Make-up basics

Because I think that the best make-up, for everyday, is the one others don't notice. Because I like to be able to do it in 10 minutes or less. Because I believe that make-up is supposed to enhance your features, not hide them. Because some of you have asked me about it before. And because I'd like to share it with you . . Here are my 11 make-up basics.

M.A.C. Powder Brush. Made out of soft natural fibers, this rounded tip brush is great for applying loose powder on both face and body. Yet, although I know I'm not supposed to use it for this, I also apply my blush with it, and I have to say it does quite a good job at this task too. However, keep in mind that I don't like my blush to have a clear contour and, thus, this wider brush does a good job at replacing a proper blush brush. The limited edition silver handle is just the cherry on the cake.

Avon Diamond Shimmer Pearls. These little beauties are not only pretty to look at, but they also ensure your face has a natural glow. Considering that most of us spent the majority of our time indoors, either at a desk, or in front of a laptop, or both, a sun-kissed 'natural-looking' glow obtained with the help of artificial enhancers is really nothing to frown upon. From what I've heard Guerlain's Meteorites Pearls is also a good choice for those of us looking for a bit of radiance.

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine - 56 Chance. A creamy lipstick that becomes a lot less saturated than it appears to be when applied on the lips. Thus it is not only easy to use during the day, but advisable too as it is also incredibly moisturizing. While this is far from Coco's signature scarlet lipstick, it is perfect for those channeling their inner Coco Mademoiselle.

M.A.C. Plushglass - Ample Pink. Finally a lipgloss that is not as sticky as most are, but actually feels light and fresh on the lips. Add to that a lovely dusty pink color and a bit of a plumping effect and you get a perfect mix. It might not be extremely long-lasting, but then again it's as long-lasting as any lipsgloss can be. Also, the tingling feeling that you'll get when you first apply it will make you want to apply it again and again. And again :)

Guerlain KissKiss Extreme Shine Lip Gloss - Beige Caprice. If I found the perfect shade of natural pink at M.A.C, Guerlain has a wonderful beige. Although it feels a bit heavier than M.A.C.'s Plushglass it also seems to be more long-lasting. It has a beautiful glass-like finish, so this champagne shade is an excellent choice for a nude or earth-tones infused outfit.

M.A.C. Powder Blush - Mocha Matte. A basic powder blush that always gets the job done. It not only stays pup on my cheeks the entire day, but I bought it almost a year ago and it looks barely used. Considering that I apply it almost everyday this is certainly something to keep in mind when you happen to find yourself at the M.A.C. counter.

M.A.C. Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation - NW20. I know. I know. We're supposed to apply foundation and then stabilize it with powder, be it loose or solid. But try as I might to find a good foundation, my sensitive mixed skin just doesn't accept any. They either dry out my skin, or make more oily, or simply look too heavy. So how could I pass up the oportunity of using a 2-in-1 that's just perfect on my skin, smooth, almost invisible, but still conceals what needs to be concealed? It's easy to apply, long-wearing, and simply flawless.

M.A.C. Opulash - Bad, Bad, Black. Just like its name states this mascara is bad, bad, bad. It's actually the only thing that I have from M.A.C. and that I would most certainly not recommend to a friend. Quite honestly it's not horrible, in the sense that it doesn't make my lashes fall out, but it definitely isn't "dramatic" either. Not even a bit. And when my mom says, mind you not asks, but says that I forgot to apply mascara, right after I applied the Opulash, then something is wrong. I heard that the YSL is really good. What would you recommend?

M.A.C. Eye Brows - Lingering. If the eyes are the door to the soul, then the eyebrows are surely the key, because there is nothing that draws more attention to the eyes than a natural, but well-defined brow. M.A.C. Eye Brows is indeed easy to use as it's self-sharpening, and it's quite versatily too as it comes in six different shades. Yet because it is self-propelling be careful not totake to much out as it doesn't rotate back it and you won't be able to put the cap back on.

M.A.C. Fluidline - Blacktrack. Eyeliner always seems hard to apply, yet Fluidline is indeed so fluid that it guarantees a straight, precise line. Still, not fluid enough in other to become diluted, but it ensures a rich finish. This is not only my choice for a trademark eye make-up, but should be anyone's choice when it comes to professional eyeliners.

M.A.C. Angle Brush. This is Fluidline's trusty sidekick! Again, some might advise that the eye liner brush would be a much appropriate choice, but sometimes it's difficult to get rid of an old habit. And as long as it gets me a perfect eyeline in almost no time, I'm happy with it. Yet, I'm sure whichever you choose, Fluidline will not let you go wrong. And don't forget to always clean your brushes after each use.

P.S. Anyone interested in a video make-up tutorial? And I'm here for any questions/suggestions :)