Since I’ve been spending a considerable amount of time at airports lately, I’ve gotten a chance to browse the duty free cosmetics counters from NYC to Hong Kong (and several cities in between). Here are some of my favorite finds:
1) YSL Bow Collection. I’m generally not a fan of multi usage palettes because it’s nearly impossible to find one where all the colors are usable. This one is definitely much more usable than most in that regard. The eyeshadows are very wearable for evening (important considering the holiday season is fast approaching) and the shiny highlighter is something every woman should have in her makeup bag. However, it’s really the glossy and perfect shade of pink lipstick that I’m absolutely crazy about! I’m really into bright lipsticks for daytime wear lately: just a touch of mascara and a bright glossy lipstick is the easiest makeup recipe for a contemporary chic look. This particular lipstick fits the bill to a T: it’s the perfect bright but not too bright shade of pink (huge color this season) with a touch of glossiness but greater saturation than a standard lip gloss. A bonus: the set comes in a cool black bow clutch reminiscent of a classic YSL design and usable on its own for evening wear.
2) Nars “Rated R” eyeshadow in green and cobalt blue. I’m particularly keen on the green shade. The color is a fun and unexpected alternative to the usual evening smokey eye look. What makes it work is that the color is just as saturated when applied to your eye as it is in the compact. Also I find that this lime green shade works to enhance just about every eye color and skin tone beautifully.
3) Shu Uemura Tokyo Lash Bar. Falsies don’t get any more fun than this. Yes this is a product to indulge your more adventurous side, but I’m a firm believer in stepping outside your comfort zone and adding playful elements to your usual fare every so often. I especially love the “mini” lashes from this collection. They are applied from the middle of your lid to the outer corner and come is a nice feathered mix of colors.
4) BVL Eau de Parfum 2. Moving on to fragrances: for all the “Angel by Thierry Mugler” fans out there, I have good news. This new Bulgari scent is a fresh take on some of the same sweet floral and vanilla undertones.
5) Allure Homme Sport. Lets hear it for the boys…this light citrusy scent is reminiscent of what a male version of “Light Blue by D&G” should smell like. It’s a really great alternative to fragrances like Cool Water, which I think are grossly overused. Another thing I love about this scent: it doesn’t make me think of a sleazy guy with slicked back hair and a penchant for strong colognes…ugh (ladies I think you know exactly what I’m talking about here).