Tuesday, February 4, 2014

Tuesday's Top 5: Concealers

Happy Tuesday!

There are few things in this world that I love more than life itself and concealer would definitely rank as a number one.  Lets just say, during the question of "what is the one thing you would bring if you were deserted on an island," I seriously contemplate saying concealer, but the judging would be on another level.

Some say to never leave the house without mascara, but with my darker features, my dark circles frighten small children (dramatic) -- so I load up on concealer.  

Anyways, I have searched high and low and kissed some frogs in order to find these top five picks. My main criteria is always that my concealer must be thick and opaque. 

Here are my favorites (the colors may not be accurate): 
Laura Mercier secret camouflage (here) is amazing! This is my number one concealer because of the coverage I get. I know, I know.. a little pricey, but a little goes a long way. I have had my compact for months and can't get enough.
Smashbox high definition concealer (here) was my first high brand concealer. I love the texture of it -- it is so smooth and creamy. The coverage is great for blemishes. There are a lot of colors too, so its simpler to find your perfect shade.
Maybelline Dream Lumi (here) is my favorite drug store concealer. The salmon color works wonders on dark spots and under eye circles. The texture and coverage is fantastic for a drugstore product. I have bought this more than five times. My only critique would be that it doesn't last. I'm not sure if its the clicking packaging that makes the product go by so quickly, but its usually on-sale, so stock up!
L'Oreal Paris True Match Crayon Concealer (here) is new to my collection. I love how easy this product is to apply to the under eye and I even us it to highlight my cupid's bow and my bridge of my nose. I bought a darker crayon and use it for contouring my cheek bones and jawline. Just remember to blend, blend, blend. I would recommend these products to someone who isn't sure about highlighting/contouring and is just starting out. It is a great first product!

I use L'Oreal Magic Lumi (here) in conjunction with the salmon Dream Lumi (above) to get a more highlighted look. This is a great option for covering blemishes and getting a lighter under eye.




There are the options I have been using for years. I am always looking for other concealers to try. What do you use? Comment below or follow my on twitter at @emilymekstan.

xoxo,
Emily

Monday, February 3, 2014

Monday Maroon


My love for the color red has grown as I have gotten older. Maybe it's the wisdom of my old age (sarcasm) that has sent me in this direction! :)

This Forever 21 button down is a great transitional piece. It's lightweight enough for summer and can be a great layering piece. 

To winterize it today, I paired it with  a leather pencil skirt from Ellen Tracy. Something about the thicker material makes this acceptable in the winter. 

Enjoy and let me know what you think :) 

Xoxo,
Emily

Saturday, February 1, 2014

Weekend Wish List

Happy weekend! 

I live for the weekends. It is my opportunity to run errands, spend time with friends and family, and maybe.. get a little shopping in. However, Chicago keeps getting hit with massive snow so its cramping my weekend plans. One thing that is for sure is my fashion has been hindered by the practicality of not getting frost bite (dramatic? yes.. but accurate? totally). Needless to say I am over Chicago and cannot wait for Scott and I's Valentine's Day trip to California in 10 (ish) days!

Not only will we be in warmer weather, I can wear some of my favorite items that I bought recently at Forever 21 for spring!

Spring is on its way (or that's what I keep telling myself) and the fashion is on-point! I am loving what stores and designers are unveiling for spring -- preppy chic, bright colors and pastels, jumpsuits and more! Here are some of my favorites:

River Island Polka Dot Tube Skirt
I love everything about this look (except the shoes). The skirt would be great with a white v-neck too (here)
ASOS Full Midi Skirt In Scuba With Pockets
I love midi skirts. I love the pink color -- very spring (here)
Such a cute iPhone case (here)
Steve Madden Espadrille (here)
Image 1 of ASOS Jumpsuit in Monochrome with Ruffle Back
Monochrome Jumpsuit (here)
PIM + LARKIN Ciao Sweater (here)