September is a great time to start fresh. The kids are back in school, and some adults are getting used to the office environment again in the wake of COVID. Others are starting their careers post college. I returned to the office recently and decided that I should upgrade my makeup stash for work. Like many people, I have changed my routine and am no longer wearing the full face of makeup that I once did. I wanted to look professional but still have a fresh face. Creating a kit for work does not have to be complicated. It can take you as little as five minutes to get that office-ready look you desire.
CONCEALER:
Take your favorite concealer (mine is NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer, ($30, sephora.com), and dot it under your eyes. I also place some on the center of my forehead and in the center of my chin. I use a fingertip-like brush to blend it out into the skin. If I’m really in a hurry, I’ll take my actual fingertips or the sponge from my powder to help smooth it out.
FOUNDATION:
For fast, full-coverage makeup, I recommend MAC Studio Fix Powder ($39, ulta.com). One thing about this powder is that it does not feel heavy. It covers well and has a velvet feel. It comes with a little sponge applicator, and I also keep a wide powder brush in my kit. Apply the powder lightly over your face until you reach the desired level of coverage; it’s buildable.
BLUSH:
Now it’s time to add some life back into your face after the foundation covers the skin, making it one tone. Blush is my favorite part of the makeup experience. I love having rosy, pink cheeks, and I recommend the Anastasia Beverly Hills Blush Trio ($30, sephora.com). It instantly changes my mood to happy.
MASCARA:
This is the other product I can’t live without. After the blush, grab your favorite mascara. Mine is Nars Climax ($25, narscosmetics.com). Apply to your lashes and repeat if necessary. It really takes your natural lashes to the next level. They get a great lift, and the color impact is very pigmented — instant va-va-voom.
LIPSTICK/LIPGLOSS:
I like for my lipstick to coordinate with what I’m wearing, and a good red lipstick makes me feel like I’m ready to take on the world, which is a great attitude in the workplace; try MAC Retro Matte Lipstick (ulta.com, $21). Liquid lipsticks have been a lifesaver and provide all-day wear —meaning I don’t have to reapply as often. Keep a red, nude, berry and pink shade at your disposal. They are essential for the everyday woman’s kit. Having a neutral or clear gloss also comes in handy.
