I realize that not every girl spends a good amount of time perfecting their "look of the day" each morning, and I respect that to the highest degree. We live in a generation where confidence is key and self-love is promoted by people that we idolize. We are thriving in a feminist culture, where we are told that we woke up looking "flawless," whether or not we put on a layer of foundation with a beauty blender. However, we also are surrounded by a culture of beauty standards. From eyebrows being "on fleek," to highlight cheekbones so bright that they could blind someone, the trends are endless. Both of these sources of confidence are important in the daily life of a girl - you should feel great whether or not you have a full face of makeup on.
Yet, when you tell me that I should wear less, that's when we have a problem.
Ever since I mastered the art of a winged eyeliner, I haven't been able to let it go. Sure, I don't want my wings to flyaway every single day, but it is one of my favorite looks. When I discovered how different shades of lipstick could enhance my outfit, I have never wanted to stop adding a brand new one to my collection. I'll admit that my "high school freshman makeup look" consisting of dark brown eyeshadow was a little over the top. Yet, I have since discovered how a gradient blend of shadows brings out my eyes and finishes off a look seamlessly.
When you tell me that I "do not need all of that foundation," I want to explain to you about the dark circles and blemishes I have when I am barefaced at six o'clock in the morning. I would much rather have my complexion look a little cleaner and even, and excuse me if I opt to cover up my dark circles to brighten up my eyes. This way, you won't ask me if I am not feeling well, if I didn't get a lot of sleep last night, or something to that extent.
Not everyone can go lay out in the sun and wait for their skin to accomplish a natural-looking suntan. That's why I feel better reaching for my blush and contour set when I want to add a little dimension to my fair skin. It might stop you from commenting on my level of paleness that day. Plus, who cares if I want my cheekbones to look like they have been carved out of stone?
When you ask me, "How do you feel like doing your makeup in the morning," I have an answer for you. For me, doing my makeup in the morning is the one thing I do feel like doing. I have the chance to create a different look each day, and the opportunity to be creative as possible by matching looks to outfits. It is actually my own personal alarm in the morning. It gives me a routine, and gets my mind thinking - will it be Naked 1, 2 or 3?
Every makeup look is a different form of self-expression, and if you are talented with cosmetics, it can serve as your signature in a friend group. People love when you can help them get ready for something special, because they know that you are skilled with a blending brush. So, why not show your skills off to the world on a daily basis?
Lastly, I have paid for all of my makeup products. I have tirelessly tried out multiple foundations, eyeliners, and more, just to find the perfect matches. They are my Beauty Insider points, not yours. You don't get to control what goes on my face, or how much of it I apply. Furthermore, my love for makeup has given me an instant connection with others, and has been an easy conversation starter. When someone compliments you on your makeup, you feel flattered and accomplished.
I admire every single girl who loves walking out of the door with a clean complexion - no primer or foundation to be found. I respect girls who maybe just apply some mascara and call it a day. I think it's great if you just want to blot on some lip stain and a touch of nude eyeshadow. So, when you see me with winged eyeliner one day, plum lipstick the next, and an Urban Decay eyeshadow look on a Monday morning, don't be too quick to judge. If I'm being honest, you might see me wearing what I just described to you all at once- and that's okay too.
Your face is your canvas ladies, paint on it if you desire.
