Maybelline

Cream Eyeshadow

Are you afraid to navigate the world of cream eyeshadows? For some, there are simply too many unknowns like, “Do I use a brush or my fingers for application?” or “Do I buy a cream eyeshadow stick or a pot version?” Well, leave all the doubts behind because we are about to deconstruct cream eyeshadows.

First of all, do not be afraid to use a cream shadow. In fact, cream shadows are much easier to maneuver because they can be applied by using your fingers. Now, creams do dry quite quickly, so be sure to blend as soon as you apply. If you can’t bring yourself to apply using your digits, then I highly recommend MAC brush 217. You simply cannot go wrong with the mother of all blending brushes.

As for choosing between pots or sticks, I personally like both for different reasons. For instance, shadow sticks are very easy to apply straight to the eyelid. However, they can dry out quickly if you do not keep the caps on tight. The same can be said about cream pots, but I normally keep them in their original box packaging to help increase their shelf life.  So have no fear and have fun with some cream shadows.  You will love the added dimension they give whether or not you decide to place a traditional powder shadow above it.

Below are some of my absolute favorite cream shadows:

  1. Maybelline Eye Studio Color Tattoo Eyeshadow ($6.99 at Ulta):  The Maybelline cream shadows are not only affordable, but they come in an array of colors. If you can only choose one from their collection, I would highly recommend Bad to the Bronze. This is a fabulous neutral that goes well with eyeshadows in the same color family.
  2. Benefit Cosmetics Creaseless Cream Shadow ($20 at Ulta)
  3. Marc Jacobs Twinkle Pop Stick Eyeshadow ($28 at Sephora):  If your looking for a perfect shade for the inner corner of your eye than I highly recommend the shade Honey Bunny.
  4. Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Cream Shadow Stick ($29 at Sephora)

September 2016

  • Tom Ford Eyeshadow Quad in Nude Dip

    Tom Ford Eyeshadow Quad in Nude Dip

  • Tom Ford Eyeshadow Quad in Nude Dip, close up

    Tom Ford Eyeshadow Quad in Nude Dip, close up

  • Tom Ford Eyeshadow Quad in Nude Dip, swatches

    Tom Ford Eyeshadow Quad in Nude Dip, swatches

For those of you who are new to Tom Ford Beauty products, you should definitely look into incorporating some pieces from his collections. One product I seem to reach for time and time again is the Tom Ford Eyeshadow Quad in the shade Nude Dip ($80). What makes this item a must-have is “each eye color quad is designed with four opulent complementing shades that achieve multiple looks, from a bold, smokey eye, to a sexy slash of color and everything in between. Formulated with advanced color processes, the four luxurious finishes — sheer sparkle, satin, shimmer and matte — offer a spectrum of intensity and effects and deliver incredible shade fidelity and outstanding adhesion” (Selfridges.com). The Nude Dip quad is my go-to shade because of its combination of nude, beige and cream colors tend to be universally flattering and can be layered over any paint pot or eye shadow cream stick to elevate the look.

This product is enjoyable to work with because of the consistency of the texture. The Tom Ford Eyeshadows apply smoothly and are highly blendable, making it almost impossible for even a novice to mess up. Furthermore, the shimmer shadows have a sheen to them that does not look cheap or glittery, which I can certainly appreciate given I’m closer to the being 40 than 20. As we age, many makeup artists tend to lead women away from any eye shadows with satin, frosts or pearl sheens. And yet, with the Tom Ford Eyeshadow Quads, there is no reason to feel afraid of using such textures because the quality is that good. This eye shadow will not emphasize fine lines or exaggerate the eyelid shape.

Lastly, the packaging is absolutely divine. The high gloss plum/bronze color with Tom Ford’s signature name in gold speaks to the sleekness of the product both inside and out.

Insider Tip

The following cream shadows, used as a base in conjunction with the Tom Ford Eyeshadow Quad in Nude Dip, will bring your look to another level.

  1. Maybelline Eye Studio Color Tattoo in Creamy Beige, Bad to the Bronze and Tough as Taupe ($6.99)

 

 

Pretty in Pink

Femininity – a singular word with so much meaning and symbolism. I equate femininity with beauty, strength, sensitivity, motherhood, sisterhood, independence and the freedom to express these things as we choose. This expression can take the form of wearing a pair of fierce heels, donning sexy lingerie, spritzing your most adored perfume, or by wearing your go-to LBD (little black dress). When I want to tap into this side, I don’t have to look any further than my vanity, where I can paint my nails a subtle shade of pink or apply my beloved fuchsia lipstick like MAC Girl About Town ($17).

My love affair with this shade, I assume, began from the moment I received my first JEM doll with the wild pink hair. From that moment, I’ve gravitated to the color pink and incorporate it into my beauty routine, especially those moments when I feel most in touch with my femininity. Whether I’m on a date with my husband or playing the role of a princess in my sons’ interactive plays, pink represents me and all those things I cherish as a woman. It means even more when I purchase a piece of makeup, like Bobbi Brown’s The Peony Set ($50), where all proceeds go to supporting the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

So for those moments in your life when you want to feel “pretty in pink”, I say go for it!

My Favorite Pink Products

  1. Maybelline Color Whisper by Color Sensational (7.49)
  2. NARS Lip Gloss in Turkish Delight ($26)
  3. MAC Cremesheen Glass in Boy Bait ($20)
  4. Too Faced Liquified Long Wear Lipstick ($21) in shades Melted Peony and Frosting.
  5. Essie Nail Polish in Mademoiselle and Ballet Slippers ($8.50)

Insider Tip

Most often, when you buy a product directly from a brand’s website, you may get a 10% to 20% discount off your first online purchase.

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