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Photos by Alise Jane
I always find that smokey eye tutorials can be so overly complicated. They call for so many different products and so many different techniques but let’s be real for a second. When you’re getting ready for your next holiday party, you might not have all the time in the world to experiment and potentially land up with a black eye look right? That’s why I like to keep my party makeup looks easy but still beautiful and my smokey eye step by step tutorial is no different, in fact, this is my easy smokey eye tutorial. It only requires you to have two products, and you can do it in two steps.
Step One:
Grab your favourite eye pencil and make a super thick line. You want a pencil that is creamy and blendable. I use the Armani eye pencilin either black or brown.
Step Two:
Grab theArmani Sheer Fluidin Shade 10 and pump it out onto your hand. With you fingertips, blend into the eyeliner and spread this around your eyelid. Ta-da, you’ve got a smokey eye! What I love about the sheer fluid is that you can use this in other areas of your face to achieve a natural glow and highlight as well.
Top this look up with mascara for a dramatic look or an extra eyeliner touch up! Would you try this? Comment below with your smokey eye tips!
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Whenever someone asks me how to cover up dark circles (which people ask me a lot by the way!) my answer is always the same; you need a really good concealer. I’m not one to wear foundation every day. I usually rely on concealer and a great lipstick which is why having a good one is so important to me especially when I have a day full of meetings, events and shoots. With so many different options on the market, it can be hard to sort through the noise. Luckily for you, as someone who has suffered from acne scarring, spots and dark circles, uneven skin is no surprise to me. I’ve shortlisted some of my favourite concealers of all time that will actually do what any good concealer should do; cover up imperfections! From Charlotte Tilbury to NARS, you’re going to find one you love.
I never thought I could love a concealer as much as I love my NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer. It has quickly become a hero product for me, and one that I use almost every day. So much so, that I’ve already bought my second one since first trying it out in March. The consistency is light and easy to apply but the coverage is next level! It doesn’t feel like you are wearing concealer. I can rely on this concealer to instantly brighten my face without it looking cakey or made up. My favourite part about this concealer is how natural it looks and how well it blends with my skin, evening out my skin tone and covering up any imperfections. I literally look flawless!
I wear shade Biscuit
[This concealer was initially gifted to me by NARS for a paid promotion however all thoughts and opinions remain my own]
Not long ago I did a Youtube videoabout this concealer with my true initial reaction. (Should I start my YT up again?) This concealer is exactly what it promises to be, MAGIC. I was shocked at how well it covered up not only my spots but my dark circles. It immediately brightened my entire complexion and it lasts really well through the day. Thanks to its sponge applicator, it doesn’t crease under the eyes when applying, letting you really blend it in.
[This concealer was gifted to me by Charlotte Tilbury however all thoughts and opinions remain my own]
Okay, now this is not strictly the best concealer out there but it is one of the best spot treatments that is tinted. Available in three shades, this new formula from skincare powerhouse, Dr. Barbara Sturm, is all about combatting acne and fighting off redness and spots while covering them up. Although the coverage is not the best and you will need to apply another concealer on top, I still wanted to include this in the list because of how well it fights and heals acne.
Bare Minerals was one of the first makeup brands I ever started using and the fact that I still use them today is a testament to their amazing product. Their concealeris one of my longtime favourites because finding a perfect match for your skin is so easy. A seamless blend into your skin and the coverage is high! I also love that it’s not as expensive as some of the other brands but still does what it promises.
The Chanel concealer is one of the newest additions to my concealer collection but it wasn’t long before it made this shortlist. Just like all the ones I listed above, it’s perfect for covering up imperfections quickly. My favourite thing about this concealer is how lightweight the formula is. It feels like there is nothing on your skin! I love when something is light but still does its job!
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I have a gifting relationship with Charlotte Tilbury however I bought the product mentioned below myself. I also have a gifting relationship with Chanel Beauty. I was gifted the Rouge Allure Lip Powder however bought the ? myself. I was also gifted the product from Chantecaille. All thoughts and opinions however remain my own.
IMPORTANT NOTE: I know that in India skin tone is a big deal and there is a lot of emphasis on being “fair”. I know that this is an issue in other countries as well. I just wanted to take a moment to point out that colour does not define beauty. You could be any shade on the spectrum and still be beautiful. I don’t believe that being fairer or darker makes you more beautiful and I don’t think there is anything wrong with the colour that you are now. Embrace it and don’t ever forget you are gorgeous, no matter what colour you are!
As a brown girl, finding the perfect shade of any makeup is no easy feat. One of the things we all want to wear is a beautiful red lip, but when you have a skin tone closer to mine, the line between beautiful and overkill is fine. Brown girls, you know you’ve thought about how to wear red lipstick without it looking too crazy, right? After years of trial and error (including wearing some not so flattering shades…) I’ve found the best red lipsticks for brown girls like me. So, whether you’re looking for the perfect lipstick for Indian skin or the best red for a darker skin tone, you’ve come to the right place.
My list has been narrowed down to the five best. I chose these while keeping a few criteria in mind. Firstly, how well does it really suit my skin tone and girls similar to me? Secondly, have I bought the colour again? Lastly, have I ever received any compliments on it? With that in mind, I was able to pick these five red lipsticks that are perfect for darker skin tones.
I discovered this colour a few years ago when I saw Negin wearing it on an Instagram post. I hopped down to the NARS counter at Selfridges to give it a try and have never looked back. I’ve bought this colour multiple times over the past few years and have recommended it to so many friends. What I love about this one is that it suits a range of skin tones and still maintains that red colour we are all after.
If you’re an OG reader of TSS you’ll remember one of my original brown girl tips; going for a red that is closer to brown is more flattering and achieves the same effect. A colour I always have is Charlotte Tilbury’s, Birkin Brown. I love this shade, it makes a fabulous statement. It’s also a great colour to mix with others to achieve the perfect custom red lipstick. I have previously had a gifting relationship with Charlotte Tilbury but I discovered this shade myself and have always bought it myself.
Some of you may remember my surprise when I tried on this Chanel colour on my Youtube video. I was shocked that such a bright shade of red could actually look this good on a skin tone like mine. Since then I’ve been bold enough to wear it out and have actually received a lot of questions and comments about it. This is great for when you want a really bright and beautiful red.
This product was gifted to me by Chanel however all thoughts and opinions on it remain my own.
If you’re looking for something that is a bit more sheer, good for every day and just adds that touch of colour to your lips, then this Tat Harper lip balm is your new best friend. This particular colour was gifted to me by the brand and It’s quickly become my go to for when I’m rushing out the door but still want a burst of colour on my lips. It’s also super moisturising which makes it perfect for winter.
This product was gifted to me by Tata Harper but all thoughts and opinions remain my own.
This is a new discovery that I made recently at the NARS counter. I’m obsessed with the deeper red tones, which can be built up for a more intense look as well. You’ve seen me mention it a few times on my Instagram stories as well and I’ve been wearing it on repeat! A new must have colour I think.
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Every month the beauty industry releases a whole new set of products but today I’m focused on the best new makeup in October. As you know, I’m constantly on the hunt for the products to toss and the best beauty products to add to cult classic product status. I know it can be hard to sift through these constant new releases but for your autumn beauty routine I’ve narrowed it down to three must-have beauty products to add to your shelfie as soon as possible. From Chanel beauty’s latest release to a primer that combats pesky spots, you’re going to be falling hard for one of these three!
Chanel beauty products, especially their makeup range is one of those things every chic woman needs in her routine. Their lipsticks have always been a favourite of mine but this season they have released a brand new lip stain with a powder matte consistency. Yes, you read that right, powder. It feels silky smooth on the skin and makes your skin velvety. The matte finish is so on trend for autumn beauty in 2018 and it comes in a fabulous range of colours. My favourite, that I’m wearing here, is ?
When a beauty product is multi-purpose, I’m always more intrigued. The L’oreal x Isabel Marant Wanted Clear Brow and Eyelash gel is one of those products that I have been loving. You can use it to keep your brows in place or you can use it on your eyelashes every day instead of your mascara for a more natural looking lift. Of course, a dramatic mascara like the Hourglass one creates a fabulous effect (my current go-to mascara) but this is more fabulous for every day since it’s natural yet still does what it’s meant to. Instead of looking too made-up you look effortless. Isn’t that what we are all trying to achieve?
We know that I struggle with acne, and recently with a very strong course of retinol my skin has been ‘purging’. I needed something to help me balance the oils on my skin as well as fight those pesky spots. Enter: Cover FX Mattifying primer. The primer is infused with a bit of salicylic acid which is known to fight any pimples, whiteheads and unwanted bumps on your flawless face! It’s also a matte finish which helps to make your skin appear even. You can wear it on its own or you can use it as a base for your make up. A must have for those with acne prone skin like mine since it works on your skin while you wear it.
When packing for a summer holiday, it’s important to switch up your makeup and beauty routine and make sure that you’re packing the best products for your getaway. Some of us prefer to head to the beach completely make-up free, but others are looking to get that perfect natural make up look at the beach. To do that you need the best sweat resistant and waterproof makeup products, which is why I’ve rounded up my current favourites! Here are my five best beach makeup products that you need this summer and why!
If you’re wondering what else is on my holiday packing list, click here!
If you’re looking for a lightweight, sweat resistant foundation that has SPF in it as well, look no further than Perricone MD’s No Foundation Foundation. I’ve spoken about this product multiple times before and I swear by it for a day to day foundation that is light enough to not look cakey. I love that it has SPF 30 in it as well. It’s a great item to put on your face to protect from the sun without clogging up your pores.
Throughout my trip, my girlfriends were asking me what the secret to my shimmery legs was. The answer is the Nuxe Body Shimmer! Every night I would apply this to my legs and my collarbones for a very subtle shimmer to my skin. I love this product because unlike other tinted body shimmers, this one does not leave any stains or marks. This is also a great product to keep your tan looking great once you’re back from your holiday. You can also apply this product to your face and your hair.
When you’re on the beach, the last thing you want is powdery products. That’s why I always opt for liquid-based blush. You also want to keep things as minimal as possible, which is why a multipurpose makeup product is also a great option. This YSL Kiss & Blush is perfect for that flush of colour on your cheeks and a dash of colour on your pout!
I think that if you were to walk out on to the beach with only one item of make up, a statement lipstick is what you need. It’s the perfect way to look put together and summery on the beach without trying too hard. My current obsession (and my go-to for my entire trip) was a mix of two Tom Ford shades. The first is this coral orange shade called Contempt I then tone down this shade with the second nude shade, Public Display.
I hate chipped nails, especially on a beach holiday. Sometimes I dont like to apply shellac to my nails because it can make them weak but luckily Essie Polish is a great alternative. With their amazing top coats, the polish doesn’t chip as easy and lasts much longer! This shade is called At The Helm and is my current summer obsession.
New Beauty Products That You Won’t Be Able To Live Without…
It takes at least a month for you to see a difference with any beauty product. That’s why I’m here to do any trial and error for you and showcase the best of the best each month. This month, I was all about finding my glow to kickstart 2018 with some shine and sparkle. Whether that meant an everyday shine with an upgrade to my daily lotion, soft and supple skin or a show-stopping new lipstick, I was covered in every base to make every day a good one. After much searching, trying, and experimenting, I bring you this month’s, beauty must-haves so that you can find your glow too!
Surprise surprise, I have a Dior makeup recommendation! (Cmon Dior, can you hear me? I love you guys!) . No joke, this has quickly become one of my favourite beauty products. The concept is simple. Add a few drops to your foundation for an instant natural-looking glow. I don’t like to wear foundation every day, so instead, I add a single drop to my daily moisturiser. The results have been instant and I couldn’t be happier! This gives my face a subtle shine and makes my appearance so much healthier! I highly recommend for daily use, or to mix with your foundation for a night out! (Then I would use two drops instead of one!) I use Shade 003.
One of my least favourite things about winter is dry skin. If I miss a single day of moisturising, my skin becomes dull and dry. When you’re rushing to get to that morning meeting though, there just isn’t that extra minute for the lotion. Instead, I’ve found the perfect two in one solution to all our morning moisture worries! This body wash from Jo Malone is a scrub as well as a soap. It leaves my skin soft and fresh and ready for the day! I use the Geranium and Walnut scented one! I find that the smell really puts me in a good mood in the morning too!
When I’m buying lipsticks, I always look for colours that stay on all day. I hate when you’ve just applied your lipstick and after that first sip of coffee/wine, it’s all gone! Nothing more annoying right? That is exactly why Nars is a company that I always go back to for lip products. Their pigments are strong and stay on all day, no matter how many sips you’re taking! My current favourite winter shade is called Het Loo. It’s a mix between a brown and a red and is perfect for literally any occasion! It comes in a pencil, but has the consistency of a lipstick! I highly recommend this, it’s such a universally flattering shade as well! Plus, look at how worn my pencil is! That’s how much I’ve been using it!
Can you believe it’s already that time of year? Christmas is around the corner and I’m really feeling the festive spirit this year! As always, I have lots of gorgeous gift guides planned for you but I’m taking a different approach this year! I personally love giving and receiving presents that are a little different, a little out of the box, something you may not have thought of before. That’s why this year, I’m sharing gifts for the special ones in your life that you may not have thought of before. I guarantee they will all blow their stockings off!
To kick things off I’m starting with the perfect presents for the beauty junkie. Every single one of these 12 presents has been carefully curated for that makeup lover in your life. Trust me, one of these things is probably on their wishlist already! There is something for everyone in every price range! Although some items look really expensive, I was pleasantly surprised by some of the prices!
If this isn’t what you’re looking for, don’t worry! I have many more gift guides coming your way. You can find the schedule at the bottom of this post so you know when to check back!
One of the questions I am often asked by you guys as well as family and friends, is how to make eyelashes look longer. Although I don’t wear mascara every day, when I do, I want a product that is going to enhance my features. That way, I know I’m sharing the best with you guys! In this case, I’m here to share the best mascara out there to create longer lashes. A couple of weeks ago, I met one of my closest friends and not only did her eyes look amazing, but her lashes went on for days! She revealed her trick to me; instead of opting for black or brown mascara, she instead went for purple! Although it might seem crazy, coloured mascara provides a contrast. This gives the appearance of longer lashes, and also makes your eyes pop! I immediately went to test this out and found that she was totally right! Since she’s a little lighter than me we noticed that purple suited her but didn’t look as fabulous on me. Instead, I found that burgundy mascara did the trick! My eyelashes looked longer, but still natural and the burgundy really makes the brown in my eyes pop! Such a simple trick for longer eyelashes instantly!
With the change of seasons comes the change in our wardrobes, but also the change in our make up kits! I find that one of my favourite things to do is to pick out my best fall lipsticks for the season and put them into my rotation. As the temperature continues to drop, I’m really feeling darker tones, some of which are still quite natural but just give you that extra edge. What I love the most about all of these lipsticks for fall is that you could just glide them on for the perfect lip and rush out the door, nothing else necessary.
Charlotte Tilbury Very Victoria
This shade is one of the best nudes I own. I love that it’s more of a brown tone rather than a pink. It’s great to layer on another shade to sober it down, or just on its own for a nude lip. (Yes, lipstick layering is a thing!)
This is one of those shades that suits EVERYBODY. I’ve had three different friends try it on, all with varying skin tones, and every single one of them has loved the shade so much that they all have their own now! It’s incredibly versatile and the colour is enchanting.
Talk about a colour that lasts! This colour really stays on your lips for ages. It’s the perfect tone to take you through a day of meetings and through to drinks. It’s a bit of a dark pink but shows up beautifully – one of the best pink lipsticks!
Also more of a pink, this is something that just looks like you have the prettiest pink pout around. I use this one more for everyday and it’s so easy to just drop into my bag. Quick tip, layer this underneath a nude for the perfect natural look!
Yes, I have another Charlotte Tilbury in this mix – her colours really are beautiful! This is a really dark brown, it’s the perfect statement lip if you don’t have time to put on any other make up or are just looking for that one wow factor. What I love is that it isn’t a classic red, it’s just a little different and really suits skin tones like mine!
