On Trend: Vampy Lips



From left to right: singer Lana del Rey, actress Camilla Belle, and actress/singer Kate Bosworth

 Dark, vampy lips made a comeback at the recent Met Gala, a surprising move since we're on the verge of summer. Although these  looks weren’t my favorites (Scarlett Johansson in Dolce & Gabbana and Jessica Alba in Michael Kors take the cake in my opinion), I must say I am very intrigued by this look. It’s certainly not for eating and much less for kissing, but it has a tough girl vibe that should absolutely be worn with a good pair of heels. Here are some tips to achieve the look:

Pick your Perfect Shade: Fair skin tones should wear brick red or berry; medium skin tones should go for burgundy or maroon; while darker skin tones can pull off wines and browns. But at the end of the day, wear the shade you like the most. Life's too short to stick to "safe" shades. As long as it doesn't wash you out of course...

Prep: You should always exfoliate your lips before wearing lipstick and even balm (so the moisturizers seep deep into the skin) but you should do so particularly when wearing a bold lip. I mean, you don't want them to look like alligator scales...

Precision, Precision: Darker shades call for absolute precision-- any little imperfection will be noticable. Invest in a lip brush or line your lips slowly using the lipstick bullet directly or lip liner. Fill the color in once  you're done.

Make Corrections: Just like you're supposed to edit your writing, take a concealer brush or sponge and go around the lips with either foundation or concealer. This will correct the slightest imperfections and will prevent the lipstick from bleeding.

KISS (Keep It Simple, Stupid): Please, please, please keep the rest of your makeup to a minimum. The sophistication of the dark lip will turn into baudy clown makeup with the inclusion of a dark eye.

So what do you guys think? Is this look a YAY or a NAY? Let me know below!

                                                                  Jennifer 

My Makeup Essentials

Ever since I developed interest in beauty products and skin care at the wee age of 13, I've need to have certain items in stock. Of course these aren't the only products I use (I do like variety) or the only ones I've tried throughout the years, but the ones I need to survive at the moment.

MAC Mineralize SatinFinish SPF 15 Foundation ($30): I picked up this bad boy when I got my makeup done for prom, and I don't regret it a bit. This gives you full coverage without all the heavy consistency that clogs pores. Just dab some on and spread with either a brush or sponge (you can even use your fingers if you like) and VIOLA! a perfect face for any occasion.

Benefit Erase Paste in No. 2 ($26): My younger sister Lorraine actually got me into this little potted piece of heaven and I thank her for it. This concealer is thick, so you can only use a bit on each eye or else you'll suffer from the dreaded cake face. Because of this, the pot will last you for a long time. Trust me, I've had mine since early August and it hasn't dried out. My only ugh is that it is not long lasting, so powder well!

Benefit Benetint ($29): This is honestly the best thing since sliced bread. This is a rose tinted and smelling stain that can either go on your cheeks or on your lips. Personally, I just leave it on my cheeks for a natural glow.

Mascara: No-brainer make up as it gives a little color to your eyes without the hassle. I don't like splurging on mascara (it should be thrown out after six months in order to avoid any illness), so I like using Estee Lauder and Clinique samples.

So, what can't you live without? Have you tried any of these products? Let me know below!

                                                                              Jennifer