You've seen them on labels in the skin care aisle, but how much do you really know about antioxidants and what they do? They're more important than you think and can help make major improvements to your skin's appearance — in more ways than one.
This post was sponsored by Garnier Skin Active.
8 things your skin can tell you about your health
The best makeup for your face (or, how to avoid that weird color clash)
I finally listened to my mom and started going makeup free
From golden goddess to puerile puppy, Snapchat photo filters are super fun. But the best part: they somehow make our selfies look gorgeously airbrushed!
More: Dermatologist tips to keep Halloween from effing up your hair and skin
Who knew a person could look so pretty done up as a doe-eyed deer? This Snapchat filter gave us the inspiration for the perfect last-minute Halloween makeup, especially for gals who prefer to channel something whimsical, as opposed to wicked. And happily, there’s no need for an in-house pro makeup artist to get this look—it’s really simple to do on yourself.
More: 15 drugstore beauty gems that you should definitely try
You probably have what you need in your current makeup arsenal:
Makeup
White paint stick
Translucent powder
Black ink gel eyeliner
Bronzer
Neutral lipstick
Highlighter
Mascara
Sponges and brushes
Makeup sponge
Foundation brush
Powder brush
Small eyeshadow brush
Full eyeshadow brush
Circular brush
Eyeliner brush
Angled brush
Ready for the easy, breezy how-to? Check out this video:
Grab a pair of deer ears and you’re good to go! Happy Halloween!
Before you go, check out our article below.
Whether you choose to dress up as Wonder Woman, Harley Quinn, or even your favorite emoji, there's a good chance your costume will require you to experiment with products that might wreak havoc on your skin and hair. I turned to three leading dermatologic surgeons — New York City-based Dr. Sejal Shah and Dr. Jessica Krant, and Omaha-based Dr. Joel Schlessinger — for tips on what to look for in Halloween makeup and hair color. They also dished on how to prevent a post-Halloween breakout, which products are safe for sensitive skin, and how to detox your skin after an indulgent night out.
1. No matter what, wash makeup off before bed
"By far, the biggest mistake people make is not taking their Halloween makeup off before going to bed," explains Dr. Schlessinger. This can lead to clogged pores, irritation, breakouts, and infections. Make sure to check the packaging to verify whether there are special instructions for removal.
It's important to know what kind of makeup you're wearing. Water-based makeup is generally a lot less stubborn than oil or grease-based formulas. Whatever you opt for, never use harsh scrubbing motions on skin. Your regular makeup remover should wipe clean most Halloween makeup.
Once the bulk of makeup is removed, follow up with a second cleanser to eliminate any pore-clogging residue.
More: The latest lip plumping trend requires surgery
2. Just say no to last tear's makeup
Makeup generally expires within a year, especially if it contains low-quality ingredients. "Not only will you not get the best results, year-old makeup could be harboring bacteria, fungi or even staph, all known causes of potentially dangerous skin infections," explains Dr. Schlessinger.
3. Choose costume makeup wisely
Costume makeup isn't formulated with skin health in mind. This type of makeup often contains artificial dyes, fragrances, waxes and oils, all of which can clog pores, cause breakouts and irritate skin. Low-quality Halloween makeup can even contain ingredients that aren't approved by the FDA, such as certain fluorescent dyes. They may also contain chromium, nickel, cobalt or lead, four known skin irritants.
If costume makeup is a must, Dr. Schlessinger recommends looking for oil-free, alcohol-free cosmetics with a water base. "Ointment-based makeup is much more likely to clog pores," he explains. "You'll also want to do a patch test on your neck or the underside of your arm with any new formulas to be sure your skin can tolerate them."
If you have sensitive skin, it's better to skip costume makeup altogether and stick to the same makeup you use every day. Eye shadows, bronzers and blushes can play double-duty to create bruises and other creative effects on the skin.
More: Does insurance actually cover cosmetic surgery?
4. Halloween hair: Opt for a wig
"A wig is a far better option than any type of hair color because it's mess-free, contains non-toxic ingredients and doesn't require any extra shampooing," Dr. Schlessinger said. The colorful hair sprays available during the Halloween season are typically very low-quality, contain harsh chemicals and can be highly flammable.
Test any synthetic material you're wearing on your scalp or skin first. Similar to makeup, wigs and other fabrics can irritate. "Masks may contain paints with heavy metals like lead or chemical plasticizers that can potentially be absorbed by the skin," Dr. Shah said. With anything — makeup, fabrics, masks, wigs — it's best to test it on the skin before leaving it on for long periods of time.
5. Wash out temporary color ASAP
Temporary colors can take a toll on your strands. Halloween hair color has the tendency to stick to the ends of hair because those ends are the most porous, points out Dr. Schlessinger. It can also stain sensitive skin on the scalp and depending on the formula and your hair type and color, it could take two to three washes before color is completely removed.
The less time the color is in your hair, the easier it will be to wash out. Save this step for right before you walk out the door and plan on washing your hair as soon as you get home.
When it comes time to remove Halloween hair color, choose a mild, clarifying shampoo. Don't forget to lather, rinse, and repeat until the water runs clear. To restore lost moisture, he recommends a rich conditioner and a moisturizing, reparative mask like Peter Lamas Youth Revival 5 Oil Hair Treatment Mask.
6. Beware of sugar
"It's finally becoming clear within nutritional science that sugar is a bad actor," Dr. Krant said. Sugar is proinflammatory, which can lead to long-term stress on blood vessels and organs, but can even cause short-term stress on the skin.
According to Dr. Krant, inflammation can lead to breakouts, flares of rosacea and even dandruff.
"It's hard to say how much candy you'd have to eat in a single night to notice a difference the next day, but since Halloween can come along with a few weeks of eating more candy than usual, it's worth a mention," she said.
Once that sugar is in your system, it's not easy to prevent your body's natural reaction. Dr. Krant suggests drinking a few glasses of water before you go to sleep to help dilute and flush the sugar out of your body.
7. Go easy on the booze
"Drinking alcohol causes dehydration overnight and into the next day, which can lead to an increase in dullness and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles," Dr. Krant said. It can even be associated with more rashes and breakouts.
To avoid or minimize alcohol-induced skin issues, limit the number of drinks you have and choose drinks with less sugar. Dr. Krant suggests mixing alcohol with club soda and a lemon twist rather than tonic water or cola.
When it comes to wine, Dr. Schlessinger recommends opting for red. Skip the white, which has more fructose.
More: 6 Big mistakes you’re making when trying to better yourself
There are personal staples in everyone’s (beauty) bag of tricks. Some swear by mascara; others refuse to leave home without a red lip or the perfectly arched brow. If you’re all about skin, however, you might want to consider adding the best highlighters known to man to your arsenal.
More: 101 Tips for Getting the Clearest Skin of Your Life
If you’re an expert at the art of Kardashian-style contour, you’re already familiar with highlighter makeup’s magical properties, but if you live in fear of looking like you fell face first into tub of glitter, relax. These highlighters are subtle and radiant, like the best kind of real-life Instagram filter. Promise. So sit back, relax and scroll through this roundup of the best highlighters on the market, and get ready to glow.
No matter how you feel about the Kardashians, you have to admit that their makeup game is pretty unparalleled: those girls glow. They've got this very special highlighter to thank—each of the shades imparts a ridiculously luminous finish that shines without any sparkle. No wonder they're constantly selling out. (Anastasia Beverly Hills $28)
The liquid version of this silky powder is the stuff of legends, but we prefer the "pressed" take on it—so much less mess, and fewer opportunities to waste product. They have an almost creamy bounce to them, and they reflect light like nothing else we've ever tried. (Becca Cosmetics $38)
You can use this in the same old places you’d put highlighter—cheekbones, brow bone, temples—or you could branch out and try a hint of this shimmery, apricot-colored powder on your collarbone or shoulders. The glow it casts is so lovely that we’d hardly want to restrain it to just the face. The possibilities here are endless. (Nordstrom $44)
This is the shade that works for every fair complexion. This product wins awards for good reason—it’s the gold (or "shimmering pearl") standard for a multitasker. Use it on your cheekbones for a supernatural glow, blend it into your lids for a subtle pick-me-up, or dab it on your temples and blend well. (NARS Cosmetics $39)
Packaged in a handy stick format, this highlighter is a little glitzier than the other options here. Used sparingly, it enhances golden and olive toned complexions the best, but can be used for a more dramatic look if you’re fair-skinned or have pink undertones.(Benefit Cosmetics $30)
With a distinctly golden cast and a slew of natural, good-for-you ingredients like argan and grapeseed oil, this liquid works best on olive and golden complexions. For a more subtle, all-over glow, mix a drop or two with your favorite foundation or moisturizer. To amp up the radiance, apply this anywhere on your face where the sun naturally hits.(Sephora $26)
A staple of beauty editors everywhere, this golden balm imparts the right amount of luminescence on every skin tone. Formulated with ingredients like coconut oil and rosemary extract, it feels good on the skin and blends easily for the most natural-looking glow money can buy. (RMS Beauty $38)
This palette features three finely-milled luminizing powders in varying shades, perfect for every skin tone. Meant to mimic the natural light of the sun right before it sets, or a candlelit room, the Hourglass palette creates a natural, lit-from-within glow that livens up any look. Brush some anywhere you’d use bronzer, and ready yourself for compliments. (Hourglass Cosmetics $62)
Originally posted on: StyleCaster.com
There is a unique terror attached to attempting to seek out just the right makeup brush in a world of so very, very many. This is understandable — sure, you can tell what brushes are for, but determining the correct ways to use them is a different story entirely.
Brushes for your face, brushes for your eyes, brushes for your brows: They’re all out there, and they’re all pretty much essential for getting your makeup on just right. So, as a public service, we’ve rounded up a guide to makeup brushes you’ll want to get your hands on post haste. (And, of course, how to use all 18 of ’em.)
More: 11 Cheap Makeup Brushes to Buy ASAP
The unassuming fan brush has several key purposes: You can use it to sweep on blush, blend other makeup, clean up excess powder, and brush a light layer of highlighter along the cheekbones. (e.l.f. Fan Brush, $2)
Necessary for filling in your brows with powder — a good brow brush should be angled so that you can tackle even the thin tail-ends. (Japonesque Pro Angled Brow Definer Brush, $14)
The most ubiquitous of all brushes, the powder brush should be in every makeup collection—use it to apply any type of powder product. (Real Techniques by Sam & Nic Chapman Powder Brush, $7.99)
The name is a dead giveaway: This brush is a must-have for blending eyeshadow into your lids. (Bobbi Brown Eye Blender Brush, $34)
Use the tiny squared-off tip of a lip brush to get a crisp, defined line of color. (Charlotte Tilbury Lip Brush, $26)
With its wide rounded bristles and super soft feel, the kabuki is perfect for applying everything from loose powders to bronzer and highlighter. (bareMinerals Full Coverage Kabuki Brush, $28)
Use a small angled eye brush with gel liner or powder shadows to get a perfectly defined eye look. (Target $5)
The tapered but soft bristles of this brush make it perfect for precise shadow application. (Jane Iredale $20)
The easiest way to add definition to your face—just sweep on some bronzer in the hollows of your cheeks using a fluffy angled brush. Perfect for applying blush or highlighter, too. (Ulta $26)
Firm, narrow, and tapered at the end, concealer brushes are the best way to put concealer exactly where it needs to go. (Nordstrom $25)
Score a smokey eye with a soft-bristled smudge brush. (Nordstrom, $24)
You can use this multipurpose tool for grooming both your lashes and brows—comb through your lashes to get mascara clumps out, and use the brush to perfect your brows. (Sephora, $15)
Not technically a brush, but an essential tool nonetheless. Perfect for using with liquid foundations, concealers, and pretty much anything, it leaves skin with a smooth, flawless finish. (beautyblender, $20)
Originally posted on StyleCaster.com
Until recently, liquid lipstick—especially matte ones—was a sort of an irrelevant category mostly found in the dustiest aisles of the drugstore beauty section. But then, just like that, someone snapped their fingers (no, not Kylie Jenner—this predates her!) and liquid versions of our favorite shades flooded the market.
More: 25 Epic Drugstore Products to Never, Ever Upgrade
The term “liquid lipstick” once translated to a dry, uncomfortable mess of pigment that would be impossible to get off, but no longer. Far from it, actually: the best liquid lipsticks these days are so superior to their counterparts of old, they barely even have anything in common.
These formulas are made to give rich, opaque color with incredible staying power—something that traditional lipsticks just can’t do. Easy to apply, no lip liner required, and available in a variety of finishes in every shade possible? Yes, please.
More: The Lipstick Quotes We Choose to Live By
The queen of brow products is also the brains behind this outstanding liquid lipstick, which has had a cult following (that includes the Kardashians, of course) since it first launched. The ultra-pigmented matte formula glides on like a dream for vibrant color that stays all day, and you can snag it in 21 different shades. Like. (Anastasia Beverly Hills Liquid Lipstick $20)
The longevity of this formula is unparalleled: It applies wet, almost like a gloss, then dries down to an ultra matte yet ultra comfortable finish that doesn't budge. (Sephora, $20)
This under-the-radar formula is the stuff of legends—it's been around for a few years, but buyers still go completely nuts over them. Rich, vibrant, and with a beautiful velvet matte dry-down, these babies don't budge … and you wouldn't want them to. (Lime Crime $20)
Perfectly matte, creamy, and with 33 (!!) colors to choose from, you can’t go wrong with these longtime fave lip creams. They glide on smoothly and don’t emphasize any of the fine lines or cracks in your lips—and to top it all off, they smell amazing. (NYX Cosmetics, $6)
Not a drill: you can literally fall asleep with this on your lips and wake up the next morning with color leftover. It's a trooper. The shades range from silky satin to legit gloss, all with excellent pigmentation. (Revlon Colorstay Ultimate Liquid Lipstick, $11)
Beautiful, rich color for under $5? Don’t mind if we do. This formula is available in two finishes, so you can choose between matte or glossy. With a doe-foot applicator, they are easy to apply and come in a variety of shades ranging from flattering nudes to bright reds. Perfect to throw in your bag and to apply on the go when your lips need a little pick-me-up. (Walgreens $5)
The innovative formula that started it all, the sleek packaging and ever-growing shade variety continue to make these a perennial favorite. They apply glossy, dry matte, and provide intense color payoff that never bleeds or feathers. (Stila Cosmetics $24)
Originally posted on StyleCaster.com
Having oily skin can be maddening any time of year—how are you supposed to keep your makeup on when it keeps sliding off?—but that frustration increases when all oil-production hell breaks loose. Good stuff.
More: The Case for Making Peace with Sweaty, Shiny Summer Skin
The default solution to this conundrum is to say that a primer will solve all your problems, but the truth is that not all primers are created equally. The best primer for oily skin, however, can change your makeup game and keep it that way. You’ll get smoother, clearer skin, a more balanced complexion, and makeup that lasts all day long.
More: 7 Face Powders That Kill Your Shine—But Not Your Glow
Behold, the very best primers for oily skin that you’ll find anywhere.
This luxurious mattifying powder-gel is an oily skin lifesaver, whether you wear it alone or under makeup: As a primer, its lightweight texture softens and hydrate, and plant extracts help control sebum over-production for a long-lasting matte finish. (Sephora $36)
This oil-free foundation primer is formulated specifically for people with oily skin to create a silky smooth canvas from the get go. Throughout the day, it holds up to combat excess oil and absorb shine while hiding pores, fine lines, and wrinkles. (Sephora, $24)
When primer pros Smashbox release a new formula, makeup lovers pay attention—and this one did not disappoint. The non-drying formula locks in makeup and absorbs oil to keep your face shine-free throughout the day. Plus, it's sweat and humidity-resistant for up to eight hours, so consider it a safe choice for summer. (Smashbox $39)
This lightweight primer quickly minimizes the appearance of pores and fine lines to help makeup stay put. The super silky texture leaves skin super smooth and shine-free, and the vitamin E in the formula protects skin from damaging free radicals. (Sephora $31)
This mineral-based, water-resistant primer—with SPF 15!—neutralizes and balances skin to minimize shine. The satin finish minimizes the appearance of pores and leaves makeup feeling fresh, and decidedly non-slippery, all day. (Sephora $52)
This primer is scientifically formulated—whatever that means—to achieve the appearance of smooth, poreless skin even without makeup. Vitamins A & C, mulberry extract, and an impressive amount of retinol to conceal pores and leave skin firm and hydrated. (Too Faced Cosmetics, $30)
This primer wants to replace traditional foundation, primer, color corrector, and powder to enhance the appearance of your skin in one fell swoop. On top of keeping your makeup on all day, it also works to improve skin tone, help maintain hydration, and reduce the appearance of redness, discoloration, pores, fine lines, and shine. A multitasker for the ages. (Perfekt Beauty $48)
This formula is water-based, so it has a super lightweight feel that really lets skin breathe. Pomegranate extract is an antioxidant powerhouse that helps tighten pores while willow bark extract balances skin, witch hazel mattifies and keeps impurities out, and rice starch absorbs excess surface oil and softens skin. (Korres $33)
Ever-matte, indeed: This one controls oil and keeps skin mattified and pores minimized for up to 12 hours. Think of it as a "liquid blotting paper" to keep skin matte and shine-free all day long, sans silicone, oil, alcohol, or fragrance. (BECCA $36)
Originally posted on StyleCaster.com
There's nothing better than a day at the spa with your girls, but booking a spa can be hard on your wallet. Make it super easy (and less expensive) by creating the ultimate spa day for your BFFs right in the comfort of your own home.
And what's a spa day without an adult beverage, right? Mimosas are perfect for any time of the day. Make a batch to serve, and try swapping your regular OJ with a low-acid orange juice for a spa-worthy cocktail that goes down a little more smoothly.
Gather your favorite products, call your best girls, and enjoy a day designed for relaxing.
This post was sponsored by Simply Beverages.
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It seems like just yesterday we were sipping lemonade by the pool, but before we know it we’ll be celebrating Thanksgiving and then be in the middle of winter. So it’s no surprise if all you want to do is bundle up.
Fortunately you can stay casual, comfortable and fashionable by checking out what these stores have to offer. Not only can you save money and switch things up with your daily casual attire, these companies are also leaving a positive impact on the environment.
American Eagle
Known for their casual and trendy styles, American Eagle provides plenty of options from basic t-shirts and jeans of all styles to unique dresses and accessories. Striving to inspire their customers, the company has focused on creating an environmentally conscious business setting. Employees have cut back on plastic water bottle use, recycled over 130,000 old denim items (which helped insulate 265 Habitat for Humanity homes) and partnered with I:Collect to create a zero-waste textile recycling initiative.
You can learn more about American Eagle’s environmental impacts and other initiatives by visiting their Coupons for Good page, or donate 2.5 percent to your favorite environmental cause when using Goodshop AE coupons.
Guess
If you’re looking to step up your basic denim game or want to inject a little European flair into your wardrobe, Guess sells bold clothing for fashion-forward men and women. The company has made an even bolder move by addressing sustainability issues, such as water conservation, carbon emissions and recycling, among other initiatives. The company is testing and conserving water resources at key suppliers to reduce water pollution, implemented environmentally minded programs at headquarters and retail stores and partnered with Cotton Incorporated’s Blue Jeans Go Green denim recycling campaign.
Find out more about Guess’ social responsibility by checking out the Facebook Coupons for Good campaign. You can also donate 2 percent to a nonprofit of your choice and save money on some new jeans.
Rue21
Rue21 is a top supplier of casual apparel and accessories for young men and women, and you can find everything and anything you’ll need (or want) for fall and winter weather. In addition to saving on their clearance items, you save even more money using these Goodshop deals while donating 2.5 percent of what you spend to your favorite cause.
As well as partnering with charitable organizations, the company has introduced sustainability initiatives such as energy consumption reduction, recycling and overall reducing environmental impact at their retail stores and company headquarters. The Rue21 Coupons for Good page has more information about the company’s goals and programs.
Vans
Of course I couldn’t forget comfortable footwear. Vans sells comfortable sneakers, boots, sandals and more, in addition to clothing and backpacks. You can browse one of their many collections or go for a truly unique look and design your own pair of kicks.
The company’s roots are in sports that rely on a healthy environment, so their mission to protect the planet and reduce their ecological footprint is divided into three initiatives: Green Sole Operations, Green Sole Product and Street Sole. They strive to make operations energy efficient, create environmentally friendly products and give back to their communities and charities. You can learn more about these goals at Vans Coupons for Good Facebook and when you shop using these coupons and deals to save money on your next pair of shoes.
Rachel Sacks is a writer for GoodShop.
There was a moment there where matte lipstick could have just been a passing fad—but not so! Shine-free formulas have since been solidified as a true stalwart of the makeup world. But like all things, even the best matte lipsticks have their downsides, and there’s one that immediately comes to mind: a rough, chalky feeling and emphasized dry patches were, until recently, the hallmarks of any matte formula.
More: 5 Tricks to Make Matte Lipstick Easy to Wear
But trust now that those days are over, and matte formulas can now be just as moisturizing as their glossy counterparts. These 7 choices, from the higher-end options to the best drugstore matte lipsticks around, have all the intensely pigmented, satiny-finish payoff of their predecessors, with none of the struggle.
More: Yes, Lip Balm Is Making Your Chapped Lips Worse—Here’s Why
This formula truly lives up to its name, and because it's so moisturizing, the color manages to stick around for a long time without flaking off. Not to mention the fact that it feels like a balm going on—what could be better? (Elizabeth Arden $25)
This classic blood-red matte shade has long been heralded as a universally flattering tube of magic—which, considering it's under $20, is pretty remarkable. It's not for the faint of heart, but it will get you attention. (Nordstrom $17)
Aside from the fact that the chubby, crayon-like packaging is pretty darling, these long-lasting lipsticks, which are allegedly kiss-proof, have smooth, long-lasting pigment that feels like you're wearing a cream formula. (Marc Jacob $28)
Good luck hunting these down in your local drugstore, because it's been a couple years since their release and somehow they're still always sold out. If that isn't a testament to their greatness, wait until you get them on your lips. The bold color, velvety texture, and impulse-buy price are downright unbeatable. (Drugstore.com $6)
These pencils are exactly what they sound like: soft, supremely velvety, suede-like pigment that goes on and stays on. It doesn't get much more matte than this. (NARS Cosmetics $26)
A cut above your run-of-the-mill drugstore brand, these lipsticks are very high quality for a very, very low price, not to mention the excellent shade range (45 of 'em, for what it's worth). You'll never want for anything else. (NYX Cosmetics, $6)
Everything Kate Moss touches turns to gold, so it's only natural that her collaborative lip color collection with this Brit favorite drugstore brand is fantastic. With a well-rounded offering of nudes, pinks, and reds, these mattes look and feel great. (Drugstore.com, $6)
Originally posted on StyleCaster.com
If you’re petite, your height can feel like a serious impediment to your style. (You’re probably BFFs with your tailor, no?) Until science comes up with a way for short folks to add a few extra inches, however, your best bet is to rely on a few clever fashion tips and tricks to fake those extra inches. Below, we outline how to look taller using the fashion you’ve got in your closet.
Read on, and be sure to let us know in the comments your tips for looking taller!
Fitted jeans with a distinct flare at the bottom create the illusion of a longer leg— especially when the hem hits the top of your shoes (heels, of course!) The trick here is to keep the fit of the jean super-slim through the leg, and to make sure the waistband hits your natural waist—not any lower. For optimal height, be sure to pair your flares with a waist-length top, or a blouse you can tuck in.
It’s common fashion folklore that small women simply cannot wear floor-grazing skirts and dresses, but luckily that’s been proven entirely false. In fact, a well-cut maxi skirt can actually give you the appearance of looking taller, as evidenced by petite gals like Rachel Bilson, Rachel Zoe, and Mary-Kate Olsen.
Choose solid versions that skim the length of your body, which will create a long vertical line (forego anything with thick pleats or too many layers.) Be sure to keep your top fitted—a tucked-in T-shirt and a cropped leather jacket, for example—so as to not drown in fabric. Also, make sure the skirt’s hemline is as long as you can go without tripping, and add a pair of wedges or heels underneath.
Here’s small trick that can change the way you shoe shop: Shoes that have a low-cut vamp instantely elongate your leg (and make them look slimmer, as well) when you’re wearing skirts, shorts, and dresses.
What’s a vamp? It’s the portion of a show that cuts across your foot at the front. So, a low vamp cuts across the base of the toes, while high vamp can come up the foot and possibly up to the ankle. If you’re able to find a pair that matches your skintone, like the image above, that’s even better to give the illusion of mile-long legs.
When you’re petite, it’s just a fact that—when it comes to skirts and dresses—you should either go super-long, or super-short (translation: avoid calf-length and knee-lengths). Mini-skirts show more skin, which creates the illusion of a longer leg. Here, petite It-girl Miroslava Duma pairs her mini-skirt with a matching top (see tip #6!) and sky-high platforms.
While ankle straps typically aren’t ideal for short ladies (they cut off your leg), they can work with super-short skirts since more skin is being shown. Of course, if you’re wearing a mini, make sure it’s not offensively short—let’s keep it chic, ladies.
Obvious, yes, but piling your hair on top of your head really does gives a taller impression, again creating a more vertical line. Same goes for hair that’s simply voluminous—it adds inches! Time to put away that flatiron, friends.
Using color to enhance the illusion of height is a highly effective strategy, as it helps create a vertical line. While wearing head-to-toe black is the simplest—and eternally chicest—option, saturated hues work well, too (a look that’s incredibly now, as well.) The trick to monochrome dressing: Keep each silhouette crisp and tailored.
High-waist bottoms get a bad rap, possibly thanks to an unfortunate Jessica Simpson style mishap, but when worn correctly, they can trick the eye into thinking you’re taller by elongating your lower body. Whether you choose skirts, shorts or skinny jeans, be sure to make the elevated waist visible by tucking in a tailored blouse, or opting for a slightly cropped top.
More: What to Wear With a Jean Jacket
Since nobody can be expected to wear sky-high heels every day, petite gals should invest in a pair of pointy flats. Why? Because it’s a known fact that shoes with pointed toes lengthen your leg line.
It’s the oldest trick in the book for a reason: Vertical stripes create long lines, thus making you look, well, longer. Bonus: Stripes are one of spring’s biggest trends, so you’ll have absolutely no problem locating some cute striped options.
Keeping your accessories appropriately scaled to your body size is a smart move for petite girls, starting with that oversized bag. Here’s why: Every time you cause the eye to take in width, you reduce the amount of height it takes in. That means smaller cross-body bags, clutches, and small top-handle totes are your best bet.
Long hair drags petite girls down, while shorter hair does the opposite. For the wary: A wavy lob (long bob) is the best option—it shows off your shoulders and your neckline, which makes you look taller (plus, it’s so chic!).
Daring gals should go even shorter: a super-sleek chin-length bob or an elegant gamine-esque pixie.
When it comes to belts, short girls should always opt for a skinny version—it’ll define your natural waist in the most flattering way possible, but won’t cut you in half the way a super-thick belt can, which causes you to look shorter.
More: 101 Fashion Tips and Tricks Every Girl Should Know
When you’re petite, it’s imperative to be sure all your clothes fit properly (a good tailor is key!). Wearing cropped skinny jeans? Make sure they’re not too cropped and that the hem hits the ankle area—small gals should avoid anything resembling capri pants, as they cut your leg awkwardly. With blazers and jackets, always make sure the seams sit perfectly at the bony tops of your shoulders and that the sleeves hit exactly at your wrist.
Tops with plunging V necklines give the illusion of a longer, leaner torso, so keep that in mind when you’re shopping for new tops this season!
Originally posted on StyleCaster.com
When it comes to tough beauty decisions, choosing a single nail polish color for your weekly manicure ranks right up there. Unless you’re paying extra $$$ for nail art, you’ve got to narrow it down to one shade—not exactly the easiest task for anyone who makes a habit of hoarding nail lacquer in their bathroom cabinets.
An easy trick? Ensure you’ll like the color you choose by picking the best nail polish for your skin tone. We asked the experts and rounded up come cute nail colors in shades from nude to blue to guide you on your way to manicure perfection.
Behold the polish shades that will look divine on you! The trick with pale skin tones are finding polish shades that compliment, rather than competing with or washing out, your fair complexion. Here’s a special selection of hues to get you started.
Nude: Nude polishes constantly top the most popular lacquer lists, but picking out the right nude for you is definitely a trial-and-error process. Celebrity manicurist Elle, who works with stars like Blake Lively and Jennifer Lopez, says that those with fair skin tones—think Emma Stone–should try a sheer pinkish nude rather than a beige, as she says that could show up yellow.
Red: Go for a classic color, like the red on the bottom of Christian Louboutin’s iconic shoes. It’s a color that Elle says will flatter everyone, even those with light skin tones. When shopping, though, make sure to hold your red polish up to the light. If you can see through it, you know it’s going to be sheer. Likewise, celebrity manicurist and nail guru Deborah Lippmann suggests going for a clean and cool blue-toned red to really make the most of pale complexions.
Pink: When it comes to pinks, those with light skin tones have a ton of options. Deborah says that fair skin can totally rock both sheer pinks or super bright fuchsias with cool undertones.
Purple: For fair skin, Elle says that pastel lavenders look amazing, but to be wary of how much white the color has in it. Generally, you want to make sure it won’t look more white than lilac when it’s sitting against your skin.
Blue: You may be tempted to go for that cobalt, but Elle says that if you have a light skin tone, navy is a fun option. In fact, it’s another that works especially well if you have a warm undertone. “I would say that this color is almost universal,” she says. “Navy goes so great on anyone’s skin tone, you can’t get it wrong.”
Try Our Suggestions Pictured Above, from top to bottom: Smith & Cult in Kings and Thieves; Nails Inc. in Abbey Road; Essie Neon Nail Color in Coachabella; Christian Louboutin ‘Rouge Louboutin’ Nail Color; Dermelect in A Shore Thing.
Medium skin tones vary—from a bronzy glow to olive—and that changes the colors you wear best depending on your undertone. However, these nail polish picks are universally flattering and gorgeous for your medium-toned complexions.
Nude: While those with very fair skin may lean towards something with a pinkish hint, medium skin can handle something that is a bit more beige. Lippmann describes her favorite beige-nude, “Fashion” (pictured above) as a “full-coverage yellow-based color.”
Red: Orange-reds may reign your lipstick collection, but that shade can work well with your mani, too. Elle explained to us that if you had a skin tone similar to Kim Kardashian, she would choose a red that had a pop of orange to it. Similarly, Lippmann says that she would choose something with gold undertones. “A red with gold undertones will bring out this complexion’s natural glow,” she told us.
Pink: Those with medium skin tones may find peachy-pinks especially flattering, according to Deborah. Look for polishes that are sheer yet pigmented for a juicy, summertime-appropriate look.
Blue: While medium skin tones can do pastel blues, an intense sky blue is an even more flattering choice. Elle says to make sure that any shade you choose has enough pigment in it to really stand out next to your skin, especially if you have warm undertones.
Purple: Purple isn’t just taking over your eyeshadow palette; it turns out that purple polish is super versatile. Elle recommends staying away from pastels with a white base and going towards something with more pigment, like a deep grape shade.
Try Our Suggestions Pictured Above, from top to bottom: Orly Nail Polish in Wild Wisteria; Sally Hansen Miracle Gel in Hydro Electric; Essie Nail Polish in Petal Pink; Revlon ColorStay Gel Envy in Get Lucky; Deborah Lippmann Nail Polish in Fashion.
More: 10 Ways to Get Rid of Discolored Nails
Complement your deep skin tone with nail polishes that offer a punch of high impact color. While every shade of lacquer looks amazing on dark skin, these are our picks for the very best shades.
Pink: Elle says that those with dark skin should stay away from light, baby pinks. “Make sure you’re really wearing pink,” she says, pointing to neons and bright fuchsias.
Purple: Deep skin tones can wear both pastel and dark purples equally well. So how should you narrow it down? Try a universal shade that holds a darker berry-tint to it—Deborah Lippmann suggests trying her shade, “Drunk in Love.”
Blue: Got the blues? It’s time to embrace intense the brightest cobalt shades, which will really stand out next to your skin. If you want to do a baby or heather blue, you need to make sure there isn’t too much of a white undertone to the formula.
Nude: When it comes to picking out the best nude for you, cream and beige nail polishes with sheer, jellylike formulas win again. Elle says that when she’s worked with Kerry Washington, she picked OPI’s “Samoan Sand,” pictured above, for the perfect nude shade.
Red: While almost every red looks amazing with dark skin tones, Lippmann says that deep reds work well with darker skin tones and give “a slight variation.” Think full, rich shades that you might find in gemstones or a glass of amazing red wine.
Try Our Suggestions Pictured Above, from top to bottom: Deborah Lippmann Nail Polish in Single Ladies; OPI Nail Polish in Samoan Sand; Sally Hansen Miracle Gel in Tidal Wave; Deborah Lippmann Nail Polish in Drunk in Love; Nails Inc. Nail Kale in Regents Park.
Originally posted on StyleCaster.com
Most matte lipsticks can be tricky to work with, and tough to find that perfect match. They tend to be drying and rough, leaving you with flakey, patchy lips. So not cute. And, while glossy lips are great and everything, there’s just something about a bold, matte lip that makes a statement that truly can’t be beat. Pair it with anything from a smokey eye to bare lashes and it brings an edge to a look that gloss just can’t compete with. But is it really worth all that dryness and peeling? Well luckily you don’t have to choose anymore! We’ve handpicked our favorite hydrating (and totally affordable!) drugstore matte lipsticks so you can rock that matte look sans flake.
We love rocking flirty, full lashes with a bright lip for a simple, eye-catching look. It’s easy, quick and totally chic when paired with the right lip color. This bright matte pink shade is ultra pigmented and looks stunning on any skin tone (score!). Just don’t forget to prep your lips with lip balm before applying to avoid any unnecessary dryness. (Walgreens $8 )
If you’re anything like us and feel like you need a million different shades of lipstick, these Wet n Wild lipsticks are totally up your alley. Retailing for under $3, these super pigmented, matte lipsticks are a steal! We love this flattering nude paired with a sultry smokey eye for a night out. (drugstore.com $3)
Though not technically a “lipstick,” NXY’s Matte Lip Creams are the newest generation of lip products. Combining the pigment of a lipstick and the hydration of a gloss, these moisturizing lip creams are available in 22 (yep, 22!) different shades. The doe foot applicator makes applying this gorgeous fuchsia color easy for bold, full lips. (nyxcosmetics.com $6 )
More: 5 Tips to Keep Matte Lipstick Looking Fresh
What’s worse than not getting your morning cup of coffee? Drinking that cup of coffee realizing your lipstick is smeared everywhere. Luckily with Milani’s Moisture Matte Lipsticks, you don’t have to worry about that. This budge-proof formula is available in eight stunning shades (we’re obsessed with this orange-y red!) and is infused with grapeseed extract for a moisturizing matte lipstick that’ll last all day. (milanicosmetics.com $6 )
These e.l.f Matte Lip Colors are perfect for on-the-go touch-ups. Packaged as super convenient twist-up pencils, these opaque lip colors can be used as both liners and lipsticks. Rock this edgy burgundy red shade with a brown shimmery eye and smoked-out liner for the ultimate summer to fall look. (eyeslipsface.com $4)
Though less pigmented than the latter, these Sonia Kashuk Velvety Matte Lip Crayons are intensely conditioning and ensure glide-on perfection with every use. The tip is slightly thicker, making it tricky to use as a liner but perfect for filling in lips or even layering over another lip color for added sheen. This coral shade screams summer and would look stunning against sun-kissed skin! (Target $8)
An extension of their wildly popular Color Sensation line, Maybelline’s Creamy Matte Lip Colors have both intense color payoff and unbeatable hydration. Formulated with Beeswax and Sesame Seed Oil, these moisturizing lipsticks will keep your pout kissable throughout the dry summer months! Pair this soft pink shade with shimmery champagne eye makeup for a girly, romantic look. (Walgreens $6)
More: Matte Lipstick: All You Need to Know About the Look
A new addition to L’Oreal’s Colour Riche collection, Le Matte Lipcolour Sticks come in a sleek pen-like package for on-the-go applications. Infused with Rosa Canina Flower Extract and Safflower Seed Oil, these lip colors offer both superior hydration and pigment. Throw this baby pink shade into your purse ASAP for the perfect, wearable daytime pink. (Ulta $6)
The ultimate “my-lips-but-better” shade, L.A. Girl’s Luxury Lip Cream in Forbidden Love can be paired with just about any look. Infused with shea butter, aloe and vitamin E, this matte lip color will leave your lips hydrated and soft while giving you awesome pigment payoff. And don’t worry if natural hues aren’t your thing – this lip color is available in another 23 shades from barely-there nudes to bold wine reds (and even a black for the daring among us)! (L.A. Girl $4)
A hybrid between a lipstick and a matte gloss, these long-wearing lip lacquers are quickly becoming a staple in our makeup bags! Try pairing this wearable plumy-pink shade with some voluminous mascara (or some wispy falsies) and some tinted moisturizer for a simple summer look. (drugstore.com $5 )
Originally posted on StyleCaster.com
If we’ve told you once, we’ve told you a million times—good skin is the foundation for great makeup looks. Honestly though, if the past year was any indication, good skin is pretty much where it’s at, makeup regardless (but we like that too much to give it up, obviously). Not all of us live under the Swiss Alps or near majestic hot springs that naturally impart a regional glow to our faces, but we CAN take measures into our hands and glow-up, as it were. Here are some serious contenders—some old favorites, some fresh out of the lab—in the Glo-lympics (It’s a thing… we just made it a thing).
Boscia’s peel-off masks are like a dream team for pore-tightening and “luminizing.” The white one has sea fern algae extract and Stay-C 50, which reduces melanin production to minimize hyper-pigmentation and maximize collagen production, allowing for bright shiny new skin cells to turn over. The black mask also has vitamin C for brightening and Calcium Montmorillonite Clay, which absorbs excess oil and impurities while exfoliating dead skin cells. (Sephora, $38 - $34)
The Strawberry Fruit Extract in this brightening face cleanser from Indie Lee is the agent that clears pores and naturally exfoliates dead skin to reveal your brightest skin underneath. You can even leave it on your face for 5-10 minutes to use it as an exfoliating mask. Versatility is always appreciated. (Indie Lee, $32)
More: How To Brighten Winter Skin Without Bronzer
Mario Badescu is the facial king in NYC, with a line of popular and affordable skincare products to boot. This vitamin C serum is the pretty much the ONE thing that is made exclusively for brightening—vitamin C is a fruit acid that has tons of antioxidants to protect skin from free radicals (which age your skin, BTW). This serum has 7.5% of it, which doesn’t seem like a lot but consider that this is acid here. It also has hyaluronic acid for hydrating and collagen for that youthful plump. (Mario Badescu, $45)
Nude’s brightening fizzy powder wash is another vitamin C soldier, with scorbic acid, lemon and lime extracts, and Brazilian acerola fruit—all mega-brighteners. The scrubby bits are vanilla orchid and rose hip seeds crushed up. This powder becomes effervescent with water and feels like an energizing fizzy treat for your face in the morning.(NUDE Skincare, $42)
Brightening pads are like the express way to exfoliate your skin. With Fruit Acid and Rice Bran Extract, a swipe-session with one of these pads is like a mini Glycolic peel, revealing new bright baby skin. This is one of those thing you ought to use at night since your skin will be extra sensitive/exposed after use. (Origins, $40)
More: Try An At-home Brightening Pad
This daytime moisturizer is a new addition to Shiseido’s White Lucent line (which is amazing for tone-evening/brightening needs, FYI), targeting dark spots and evens them out, as well as minimizing signs of sun damage all dang day. This lightweight moisturizer has SPF and micro-flecks of shimmer to boot, giving your face a literal glow as it’s doing its thing. (Shiseido, $57)
Sheet masks are a terrific way to get skincare ingredients to sink into your skin, wasting no drop of what can sometimes be an expensive treatment. This would be one of those treatments. Sulwhasoo Snowise EX Brightening Masks contain the brand’s trademarked Snowise Tri-White Complex as well as Korean herbs—each mask is fermented for two weeks in white ginseng to bring out its most potent brightening powers. The mask itself is made from compressed plant pulp and is much more delicate that your run-of-the-mill sheet mask. All of this stuff boosts circulation in your skin, imparts instant brightening appearance, and minimizes age spots. (Sulwhasoo, $130 for box of 10)
Tata Harper is KNOWN for her face oils which primarily synthesize natural plant-derived ingredients into their most effective skin-beneficial forms. The Beautifying Face Oil uses brown algae extract to boost radiance in the skin. Camellia flower extract is a superb moisturizer with plenty of essential fatty acids to give your skin that plump glow. Massaged into your face every night, you’ll be glowing in no time. (Tata Harper, $48)
More: Get Glowing Skin in 10 Easy Steps
Originally posted on StyleCaster.com
The red lip has been a classic since your grandma was still a Ms. It was a rite of passage for you and not for nothing, a red lip pulls your face together even when you’re not wearing any other makeup. That said, while we throw no shade onto the classic red lip, some days you just feel a bit darker, more mysterious, a bit more adventurous than what your good ol’ red lip can do. It’s a concept you probably wouldn’t realize until you went a little deeper with the hue. A burgundy lipstick is like the evil twin to the red lipstick. It’s just as bold as a red lip but sends a rather different message— one that suggests a bit of mystery and the type of confidence that doesn’t beg for approval. We like to wear our burgundy lipstick on those days when our shades are on, hair is looking perfectly undone, and we’d rather our lips do the talking. Here’s a handful of our favorite burgundy shades.
One underrated drugstore brand, Black Radiance, has a great offering of highly pigmented lip colors, including Eldorado Red, which is the perfect creamy deep burgundy shade. It initially applies like a deep stain and you can build from there. (Drugstore.com $2)
More: How to Rock Plum Lipstick Anywhere
MAC has many a cult lipstick shade, Diva, being on the cusp (close runner-up to Russian Red or Ruby Woo) of cult but perhaps a bit too deep for mass appeal. MAC’s classic matte formula looks good with a deeper red anyhow. (MAC cosmetics $16)
Any true goth remembers the Manic Panic days of multi-colored hair and paled-out complexions. Lo and behold, they offer some really great makeup, too—especially lipsticks which come in a variety of every outlandish shade you can think of. Made to wear true and bright, the formula delivers opaque color and sticks to your lips. Black Rose is marked as a “Goth Fave” on their site, so you can throw all the shade you want. (Manicpanic.com $16)
We were really impressed with Maybelline’s Matte Lipstick formulas—such great vibrant color that felt lightweight and velvety on the lips. Divine Wine was definitely a winner with us, since it delivers prestige color on a drugstore budget. (Drugstore.com $6)
NARS Audacious lipsticks are something of a gem among the lipstick-obsessed. If you should get any color though, let it be this delightfully dark Bette. From first swipe, you’ll notice how well the color sticks to your lips and the creamy matte formula feels like air. (Sephora $32)
NYX knows what you want when it comes to lip color, it seems. They offer endless colors in nearly all finishes. The Simply Vamp collection, small as it is, is your go-to for vampy dark deep lipsticks, and Covet is the stuff of burgundy dreams.
(Where to Buy: NYX Simply Vamp Lip Cream in Covet, $6.50 at NYXcosmetics.com)
Alchemy does only one thing—lipstick— and they do it well. Think creamy mattes that wear so comfortably and feel like butter while also looking extra crisp and even. Their burgundy shade, 11221, is named after one Bushwick neighborhood where they’re based. (Alchemy Cosmetics $18)
More: Instagram Insta-Glam: Vampy Lip Colors
Other than fabulous party dresses, Topshop also offers the makeup to go with it. Their lipstick in Wicked is just the right depth of red to make it burgundy like a red velvet cake or those fancy maroon velvety theater curtains. (Topshop $12)
Originally posted on StyleCaster.com
A smart approach to materialism dictates that there are some things worth splurging on and others that may not be worth the extra few dollars. Anti-aging moisturizers packed to the gills with retinoids and peptides and SPF 30 and Elizabeth Báthory’s secret blend? Worth it. Liquid eyeliner, mascara, and other bacteria-laden items it’s wise to replace every few months? Not so much. The best drugstore liquid eyeliner is a better bet.
More: A Guide to Designer Beauty Brands—and Which Products Are Really Worth the Splurge
If you’re the kind of person who’s made a signature look out of a cat eye or just prefers to face the day with a liiiittle bit of definition around the eyes—makes you look more alive!—then chances are a good liquid eyeliner is your mainstay. And if you are the daily type, then you’ve more than likely noticed just how quickly you seem to go through the liquid stuff. Either you run out or it runs out of steam; it’s the circle of life.
Spare yourself the drama, except for where the eye makeup is concerned, and “invest” in one of these 5 hand-to-God tried-and-true liquid eyeliners, all of which can be purchased for under $15 anywhere drugstore eyeliners are found. That’s practically an invitation to buy them in bulk.
More: The Secret to Getting a Perfect Cat Eye Every Single Time
This water-resistant formula, with its potted "inkwell" packaging and precise tapered tip, is a classic crowd-pleaser that's just as good now as it was when it was the first eyeliner you'd ever used. Perfect for eye-lining needs both big and small, the flexible tip makes easy work of creating a thick cat eye or the thinnest eye-hugging tightline known to man. Virtually mistake-proof, hypoallergenic, and steadfast for up to 16 hours. (Walgreens $5)
There's no use in labeling something "intense" when it just objectively isn't—so with that said, I'm fond of this liner on principle just because it hasn't lied. Beyond that, it delivers the kind of opaque, intensely black lines that anyone in their right mind knows is exactly what you want out of a liquid liner. It's totally smudge-proof and water-resistant—go on, try it—and suitable for sensitive eyes/people. (Walgreens, $8)
Now here is the gold standard, the one inky, easy to apply, legitimately long-wearing formula that has elevated itself from drugstore-thrill status to nominee for G.O.A.T. The flexible felt tip makes for a smooth application process with no tugging, perfect for the smooth stroke necessary for creating a precise line. It's impossible to screw up, and also impossible to get off without an oily makeup remover. Both good things. (Drugstore.com, $6)
If any eyeliner could ever be considered coddling, this one would be it. The ergonomic shape provides a "grip zone" that fits perfectly into the hand for a steady hold that ensures crisp, precise lines and the easiest application process ever. Once on, it doesn't smear, doesn't flake, doesn't fade—in short, it just doesn't play around. Respectable.
(Target$15)
$3 could buy you one overpriced latte with a cat's face made out of foam or this superlative, wildly affordable liquid liner, which goes on perfectly black, dries fast, lasts forever, doesn't smudge, and generally satisfies all around. Fire up your Mr. Coffee instead. (Walgreens $3)
Originally posted on StyleCaster.com
After the platinum hair trend started to simmer down a touch, everyone got a bit bored with blonde. Hard to believe for some, but once you’ve gone to one extreme, where else is there to go? Luckily, once you’re the blondest blond, you can color your hair any color and it’ll be as vibrant as you want it to be. For those over blonde but not wanting unicorn hair just yet, silver is the obvious choice. It’s cool and uniquely off-beat but easy to dress around and doesn’t really pull your whole style in one direction or another.
More: The Official Guide to Finding the Best Hair Color for Your Skin Tone
Here’s the thing though. Silver, if you can believe it or not, is actually more difficult to maintain than blonde. With blonde you have to worry about avoiding brassiness (if you’re a cool-toned platinum) but with silver, any hint of brassiness ruins the whole look. A colorist will let you know that this look isn’t for the lazy—silver and light gray hair is one of the most difficult colors to achieve because there’s no silver or gray hair dye, it needs to be mixed using other colors to create the shade you desire. Because it can be a bit difficult to translate to your colorist in words your exact desired shade of silver, definitely bring reference photos. And definitely go to a hair colorist who has done platinum and gray or silver hair colors before. This is not for beginners.
You may walk out of the salon with a slight blue or maybe lavender tinge—don’t worry, those shades will fade into a true gray/silver. It’s just difficult to anticipate how this color will settle into itself after a couple washes.
More: Celebs Are Going Gray (and Violet) Like Crazy
As for maintenance, to keep your silver color “fading” in the direction you want, it will take some product manipulation. It’s a bit tricky because it’s not as simple as just using purple toning shampoo and calling it a day. Silver is so white it picks up what you put on it, so if you use purple shampoo and conditioner every time you wash your hair, your hair will likely turn lavender. There are other toning haircare options out there. Aveda makes a line called Blue Malva that is made specifically for silvery blondes and people with gray hair, to ward off brassiness (the conditioner is slightly color-depositing so don’t leave it on too long or else you’ll end up with blue hair). Used every once in a while, it will keep your silver from going a weird beige color. It might be best to alternate using a sulfate-free moisturizing shampoo and conditioner with a purple/blue toning shampoo and conditioner for a good balance.
More: Is Gray The New Black?
Nothing will do as good of a job toning as going back to your salon for a quick toning session. It will likely be less expensive than your initial color process. If you’re confident with home hair color, you can tone your hair yourself using a white/platinum toner and a low volume developer. Both can be purchased at a beauty supply shop.
Originally posted on StyleCaster.com
Not everyone is made of money, so spending hundreds of dollars on professional makeup brushes isn’t always an option, no matter how much we’d like for it to be. But choosing to spend your disposable income on things like food and a new A/C unit instead doesn’t mean you have to settle for lower quality—these days, the best cheap makeup brushes on the market manage to give their exponentially pricier counterparts a real run for their money.
More: 25 Epic Drugstore Products to Never, Ever Upgrade
With more and more companies catering to the need for makeup brushes that provide good performance at even better prices, investing in a new collection without handing over your firstborn is now as easy as heading to a drugstore. Exhibit A: these five on-point brands, which offer plenty of choices to stock up on without breaking the bank.
More: On Makeup Brushes, and How I Learned to Love Them
Real Techniques was dreamed up by two popular YouTube beauty vloggers, who took their firsthand knowledge of what the average makeup user needs in a brush—affordability, quality, and style—and made it a reality. The entire line of brushes is made from synthetic bristles, and is cruelty-free, too.
Countless social media-savvy beauty gurus can't get enough of Morphe Brushes, thanks to the brand's incredible quality and astonishingly low prices. You can even get your brushes personalized with your name or your company's name, if that's something you're into.
Sigma has tons of affordable brushes with exceptional quality, but that's not all: They also offer pricier options so that everyone from the makeup brush virgin to skilled professional can count on the brand to come correct. The comprehensive brush sets are a great deal, too.
Sonia Kashuk's brushes have an honorable reputation for being the very best option at the price point. They come in a variety of brushes from synthetic to natural and come in tons of different shapes, sizes, and colors, so get thyself to a Target ASAP.
EcoTools supplies pretty much anything you'd need to get started applying your makeup like a pro, and the incredibly soft bristles, sleek bamboo handles, and recycled aluminum ferrules don't hurt, either. The 100-percent cruelty-free and eco-friendly ethos will make you feel good about putting your money where your mouth is.
Originally posted on StyleCaster.com
Unless you’re one of the lucky few on this earth to have been born with #flawless skin, you’ve more likely than not struggled with skin imperfections at some point or another. Dark spots in particular are a real pain for anyone who has to deal with them — so hard to remove once they’re there!
Some cases are severe enough to need the help of a dermatologist, but some can be helped at home, provided you’re armed with the best dark spot correctors around. But if you’re wondering why you have dark spots in the first place, start here:
Genes
Sometimes the luck of the draw may not actually be so lucky—skin can just have uneven pigment naturally. Often spots can fade away with time, but some stay unless they’re treated.
More: The Foods That Help Protect You Against the Sun
Sun Damage
Easily prevented by using a strong enough SPF (all year long, not just in the summer) but if you already have dark spots from sun damage, there is still hope.
Acne Scars
As much as you may want to end a pimple‘s life immediately, it’s best not to touch it. Popping zits can lead to scarring and dark spots that are a significantly bigger pain in the ass than the original pimple. Fair warning.
More: 10 Things No One Ever Tells You About Dark Spots
Up ahead, we’ve rounded up the best dark spot correctors at every price range, to finally shed some light on those dark problems.
(Shiseido, $175)
(Kiehl's, $50)
(Clinique, $50)
(Proactiv+ Advanced Dark Spot Correcting Serum, $35)
(Sephora, $150)
(Walmart, $22)
(Target, $15)
(Fresh, $67)
(Murad, $60)
(Burt's Bees, $20)
Originally posted on StyleCaster.com
Blythe Hill never set out to create a movement. As the Dressember founder recalls, back in 2009, it was just a love of puns and a desire to bring a little creativity into her life that led her to wear dresses during the last month of the year. For the first four years, it was just that — a styling challenge and a laugh among friends.
It wasn’t until a considerable number of girlfriends signed on that Hill realized she could use her fashion choices to raise money. Like Movember, a movement that encourages men not to shave during the month of November to raise money for charity, Dressember participants ask for donations from friends and family in exchange for wearing the titular garment all month long.
In 2013, she took the plunge, registering Dressember as a nonprofit and aligning the project with International Justice Mission, the world’s largest anti-slavery organization. To hear Hill tell it, it was an obvious partnership. “I’ve been passionate about human trafficking, especially sex trafficking, for a number of years,” the former photographer/accounts manager explains. “But I also felt like I was hitting a wall because I didn’t feel like I could reroute my whole career. It felt like there was nothing I could do unless I moved to India and became a social worker.”
Their goal with the inaugural year was to raise $25,000, which was exceeded in three days. Thanks to the event’s popularity and a steadily growing internet presence, the number of donations and participants grows yearly. (Hill speaks warmly of talking to self-organized Dressember teams across the United States.) In 2015, dress-clad women across the world raised $918,000 on behalf of Dressember. Hill estimates that over 10,000 people will participate this year, pulling in upwards of $1.5 million — a staggering number by any measure.
Ahead of what promises to be a very busy season, we caught up with Hill to discuss courage, change and — of course — what she’ll be wearing starting Dec. 1.
Blythe Hill: I’ve met a handful of International Justice Mission’s clients. One of my first field office visits was to IJM’s Guatemala office. There was a girl there who was 13 who had a 2-month-old baby. That was heartbreaking. They actually didn’t know the paternity of the child. She had been raped by her father, her grandfather and her uncle within the same week. Horrific abuse. I think of girls like that. It’s so daunting and it’s so dark.
But the whole reason I met her was because they had a pinning ceremony where they pin these “I am a hero” pins on children who have testified in court. You’d think that the room would be filled with a sad, somber tone. But it was the complete opposite. There was so much hope and light. I just looked at these kids and they were triumphant. Beaming. To be honored in that way — it was amazing. It was a good reminder that yes, this is a dark situation, but the work that they’re doing changes their story. It doesn’t stop at the abuse. There can be justice and healing and their stories can continue in a really positive direction.
BH: Women will write in stories about how the act of putting on a dress every day is a physical reminder. It’s like putting on a uniform of advocacy. The routine of it, just to be thinking about what it’s all for and the dignity of all women. But also for yourself. I feel like there’s this thread of personal freedom and dignity that women step into. A lot of it is so abstract that I don’t understand, but it’s so powerful for so many women. We get emails from people saying, “I don’t totally understand it, but because of Dressember, I’ll never be the same again.” It’s super-beautiful. It’s a community of women who have different experiences with it, but as a whole, make so much of an impact together. It’s been amazing that something I’ve created out of my own passion has become so many things to different people. So many good things. A community and an opportunity for other women to advocate who were maybe feeling powerless in the same way that I was.
BH: The last few years I’ve worn the same dress every day just to show that it can be done. You don’t need to go buy a bunch of dresses! Last year was the first year that we had an official Dressember dress in partnership with another organization that offers employment to women rescued out of sex trafficking in Nepal. Last year, I had the same dress in two colors. This year we have three different styles in two colors each. I feel like I’ll have a field day this year with the different options!
BH: I would go back to 2012 and say, “You need to just go for this, it will be great.” It was just a personal style challenge for four years. I really could have done it a year earlier. But I was scared. Just being OK to fail. That was something I needed to grow past. Fear of failure.
