FOTD: The Work Appropriate Black Smoky Eye

NOTE TO SELF:  Never attempt to apply a black eyeshadow before going to work.  Or, ensure you double check the eyeshadow you've grabbed before you apply it.

Yes, I'm sure you can figure out exactly what happened here.  I was applying my makeup, like I always do, and as I was applying my eyeshadow, I realized I had selected a color that could literally pass for black.  As you all know, once a color like that is ON your eye lid, it's very very very difficult to remove.  So, after rubbing my lids with a kleenex for a very long time (alright, slight exaggeration...more like 5 minutes) AND applying a shimmery shadow on top, I think I found the perfect smoky eye mix:

Face:

Smashbox Photofinish Color Correcting Primer (Green)

Dior Diorskin Forever Extreme Wear Flawless Makeup 010

Youngblood Fair Ultimate Concealer 

Clinique Perfectly Real Compact Makeup in 102

Youngblood Brow Artiste in Dark (Eyebrows)

Cheeks:

Gosh Cosmetics Giant Sun Powder

E.L.F. Natural Radiance Blusher in Shy

Eyes:

E.L.F. Elements Essential Custom Eye Shadow in Dusk

Urban Decay Stardust Eyeshadow in Diamond Dog (bronze sparkle)

Youngblood Eye Liner Pencil in Blackest Black

Benefit BADgal Lash Mascara in Black

Lips:

Victoria's Secret Beauty Rush Lip Gloss in Kiwiberry

I have to say, once applied I really do enjoy the look.  All in all I am pleasantly surprised.

XO

Beautiful Nudes

I am completely taken by nudes right now. No, I'm not talking about art since I, unfortunately, know nothing about it, but am, of course, talking about nude lips, eyes, and shoes.

I remember so long ago wearing nude lipstick before I knew how to use blush or concealer. I think I wore nude then because it was the only color my mom would let me wear to school and, back then, browns and beiges were very popular. Nude lip color, though, has come back with a bang because of the smoky eye. If you're going heavy on eye make-up it's always best to match it with a nude lip as all the focus is meant to be on the eyes.

Yesterday I was on a rampage trying to find the perfect pair of nude heels to wear to a birthday dinner. Get this, I was in the mall for 35 minutes and checked out all the shoe stores and managed to have pairs on hold at each shop. Lucky me that the last place I went to had the pair I'd been looking for. I snatched them up right away. (Photo on Left...)

Getting back to lip color though, here's a list of my favorite nude lipsticks and glosses right now.

1. NARS Belle Du Jour. This color is absolutely perfect with minimal or heavy make-up. Kudos to Kim Kardashian for making this such a popular color.

2. Too Faced Glamour Gloss in Pillow Talk. This brand is neat since their glosses are also enhanced with a lip plumping serum. Once on, this nude gloss tingles and creates a perfect pout.

3. Wet 'n' Wild Silk Finish 545A in Blushing Balli. I adore this color. It's a subtle pink shimmery gloss that doesn't really change the color of my lips but tends to go with everything. Oh, and it only cost me $.67

4. NARS Cruising. Again, another amazing color by NARS. Perfectly nude and actually lasts a long time on your lips. (Model above is wearing this color.)

5. MAC Creme d'Nude. Perfect matte nude color to pair with smoky eyes.

Tell me your go to nude lip colors, ladies! I'm always wanting to expand on this list....