I never consider myself particularly brand loyal when it comes to make up, in fact I find it hard to repurchase things on the rare occasion I actually use them up because in my mind, surely there must be something else out there to fall in love with? Confessions of a make up hoarder. Base in particular I usually source from an array of different brands as it can be the most tricky balance to get right, but a handful of offerings from NARS have been slowly creeping their way into my routine and now I'm finding it hard to go without them.
On good skin days it's the lighter option of the Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturiser that takes the ticket, which although having the most weightless, breathable and more importantly - non sticky oil-free formula I've ever come across with a make up/moisturiser hybrid, the coverage is somewhat surprising. A pea sized amount worked in with fingers (sheer coverage and brushless application - who am I!?) evens out uneven patches and redness imparting just the right amount of glow and when teamed with a few dabs of the Radiant Creamy Concealer - one incredibly pigmented product that doesn't know the meaning of the word 'cakey', on areas that require just a little extra, people will be wondering how on earth you have such perfect skin without make up on - wink wink.
For times when my complexion just isn't cooperating and that extra boost of cover is needed I opt for Sheer Glow - the foundation that comes with Cult status for a reason. Higher in the coverage stakes but no harder to blend in and with double the lasting power, this is the one for impeccably flawless skin. The terms 'sheer' and 'glow' are slightly misplaced here but although it has a satin like finish, theres definitely a hint of inner radiance about it - and isn't that the best kind anyway?
Since the Guy Bourdin One Night Stand Palette dropped a bomb on the beauty scene there's been a complete lack of other cheek products in my life. Why open two different Muji draws when everything's ready waiting in this neat little package? Deep Throat has been my everyday colour of choice for a natural pink flush, but Goulue has also taken my fancy with it's seasonal deeper tones. I've even been embracing Laguna - the bronzer I've had a well documented struggle with on my fair skin. The right brush is key in sculpting out a good cheekbone with this and the fluffy yet precise Zoeva Sheer Luxe Cheek Brush has this step covered. Unfortunately with the palette being limited edition it's near impossible to find online, but I hear rumours that they still may be lurking around the odd NARS counter. If you see one I seriously suggest you grab it!
The rest of my routine has yet to succumb to the lure of NARS - although I had a close call with their Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in Cruella recently. Super easy application, incredibly pigmented, great staying power and the most beautiful rich dark red that would have been perfect for Winter. The problem you ask? I wore it once and lost it. Yes, I know, I'm still kicking myself, feel free to join in. The wound is still too painful to go back for a second attempt but I certainly encourage you to!