Code Red 08/17/2010
 
Q. I can't find and red lipstick that suits me!

Ahh the search for the perfect red. There's plenty of information out there on the steps, but here's what I would recommend:

1) First decide what you need your lipstick to do and what look you want. Super long lasting? Matt? Shiny? Do you want a strong classic red to invoke the decade of movie glamour or a light touch of red? Wearing red lipstick when you're used to more sober colours is a big change so don't expect to find one that looks natural.

2) What type of red do you want? The spectrum ranges from blue reds (will help lighten your teeth) to more Orangey reds (fabulously bright and beautiful for those who get away with glowing colours).

3) Once you've thought about it (and If you still don't know), then the only way is to try them all. Get to a beauty counter on a quiet day, And then go from counter to counter in the search. Talk to the brand representatives about your search and explain what you're after. They should be more then happy to let you try them. Don't buy however. If you find one you like, get the name marked down and leave the store so you can see how it looks in daylight. Go and browse a clothes shop and see how it looks in different lights. If after an hour you like it, then go and buy it (preferably from the assistant that helped you).

Pay attention to what the beautician does. If she's used primer/lipliner,lip brush etc, that will effect the final look.

 

If you can't find any that suit you (and you've tried the following counters: MAC, Chanel, Dior, YSL, Benefit) then you may have to try some counters where you will have to buy without trying.

For a young, subtle, easy to wear red.

Try Benefit & Myface. Slip in on with no Primer or Liner and just enjoy the summery burst of colour.

For a strong 40's Starlet Red.

Try MAC, Chanel & Besame. Use Primer, Lip liner (both before & after the lipstick). Powder and reapply.

For a Futuristic red

then try the new Rimmel Vinyl's & Dior. Slip on some Gloss in a darker colour in the centre of the lip.

My favourite one at the moment is a Revlon ColorStay Ultimate Liquid Lipstick in Top Tomato

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Kiss & Make up 08/17/2010
 
Foundations

Q. Do you use foundation? And what one?

A: I'm a huge believer in foundations - both with underwear & make-up. Make up wise I've tried a fair few over the years, and below is a brief look at my favourites and the almost rans.*

 

La Praire. Caviar foundation. 4.5 Pasties

I love this one, it is by far and away my favourite. Despite being scarily expensive, I would happily pay the money again (if my bank account would let me). It gives the skin that privileged glow that suggests you've spent your life having regular facials & expensive creams. It provides cover without looking heavy and comes in a large number of shades that help those with typical 'in-between shades' find the perfect one. The only reason it doesn't get Full marks is that the beautifully presented pot (complete with a concealer brush + hidden concealer pot) just isn't that hygienic after a year of use (and mine comfortably lasted that long).

Myface Foundation 4 Pasties

It's no surprise that myface foundation is already a cult product with beauty editors. The entire brand is built around the idea of being affordable and foolproof. The foundation is no exception. While being in pared down packaging, the foundation out performs many expensive brands I've tried. Good coverage, again without being heavy, and while there aren't a rainbow of shades to pick from, the foundation blends exceedingly well.

L-oreal True Match Roll'on foundation

I confess to buying this in a 'forgot my make up' emergency. I wasn't expecting to love this and I saw the roller as a gimmick. While I still dislike the roller (I prefer brushes) I was very impressed by the foundation. Perfect for when you need a 'foundation finish' as opposed to the 'naturally flawless). It's much heavier then the other two, but still avoids looking caked on. Only piece of advice? Make sure you wash the sponge on a regular basis - I have seen some that look disgusting after the owner hasn't washed them but has used them for the last month…

It's not you..it's me….

Illamasqua

I love the brand. I love the background, the story, the colours and the eyelashes. But…the foundation just doesn't feel special. I don't hate it. It does the job perfectly adequately, in a range of shades and lasts a decent amount of time throughout the day. I use it (I hate throwing away nearly full tubes), but can't see myself buying another one.

I admit to being more disappointed then I would be with another brand. Illamasquais one of my favourite counters when I'm in London to visit, And I still want to try a truckload of their other goodies…but for now I'll stick to using their eyelashes, while flirting with the idea of trying the highlighter.

 

MAC

Again, I was expecting to love this - who doesn't adore MAC? Tested and trusted by the entire entertainment industry worldwide. Yet the foundation just seemed to be missing a certain something. I don't mind paying out more for MAC's eyeshadows (they are more finely milled so last longer and have a brighter colour), but the foundation…meh...

 



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