Clinique

{things i learned} my week through instagram

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1. a champagne bottle full of 'baci' #yesplease #bestpresentever #chocoholic #sweettooth

2. it's a beautiful day for a long walk #sunny #spring #pretty #magnolia #flowers #instadaily

​3. i get a strange sense of accomplishment when i finish an eye make-up palette #sorryimnotsorry #beauty #clinique

4. thai shrimp coconut curry #dinnertonight #homemade #diedandgonetoheaven #food #yum

5. mini pastries #cute #food #italian #dessert #partytime

 

{things i learned} thinking pink

[A vintage-inspired rose centerpiece]

 

[Favorite Clinique sample shades: 'Beauty,' 'Raspberry Glace,' 'Rose Taffy,' & 'Tenderheart']

 

[A delicate gift: French-milled soap hearts from Gianna Rose Atelier]

 

[Pastel seven-layer cookies]

 

[An Easter gift that has since lost its blooms: yellow & pink striped tulips]

 

I never liked the color pink. Okay, I'm lying–I actually hated it. I think resented the hue for all its stereotypical gender connections (I know that's completely ironic for someone who's always loved just about everything else girly). With time I've grown to appreciate all colors and their individual potential. Now of course I can see lots of perfect applications for pink: variations on the shade suit makeup and flowers unbelievably well this time of year and always manage to bring a smile to my face.

What do you think? Everyone has a favorite color–mine's purple for sure–but do you have ones you hate just as much or have you come to accept them like me?

 

 
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{things i learned} makeup staples

 

So many of you in very sweet comments, Tweets, and emails have mentioned how much you like my makeup and hair. I've been experimenting with both for ages so every compliment truly brings a smile to my face. Eventually I'd like to write lots of posts that share beauty tips but I got the idea of selecting some of my absolute favorite makeup products from Toni of January Lace (check out my guest post on her blog yesterday which featured these items plus some of my best fashion finds for spring). It was so hard to pick only five products–believe me, I have many more!

 

What do you think? Could you select just a few of your favorite makeup products–what would be on your list?

 

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[ 100% Natural Lip Gloss in 'Sugar Cookie' - bareMinerals, $15, available here]
 

This lip gloss is incredible– it has the perfect combination of shine and color. A lovely pale pink with just a hint of shimmer, it's my daily go-to because it practically matches anything.  And since it's on my lips I love that it's all-natural with no preservatives or dyes.

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[Superpowder Double Face Makeup in 'Matte Neutral', Clinique - $21, available here]

I've been using this product for ages. Just like the packaging promises, it's a powder and foundation combined in one portable compact. I love that it can be used on top of foundation for a flawless finish but also that it can be worn alone if you just want some quick coverage. Since it's Clinique I don't have to worry about breakouts: it's allergy tested and fragrance free.

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[Regenerist Regenerating Serum, Olay - $25, available here]

I've tried so many moisturizers but this is the only one that leaves my skin soft and smooth all day long. My face feels dewy and hydrated from the second I put it on, making makeup application super easy. Plus, it's never to early to think about skin heath: its formula is rich in amino peptides and B3 concentrations which help maintain a firm, youthful glow.

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[BADgal Lash Mascara in 'Rich Black', Benefit - $19, available here]

It's so hard to find a mascara formula that works. I look for length and volume in a brand and BADgal lash delivers on both counts: my eyelashes are noticeably thicker (people constantly ask me if I'm wearing a false set!) with its soft, long-lasting hold.

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[Fit Me Concealer in 'Light', Maybelline - $7, available here]

​I love that Maybelline's "Fit Me" line has so many color options, making it unbelievably easy to find a shade that actually works. The formula here is pretty amazing too: creamy, long-lasting, and with just the right amount of coverage. Plus for a drug-store brand the packaging is wonderfully sleek and convenient.