lipsticks tips & favorites

Let's talk about the wonderful world of lipstick, shall we?

First, I would like to acknowledge how awesome it is. There are few things that come in such a small package, and yet have the power to completely change a look. It's relatively cheap, there are a thousand options from color to finish, and application is pretty fool proof.

While some women hop from various colors and brands, others have a lipstick that is "theirs." It is a color they feel comfortable in and keep coming back for. Having a favorite color is cool, but it's fun to try new things! Especially when it's something that's so easy to remove.

A few tips when choosing a new lip color:
1.) Consider when you'll be wearing it. Are you looking for an everyday lip color, or a product for special occasions? If it's something you'll wear everyday, choose something you feel comfortable in. If it's going to be a "special color," pick something slightly out of your comfort zone!
2.) Decide what kind of texture and finish you like. Thick and matte, or creamy and glossy? Remember that this choice will probably affect how long it lasts on your lips. The glossier the lip product, the faster it will come off (generally).
3.) Taste and fragrance. Do you like your lip products to smell, or do you prefer fragrance free? If you don't mind fragrance, smell different brands and find one you like.
4.) Skin tone is the most important thing to consider when choosing a color. Eye and hair color can play a role, but figuring out if you have a warm or cool undertone to your skin will really help narrow down your options!
5.) Try it on if you can. If you're shopping in a department store with testers, don't just try it on your hands. The shade will look different on your lips! Kindly ask the person behind the counter to clean off the product for you.

Here are a few of my favorite lip colors! Personally, I like to stick with warm tones such as red, orange or coral. 

1. Sephora's Rouge Cream lipstick in "It Girl." This lipstick is a rich orangey-red that is super long wearing and highly pigmented. It has a nice matte finish and ultra thick texture. This is the only lipstick of mine that I like to apply with a brush, because of the texture and deep color. Putting on a bit of chapstick before hand is a good way to go, because it can be a little drying.

2. Clinique's Chubby Stick in "Mega Melon." This product is great for summer because it's less of a lipstick and more of a tinted chapstick. Made with mango and shea butter, it feels great on the lips. Also so easy to apply! No need for a mirror.

3. Clinique's Butter Shine lipstick in "Ambrosia."  This lipstick is a Clinique "Butter Shine," lipstick, which means it has a glossier texture and finish. I love, love, love this color. Orange red with little specks of gold, it's perfect if you have a warm undertone.

4. MAC's "Vegas Volt." I wasn't sure about this color at first, because it's lighter and more pink than I usually wear. But it soon grew on me! The texture is smooth and it wears great throughout the day.