I love makeup. I really love it. But you wouldn’t know by looking at my makeup collection or at my face actually, because I don’t wear a lot or buy a lot. But I am a champ at browsing makeup stores like Benefit and Mac and every now and then, maybe buying a new liner or eye shadow color palette in the same colors I bought the three before that. Exciting, I know. So when my dear friend Alexis (who is staying with me for a few days before she moves to ITALY) told me she needed some makeup before leaving, I dragged her to the drugstore. While I’d prefer to buy all natural chemical free makeup all the time, it’s pretty expensive and just don’t wear it often enough. Anyway here is Alexis all pretty like at my wedding – she’s on the left:
happy bride’s lady Lex.
So after hearing from my friend who works at Dior that all makeup is basically manufactured in the same place, I wondered why I was shelling out $25 for a lipgloss or eye shadow. Onto the drugstore we went, basket in hand. She came home with $50 worth of makeup that would have been over $100 at a department or makeup store, no doubt. She bought a blush, pressed powder, mascara, black eyeliner, eye shadow palette, and two lipsticks.
our palette.
Being the sweet friend that she is, she let me do all her makeup, just like when we used to get ready before going out to a party in college. Except back then our makeup choices were probably more embarrassing. What we really learned from this whole adventure is that blush is crucial. Who knew? I didn’t. In the winter when you’re feeling the opposite of tan and a little washed out? Blush wakes you up, makes you look alive. I am now a blush devotee. So here is the before and after of my beautiful friend – first photo is no makeup, and the second photo is a perfect look for any holiday party.
pretty without makeup.
And here’s what $50 in drugstore makeup can do – isn’t she gorgeous?
the most enviable eyelashes ever.
The blush is Maybelline FIT in medium pink, and the lipstick is Revlon in Are you Red-y. Being that this red was to die for, I also bought one. Although I have a feeling it will get really cozy in my bathroom drawer – I do love my chapstick!
I had a brain fart while I was packing and forgot some make-up essentials for our trip back east. I referenced this post while searching through the drug store make-up aisle! Just thought I’d let you know
Sweet! So glad it helped
I’m the opposite of you. I’m not a huge fan of make up but I seem to have tons of it and the make up I do wear you can’t even tell I’m wearing anything. However, this post made me get excited about make up again. That lip color!! Your friend is very beautiful but you did a wonderful job with her make up! High five!!
xo
Rachel
Thanks Rachel! The lip color is great, right? Outside of my comfort zone but perfect for the holidays.
You’re right! Those lashes! Okay… trying the mascara. And P.S. Your little boy is SO cute. Happy birthday to him!
Thanks Ashley! and yes, try the mascara! (the waterproof one leaks way less
gorgeous! and i too believe blush is crucial…
Right? Makes all the difference.