Everyday Makeup for Beginners (Updated Video) & Small Giveaway

**The winner of my cameo giveaway has been announced here. Congrats, Danielle!**

I've received many emails from women who are just starting out with makeup, and are unsure where to begin. I was in the same boat a year ago, but have since ended up with a simple routine that works for me, for the time being. My skills are rudimentary, so I'm hoping to learn tips from a beauty guru friend soon.

I did think twice before posting this (as the internet is a haven for people who like to criticize and judge), but I'm pretty comfortable with my bare face. As one discovers and uses more makeup, I think it's important to not become dependent on it to feel acceptable. That being said, makeup can really do wonders to enhance features. Nature gave me small eyes and stubby lashes, but in this video you can see the effects of some simple shadow and liner.


If you are just starting out with makeup, feel free to play around and skip steps that you don't need. For example, if you have great skin, then concealer and foundation may not be necessary. If you don't like the feeling of eye paint aka liner, then you can skip the liquid liner and instead darken the liner eyeshadow.

Products used: Make Up For Ever Duo Mat Foundation in shade 203, MAC Select Cover-Up in NW25, Rock & Republic Blush (sadly discontinued) in Immoral, ELF Eyelid Primer, NYX Smokey Eyes Palette, Lorac Liquid Liner, and Lancome Definicils Mascara.

At first I was overwhelmed with the selection of shadow brushes, but I guess they really do have their own purpose. I recommend at least the following: flat shadow brush, precision shadow brush (for lining), and fluffy blending brush. You can get them for $1 to $3 a pop on ELF (be sure to search around for coupon codes).

As I'm wearing more makeup, I realize the importance of taking it all off at the end of the day. I absolutely love Lancome's Bi-Facil eye makeup remover. It's very pricey at retail but I buy the sample-size bottles in bulk on eBay (can you tell I love eBay?). I've tried a few drugstore brands and some irritated my eyes so badly I went and asked for my money back. Lancome's remover is super gentle and a few wipes is all it takes.

I have an extra NYX Smokey Eye palette from Ulta which I'd like to give away to a reader. To enter, please just be a follower and fill out the form below:


Readers - I am trying to find a liquid waterproof liner that has amazing staying power but won't break the bank. I've retired my old cheapie NYC $3 liners because they flake off. This $23 one works beautifully, but is too pricey for me. Any suggestions?