Everyday Seven

Last week's A Pregnant Lady Eats was pretty fun, so I thought that this week I would do kind of a similar Quick Takes - my "everyday seven." If you peeked at the pic below, you have probably surmised that I am talking about cosmetics. I am a very low key person when it comes to primping and things of that nature. For some reason, I just don't have the patience for it.  I guess it's a good thing I prefer a more natural look for myself!

That being said, there are certain things that I have become accustomed to and use every day. I may have to be awake with sick kids during the night, or put up with an awful headache, but the world doesn't have to know. With a few minutes and my essentials, I can fool most everybody. So here we go:

1

e.l.f. Shimmer Eyeliner Pencil in Black Bandit ($1) 

You may remember that I blogged about this product already here. I love it; I have not a single complaint about it, and the included sharpener on the cap works amazingly well. If you don't wear eyeliner, you may be surprised to see how it can really bring out your eyes. Visit this site to see one of the most common eyeliner mistakes and how to avoid it. I draw a line from the inner corner of the eye to the outer edge, beginning thin and getting slightly wider gradually to the outer edge (upper lid only).

2

CoverGirl LashBlast Length in Very Black ($6-8)

I like all of the LashBlast mascaras that I have tried. This is the first time I've used "Length." No clumps, no smudging. It doesn't knock my socks off, but for the price range and just everyday wear, it's great. I apply two coats to the upper lashes, and then...

3

CoverGirl Smoothers Concealer Stick in Fair ($6-8)

I apply under eye concealer.  I always have under eye circles. Everyone has blood vessels around their eyes, but some of us have thinner skin than others, hence the area appearing darker perpetually. Just smooth under the eye, and blend a bit with your ring finger (because it applies less pressure). I keep my CG concealer in the refrigerator; it seems to provide greater coverage for a longer period of time when applied at a lower temp, plus it feels nice!

4

e.l.f. Shimmering Facial Whip in Lilac Petal ($1)

I squeeze a tiny bit of this between my thumb and pointer finger and rub together, then I apply it in a wide C area around the eye, stopping on the point of my cheek that is almost below my pupil. It's kind of hard to visualize, I know. Just imagine the upper part of your cheek that is hit most easily by the sun and is the first place to turn pink. You may or may not be more confused by looking at my graphic below (see the white indicator). My only complaint about this particular highlighter is that it doesn't last all that long. I'm on the lookout for something with more staying power (yet won't break the bank).

5 & 6  

CoverGirl Instant Cheekbones in Refined Rose ($5-8) / Sephora Blush Brush (from set, $39)

I use the darkest color in the the trio to make an angled line from the ear to just below the cheekbone - it's the area that comes in when you make "fish lips" (see the blue indicator). Then I use the middle color for the outer apples of my cheeks (see the red indicator), blending the colors with my brush. I like the two darker colors of this blush trio (the lightest is practically invisible on my skin), but I don't use the brush that comes with it. It's shape makes achieving a natural look via blending very difficult. Also, the staying power of the blush isn't great, so again, I'm on the lookout for something that lasts longer.

7

Sally Hansen Diamond Strength in Pulled Sugar ($3-5)

I never paint my finger nails, because I just can't seem to keep them looking great. I do, however, paint my toenails bright red or something very light. This particular polish is nearly translucent with a touch of pink. Application and touch ups are super easy because the color is so forgiving. I'm all for going the easy route these days!