My skin in this rough Chicago winter can get crazy, so I use two different moisturizers depending on how it's feeling. Normally, I use
Kiehl's Acai Damage-Correcting Moisturizer (it's organic!), and on very dry days I use
Kiehl's Creme d'Elegance Repairateur, a rich cream that will leave no dry skin behind! My motto is 'when in doubt, use Kiehl's'. ;]
I also have some skin redness and to nip that in the bud I use
Smashbox Photo Finish Color Correcting Foundation Primer. If that's not enough, I use
Benefit Boi-ing Concealer. When they say it's industrial-strength, they're not lying, it can cover almost
anything. And if you're looking for full-coverage when it comes to foundation, I swear by
Chanel Perfection Lumière Fluid Makeup. It's extremely long-lasting and it comes with a must-have SPF. I was always wary of liquid foundation as I'm not very savvy in the makeup department, but with the right brush, blending is a breeze.
I'm not blessed with brows like Jill, so I fake it 'til I make it with
Benefit Brown Zings, a kit that has it all. Now it's time to add color - on a budget. I love the choices of
Sephora Collection Colorful Blush. The shades are great and will last you through the day (or night) and at 14 bucks a pop, you can't beat that.
As an eyeglass wearer, I tend to go easy on the eyes - I love my thick frames and I don't want to go overboard, so I stick to neutrals. For eyeshadow, I love one of Urban Decay's newest products, their
Naked Basics Palette. Six completely matte colors work well together or alone and and it's a palette any pro or first-time user can master. If I'm getting fancy, I'll add some liner. Jill, myself and some other lovely bloggers went to a
Pretty Powerful event and I was wooed by
Bobbi Brown's Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner. For the not-so-savvy, this liner is easy to apply and make it your own! Lipstick is probably my least-used item in my makeup bag. I have this irrational fear that it's going to get everywhere, but I will bust it for those events and date nights. My top choice?
MAKE UP FOR EVER Rouge Artist Intense, specifically the Moulin Rouge, a perfect vibrant red. And now my absolute favorite... The cult classic,
Dior Diorshow Mascara. It's dark, thickening, and doesn't flake. Win, win, win!
