
• L'Oreal Limited Edition Plum Collection products: Lineur Intense Liquid Eye Liner - Defined By Plum, Wear Infinite Eye Shadow Quad - Purple Mosaic
  

Sephora/Department Store

• Calvin Klein Eye Shadow Quad - Purple Variation
• Bobbi Brown Eye Shadow - Velvet Plum
• Laura Mercier Eye Shadow - Black Plum, Kir Royale, & Plum Smoke
• Laura Mercier Kohl Eye Liner - Black Violet
• Urban Decay Eye Shadow - Flash, Crash, & Purple Haze
• Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-on Eye Pencil - 1999, Rockstar, & Lust
• Urban Decay Lipstick - Apocalypse
• Clinique Creme Shaper for Eyes - Starry Plum
• Clinique Kohl Shaper for Eyes - Black Amethyst
• Make Up For Ever Eye Shadow - Deep Plum Shimmer Iridescent 79, Matte Dark Purple 160, & Purple 92
• The Balm Shady Lady Eye Shadow - Curvy Cami & Just This Once
• MAC Eye Shadow - Purple Haze
• Rock 'n' Ruin Pressed Eye Shadow - Purple
• Stila Eye Shadow - Batura
• Stila Eye Shadow Duo - Orchid & Vieux Carre
• Cargo Eye Shadow - Cyprus
• LORAC Eye Shadow -After Party & Rhapsody
• LORAC Starry-Eyed Baked Eye Shadow Trio - Starlet
• Sephora Brand Enchanted Eye Palette - Plum

Much Ado About MAC

Of late, I must admit that I have been contemplating returning to MAC liners for my eye-defining needs. I have found 2 drugstore liners (pencils & liquid) that have been satisfactory, but only in certain colors - black and black/brown. For more interesting colors/formulas, I've been reflecting on my past MAC experiences and think that it's time to revisit.

Which is why I'm excited about a couple of new liners from the company's limited edition (of course) collections. Pearlglide, from the Suite Array collection is described as a "creamy kohl-like eye liner with a sparkly, reflective finish...Highly pigmented: stands out for its rich, luxurious colors and pearl-metal look." This is a look/finish/formula that I've been very eager to work with, but have found that other brands (drugstore and not) didn't have the color payoff I need for my skin. Knowing MAC and from this description, these might be the more pigmented formulas that I need.

The 8 available colors are - Black Russian (black with navy blue glitter), Molasses (dirty brown with midtone brown glitter), Bankroll (rich green with bright green sparkle), Fly-by-Blu (light blue with blue glitter), Wolf (deep gray with gold glitter), Rave (deep purple with purple glitter), Miss Fortune (eggplant with light pink glitter), and Spare Change (midtone brown with copper glitter). Miss Fortune could hopefully fulfill my BIV (blue, indigo, violet - purple shades) quest.

I thought Pearglide might be similar to this summer's Starflash series in a wider (and better) range of colors, but from the descriptions, I'm not so sure. The swatches for these liners are lighter than expected, and I'm hesitant about the "glitter" and "sparkle" content.

Next, the Dual Edge Eye Pencil (limited edition), which has a regular liner on one end and a glitter-based one on the other. Again, I'm not sure how I feel about the glitter-end, but the pencil reminds me of a similar one from Vincent Longo that I've admired for months.


When it comes to shadow, also eye'ing the Eye Shadow Suite in Team Violets. The Rose duo is picture here - so pretty, and it's nice to see duos from MAC.

If all of the above fail to impress, I'm going to go stick with a Powerpoint or two for a while and see if a few months of experimentation has changed my view on them. I will test and report back soon.

Liquid Liner from London

For months now, I've been meaning to tell everyone about a great liquid eyeliner that my sister-in-law in India uses.

No, it's not from Lakme. It's the Liquid Liner from another Indian company called Gala of London. Like Lakme's, this one comes in a small glass bottle that actually looks like nail polish. In my opinion, liquid eyeliner in the US is packaged horribly, and you don't get nearly as much for your money as you should.

What I like most about Gala's liner is the extremely small brush that makes it nearly impossible to make a mistake. It's perfect for painting a very thin, fine line. The only other liner brushes that have come close to are Chanel (a few years ago) and Hourglass. With other brushes, it's hard to paint with short "strokes" because they are often too long or thick - you either draw a straight line or you don't. If you don't, some fixing is usually requird. The Gala brush actually lets you use the "stroke" method to create a more natural line. It also comes in a range of colors - black, brown, blue, green, and grey, and apparently now in a waterproof formula as well. I have not used this in quite a while, but of all my liquid eyeliner experiences, this was definitely nearly the best.

Unfortunately, Gala of London products can only be found in India, although I was able to find one on Ebay (here - this seller also has hard-to-find products like Shahnaz Husain Kohl Kajal) for $3.99 - pretty good considering how much you get and that it's from India. I'll refrain from ordering because my sis-in-law will be visiting soon so I can have her pick one up for me for less than $1.00! If you wear liner daily though, this is definitely worth it.