Makeup has become an outlet of creativity that leaves the eyes to create a story of their own. While it is fun to create different looks with makeup items, sometimes it is reasonable to get back down to the basics. The Ride-or-Dies. These are my personal go-to items. Now, I'm a college student, so I like to stay within a reasonable budget. I'm not going to lie, though, there are some high-end products that are just necessary, and in the end, are worth the money!
1. Foundation
Ah, of course, start with the base! I think of a foundation of a house being built; it has to be strong to hold all of the things that will go on top. My go-to is L'oreal True Match foundation (I wear Buff Beige). This foundation has a natural finish that isn't "cakey." It allows for your skin to breathe, while also giving you great, build-able coverage.
2. Eyebrows
Eyebrows can sometimes get tricky. If you are not an expert on filling in (like myself!!!), then they can easily become a disaster. The Benefit Gimme Brow is a tinted gel that allows you to fill in your eyebrows according to their natural shape. It is also double duty, being a gel (to hold brows in place) and tinted (to fill in the scarce spots). Gimme Gimme!!
3. Contour
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Why have plastic surgery when you can use bronzer!? Carving out my cheeks and contouring is one of my favorite parts of makeup! It can change the structure of your face in seconds if you so desire. The best bronzer I have used is in Kat Von D's Shade and Light palette. I like to mix the lightest and darkest shade to achieve the best color for my skin tone. Although this item is pricey, the splurge is worth it! I have had it for months, and I use it everyday.
4. Mascara
Mascara is definitely something that I like to use even if I don't wear any other makeup. There is something about your lashes being a little darker that just instantly puts your whole face together (even if you woke up 20 mins late and have class in five). I have very straight lashes, so a trick that I have found is that if you use waterproof mascara, it keeps your lashes curled all day! My favorite is Maybelline "The Falsies" mascara!
5. Highlight
I saved the best for last. Highlighting has become a staple in my routine. It gives your skin a natural glow that shimmers through all kinds of light. The healthy glow gives a youthful appearance to the skin, and it's not just for your face! I like to swipe it over my shoulders, collar-bone, and down my legs for a shimmer no one can resist! Check out the brand Becca. They have the most pigmented, yet natural powders, creams, and sticks that aren't sparkly. My favorite shade is Opal.
