Beauty essentials for an evening out
We love the look of false lashes, but we’ve wasted countless pairs on (and been late to countless parties because of) botched application attempts. When there’s no time to enlist the skills of a professional, we suggest investing in the Deluxe Lash Placement Kit ($18) from Sephora (Prudential Center, 800 Boylston Street, Boston, 617.262.4200). A curved, rubbery clip grasps the falsies, steadying them and allowing for perfect, no-gaps placement along the natural lash line. The kit, which includes glue and a starter pair of lashes, also comes with an antibacterial storage stand that keeps lashes in shape for multiple uses.
We’re of the mind that most mascaras are created equal, but after perusing countless blog posts extolling the virtues of Fiberwig Mascara ($22), we had to give the “paint-on false lashes” a try. A special formula contains tiny fibers that plump up lashes for a fuller, lengthier look, and the mascara stays put until you sponge it off with warm water. The top-selling mascara in Japan, Fiberwig can be found stateside at Sephora.
The idea of lip liner feels so 1994, but the Velvet Matte Lip Pencil ($24) by NARS, available at Nordstrom (Natick Collection, 290 Speen Street, Natick, 508.318.2600), is one of the most evolved lip products we’ve tested in some time. The richly pigmented shades glide on with ease, lining and filling in lips with a creamy, not chalky finish (thank the pencil’s special blend of emollients). Color lasts from cocktail hour through your late-night diner visit, too.
It’s important to begin every evening with a strong base — whether that’s a great martini or a fabulous foundation. Fake a flawless complexion with Face Architect Fluid Foundation ($42), from Shu Uemura (130 Newbury Street, Boston, 617.247.3500). Painstakingly researched for optimal coverage, the formula is made up of an optical smoother (to minimize pores or discolorations), a spherical glider (to ensure smooth application), and cover-fit particles (to reflect light). Blue, red, and brown algae extracts help keep skin smooth and hydrated.
If your night out features thumping bass lines and flashing strobe lights, why not experiment with a vibrant eyeliner? Available in high-impact hues like Violet Laser and Electro Blue, Bourjois Liner Clubbing ($16) is meant to be painted on in a precise, close-to-the-lashes line. (It’s also available in more sedate shades like Brown Vibes and Absolute Black.) Liner Clubbing is also totally sweatproof, making it ideal for an evening in the center of the dance floor. Pick it up at Ulta (Gateway Center, 15 Mystic View Road, Everett, 617.381.0040).
