CREAM OF THE CROP

There has been no excuse as to why I've not posted anything for a while. Honestly, thought no one would notice! However, truth be told, last week I was at a drinks party when someone commented on how much they enjoyed reading my snippets.Then, this weekend at a wedding, someone said they had recommended my blog to girls around their office and they're waiting for the next update... Very flattering and a reason to get back on it.
The pressure's on to share some really good tips and there's no better place to be discussing beauty tips than in the offices of Glamour Magazine. Last week I was called in to do the Editor, Jo Elvins make up, for a new show she is taking part in and I also had a good catch up with all the beauty team. We all get sent copious amounts of products to test and although each person differs with their favourite brand etc... there are some classic cult products that are renowned amongst beauty experts as a MUST for the make-up bag. So, when a friend recently called me for a list of what to buy for a new make-up kit here is what I suggested....


Foundation - Mac Face and Body - I have mentioned this before - Good for a dewy finish and the right amount of coverage. You will need a loose powder to dust down the t zone so you don't look too shiny http://www.maccosmetics.com/product/shaded/158/393/Products/Face/Foundation/Face-And-Body-Foundation/index.tmpl
Concealer - Origins Quick Hide concealer - This is a fairly new one. Lots of make up artists use Laura Mercier secret camouflage or Estee lauder Doublewear concealer, but I have taken to using origins regularly on shoots as it is really long lasting and oil free. http://www.origins.co.uk/product/4825/13249/Makeup/Category/Foundations-Concealer/Quick-Hide/Long-Wearing-Concealer/index.tmpl

Undereye illuminating pen - YSL touche eclat is a good product but I prefer the Dior Skinflash. Often I see my friends using these pens as concealers. They work differently to concealers. They reflect the light and therefore eliminate shadows so they are really only appropriate for under the eyes.
For a cheaper version try L'oreal touche magique pens. They have a balance of light concealer and illuminating product. Really great alternative to the very expensive designer brands.
 http://www.boots.com/en/LOreal-Paris-True-Match-Touche-Magique-Concealer_984446/

Bronzer -  Nars Laguna - Right amount of shimmer - http://www.narscosmetics.co.uk/nars-laguna?gclid=COCN9KKd2LACFUUhtAodQnBn3A
Highlighter - BECCA pearl shimmering skin perfector - http://www.beccacosmetics.com/uk/store/complexion/tinted-moisturisers/shimmering-skin-perfector/
Blusher - Nars Orgasm - http://www.narscosmetics.co.uk/the-latest/orgasm-collection/blush.html
Eye Liner - MacTeddy - http://www.maccosmetics.co.uk/ TOPTIP -  If you find your eyeliner smudges really easily then then make sure you use some powder over it. Smudge the liner with your finger and brush and then pat a light powder over it. You can also use this all over the eye, using some powder over it to stop it smudging....

Powder - Mac Prep and Prime -http://www.maccosmetics.co.uk/  A very fine translucent powder that will keep you make up in place.

With this ever so reliable English Summer, I have not a hint of a tan so am daily applying these truly reliable make-up products above!!!