Summer Series: Long-Lasting Makeup

Urban Decay All Nighter Makeup Setting Spray was the best investment in makeup I’ve made to date. I’ve been using it for over a year now and continue to absolutely adore it.  I initially decided to experiment with a trial size of it in the months leading up to my wedding. I was looking for a product that would make my makeup last longer and stay put throughout the day, night and in whatever elements the day would bring (tears, sweat, rain – I wanted to be prepared for anything and everything). What I found was a product that did everything I hoped for and more!

My wedding day came, and my prayers for sunshine were answered! It was a record-breaking day in terms of heat with temperatures soaring around 105 degrees. I relied upon my Urban Decay All Nighter to carry my makeup through the day. It did a fabulous job! There were so many opportunities that day for my makeup to slide off my face: a plethora of kisses on my cheeks from excited guests, humid and hot air pressing against my skin, and a little bit of sweat from dancing the night away. Touch-ups were unnecessary and I was able to enjoy my wedding without worrying about my makeup.

A year later, I continue to enjoy this product. Although I don’t find it necessary 7 days a week, I do reach for it very frequently. Additionally, it is always a must when I’m doing makeup on a client as well.

Using this product is simple. After you’ve applied your makeup simply hold your hand about 8 inches away from your face and spritz your skin with the mist about 2-4 times.

Neutral nails are incredibly chic. They go with every single outfit you wear, look exceptional with jewelry, and gorgeously understated. While the allure of neutral nails is simplicity, this look can often be difficult to achieve. Some of the things to consider when selecting a pale polish for yourself include: opacity, undertones, and quality.

Some neutral shades are super sheer, like Zoya Erin or Essie Allure. While others, like Essie Topless & Barefoot & Essie Fiji are more opaque. In my experience the sheer options are the best because they are the easiest to work with. I paint my nails pretty often and am often in a rush. The sheer versions do not showcase imperfections like their opaque counterparts can.

Undertones are important to consider when selecting a polish. For example, have you ever picked a color and thought that it looked great in the bottle/on a friend but looks awful on you? I have. Orangey-reds are probably the worst color for me. However, reds with a cool blue undertone are really flattering with my skin color. It is worth it to compare your skin undertone to that of the polish. In terms of neutrals, Zoya Cho looks so pretty in the bottle, when I apply it to my nails, the yellow undertones are very apparent and make the product unusable for me (must find someone to pass this on to). :)

When it comes to nail polish, higher quality products include Essie, Zoya, OPI, & Butter London. All of these brands have classic neutral colors to choose from. My favorites are: Essie Allure, Essie Waltz, Zoya Erin,

There are some classics that I am anxious to try: Essie Mademoiselle, Essie Ballet Slippers, OPI Ballet Slippers and Butter London Yummy Mummy. I know, I know… I will get on this soon! :)

A fun option with neutral nail polishes is layering. Try layering Essie Waltz on top of a coat of Essie Allure. You can experiment with different colors and combinations. Try layer a sheer nail polish over an opaque one, or a shimmery polish over a matte one.

Nail polish testing trick: use a piece of clear tape on the back of your hand. Put a dot of the nail polish on top, let it dry and make a decision. Also, walk outside to see the polish in natural light. The bright or fluorescent light may alter the appearance of the shade indoors. If it is flattering, buy it. If not, leave it and try a different color.

xo,

Katie

As I got ready this morning I realized over 50% of the products I used were from the drugstore. Even with higher-end, more expensive options on-hand, I didn’t reach for them. I’m doing a tutorial on the products I used because I love them and think they are worth investing in.

Face:

Garnier Skin Renew Miracle Skin Perfector B.B. Cream

Garnier Skin Renew Anti-Puff Eye Roller

Revlon Photoready Foundation

Maybelline Dream Matte Powder

Physician’s Formula SPF 20 Bronzer

Eyes:

NYX Liquid Felt Tip Eyeliner

Maybelline Color Tattoo – Bad to the Bronze

Covergirl Shimmering Sands Eyeshadow Trio

Covergirl Lash Blast mascara

Lips:

Smith’s Rosebud Salve Balm – Strawberry

Revlon Super Lustrous Lip Gloss – Pink Pop

Nails:

Essie -Waltz

These products are easily accessible, inexpensive and high quality. Let me know if you give any of them a try!

xo,

Katie