all time FAVE!

I am a self-proclaimed beauty product junkie. At any given time, I probably have at least six or more lip glosses/lipsticks in my bag. I'll never admit to how many I actually own. But in the process of moving (ugh!), I noticed that I have one lip gloss (and only one) that I have ever used in its entirety! Life on the A List by Benefit Cosmetics is apparently my all time favorite lip gloss because I haven't had it that long and it's gone. Well, long enough that the packaging has changed but the actual product hasn't. I tested this statement out recently at a Sephora. I guess this is a testament to how much I love Benefit Cosmetics, huh?! Anyhoo. I recommend you try out this gloss because it's soft pink that looks great alone or layered on top of practically any color lipstick. This gloss is great too because it's not too sticky and doesn't feel heavy at all!

the bolder, the better

I was in VEGAS this past weekend for a friend's bachelorette party and this picture reminded me that I am always trying to get other people to wear lip color!! I have worked with SO many ladies who tell me that they never wear lipstick or that they only wear plain lip balm/a sheer lip gloss. Well I have just one question. WHY?! I will definitely agree that there are times when sheer is all that works, but don't be afraid of color ladies. BE BOLD!!

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I know there are a ton of color options in stores and I also know that trying something new can get overwhelming but trust your judgement. Think of your wardrobe. What colors tend to look good on you and bring you a ton of compliments? If there is a little extra pep in your step when you wear hot pink, then let's start there. Get the idea?!

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And as far as wardrobe is concerned, stick to a basic black or white ensemble as you begin to experiment with a bold new lip color. And remember to keep the rest of your makeup VERY simple. Bold lips tend to look good with basic black eyeliner and loads of mascara. Another idea for first timers is to wear it around the house for a few days when doing laundry, cooking dinner, etc. until you warm up to actually venturing outside with your fabulous new look!

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A good rule of thumb when wearing a bold lip color is to apply in layers to give it maximum staying power. Start with a lip stain or lip liner that matches your lipstick shade. Personally, I LOVE the CoverGirl OutLast Lip Stains under just about anything. Then apply the first layer of lipstick (this is a time when brushes work wonders). Next blot your lips with tissue. Apply another layer and VIOLA!

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So I challenge you to put your best face foward and embrace the more colorful options in lipstick...

Here are a few of MY personal favs!

Benefit Cosmetics Silky Finish Lipstick - Frenched

Neutrogena MoistureShine Lipstick with SPF20 - Tickled Pink

Sephora Brand Maniac Long Wearing Lipstick - #10







And also, click HERE for an article from ALLURE magazine on how to wear red lipstick.