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My mom wasn’t a big makeup wearer; she’s still not. So I never got the experience of falling in love with makeup while I watched my mom get ready in the morning. But somehow, I still fell in love with it, early on.
Over the years my makeup style has shifted dramatically, and it’s interesting to think back on. I’ve also noticed, in a lot of my recent posts, I’ve made mentions of “my current preference” when it comes to makeup descriptions. So today we’re going to talk about how some of my makeup preferences have changed and comparing what I like now to what I used to like in the past.
Bold & Playful Eye Makeup –
What urged me to write this post is my growing love for bright and colorful eye shadow — neon specifically. I don’t know if it’s summer or I’m just falling back in love with playing with makeup, but I’ve been reaching for my rainbow palettes and trying new color palettes.
Previously I would create the same neutral eye look everyday. Mainly, I think it was out of laziness, comfort, and rushing around. Don’t get me wrong, I’m still a neutrals girl, but now I’m more likely to sit down and create a colorful, unique look.
Lip Gloss –
I used to pride myself on not liking lip gloss — weird, right? But I was so put off by it in the past. But now? I have to stop myself from purchasing new lip glosses. I love the shine they give to the lips and how they can add a juicy, luscious feel to a makeup look.
When it comes to gloss, I think it’s about finding the right formula. I don’t like anything too thick and goopy feeling, and I don’t like glosses that are too sticky. Some of my favorite lip gloss formulas comes from Colourpop, Bite Beauty, Marc Jacobs, and Wet n Wild. The Fenty Gloss Bombs have also become a favorite.
Eye Liner –
In high school particular, I was all about a statement liner. I never quite mastered the winged liner back then, but once I did, I was hooked. A makeup look just wasn’t complete without that dark rim of black on the eye. Now I prefer something much softer.
There’s still a time and place for a bold, liquid winged liner, but day to day I go sans liner or create something soft with a dark eye shadow.
When I do opt for a liquid or wing, I like to make that the statement. Instead of doing a crazy eye look plus a wing, I’ll go pretty easy on the lid instead. I’m also a huge fan of colorful winged liner lately. It’s such an easy, fun way to add a pop of color for summer!
Dewy & Glowy Complexion –
High school Jacqie would truly be baffled by 2019 Jacqie in so many ways, but especially by her makeup preferences. Then, if my base products weren’t a solid matte finish, I thought I looked terrible. The worst thing in the world was looking oily.
Now? I probably use 3, minimum, glowy products at a time. A dewy glow looks so much more natural and healthy, and I’m embracing it these days. Today I used an illuminating primer, cream highlight, and a dewy setting mist.
Full Coverage Foundation –
Again, high school Jac would be appalled. I used to only use full coverage foundations. I didn’t want anything to peek though — no skin, no blemishes. But after a while I realized full coverage foundation just isn’t my style.
I highly prefer a sheer-light coverage base product. I don’t mind if blemishes, redness, or skin shows through. A lighter coverage base looks so much more natural. And it’s easier to keep up with. You never have to worry about it looking too cakey or breaking up, leaving an obvious trace.
Don’t get me wrong, I still have full coverage products on hand. Sometimes you want a flawless complexion. But on the daily, I prefer a light coverage foundation product.
A Classic Red Lip
One of my favorite makeup stories to tell takes place in college. I walked into class wearing Nars Roman Holiday, which is a light pink shade. And when I did, someone commented saying, “Wow. I have never seen you without a red lip.” That’s because you didn’t. All I ever wore was red; I loved it. I still do. But you’ll find me in the nude more and more often these days.
A red lip is a beautiful statement; it’s classic. I also think a red lip can compliment so many different eye looks (especially a good bronze look.) But they can be a little finicky. You run the risk of major transfer, feathering, notable fading, etc. It’s just a little high maintenance.
Nude lip sticks can also make a statement. They’re a little easier to wear. And there’s something so attractive about a glossy nude lip.
My Current Makeup Preferences –
To wrap it up, my current makeup preferences look a little something like this:
- Sheer to light coverage foundation with a natural/dewy finish
- Juicy, glossy lips
- As much as I love a good red lip, I also love a good nude lip.
How have your makeup preferences changed over the years? Let us know in the comments!
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