Because all we want for Christmas is... makeup!
Foreword
Wow. It feels so refreshing to finally sit down and write a new post after (what seemed like) crazy first weeks of December. I apologize for the lack of reviews this month; as my Instagram friends would know - I just had an unexpected surgery and took some time off to fully recover. I am feeling amazing now and am finally ready to share some of my favourite beauty picks. Some of these products are holiday launches, while some are simply my favourite 2018 releases (so I decided to include them as well). Curious? Then buckle up and enjoy the ride!
Pat McGrath LABS
Bronze Seduction (125 USD; Made in Italy) is truly THE BEST eyeshadow palette of the year. I have said it once, I will say it again. While I really liked the look of Pat's 6-pan sized holiday palettes (have a look here), I personally find that Bronze Seduction is her best release to date (and I own quite a few of her other palettes).
This baby is what a cohesive eyeshadow palette should look like: you have your mattes (light, medium, deep), you have your metallics, you have your fun pops of colour including both sophisticated and daring duochrome glitter; here you get everything that is going to help transform even the most basic eye look into something spectacular. What is even more important - these universally flattering shades are going to suit beauties of all ages and complexions. We've seen girls at the mall wear it, we've seen stars wear it, we've seen models wear it - it is, I feel, one of those iconic products that the brand will be forever famous for.
Full Review: click here.
I would also highly (highly!) recommend checking out the brand's MatteTrance Lipsticks (38 USD; Made in Italy). This year Pat has dressed some of her iconic, bestselling shades into wonderful limited-edition red, pink and turquoise "coats" - just for the holidays - and I am totally here for it. I did not see these little guys on sephora.com, so would suggest shopping on her website instead, mainly because there are more interesting kits and better deals available (such as 10-25% off, free domestic shipping, fast worldwide shipping and more).
I've only had a great experience shopping on patmcgrath.com and am very happy with my lipsticks, which you can see above. These come in sets of two or three and are also sold individually - discover an entire range here.
Full Review: click here.
Charlotte Tilbury
2018 was a huge success for Charlotte and her line - she has opened multiple boutiques across the Globe; joined Sephora and launched a wonderful variety of new products. I must admit her holiday releases did not disappoint either. I have showcased some of my personal favourites on Instagram and here are a few other things that are worth checking out (whether it is a gift for someone else or yourself):
The Dolce Vita Eyeshadow Palette (53 USD; Made in Italy) - is (in my not so humble opinion) the best palette that Charlotte offers. Every time, every single time I wear that chocolate-gold-glittery shadow I get stopped and asked about it by [surprisingly] men. I do not know that many men, who notice an eyeshadow, let alone ask about it - so it does mean a whole lot to me. These warm tones are going to flatter every complexion and eye colour, which is exactly why I think that out of everything that the brand offers, this one's a keeper.
Bar Of Gold Highlighting Palette (58 USD; Made in Italy) - if you are into that bold, yet sophisticated glow, then you're going to love this one. These powders are buttery smooth and can easily go from sheer to blinding, depending on what kind of look you have in mind. Here you get Charlotte's original Bar of Gold, as well as two new rose-gold and bronze-gold shades (all of which you can use wet or dry).
Mini Makeup Brush Set (65 USD; Made in China) - I love this cute little set with four of Charlotte's mini brushes and clutch/portable makeup case. These have synthetic bristles, feel soft and would make amazing travel companions.
Zoeva Cosmetics
Every time I post a picture of these brushes (even if they're not the center piece) so many of you guys ask me about them. And I am not surprised, because ever since I got my hands on this brush set, I can't stop using it! I am talking about Zoeva Screen Queen Complete Set (145 USD; Made in China). Here you get 15 amazing brushes for both face and eyes, that come in a beautiful gold/baby-pink design. Alternatively, you can purchase these guys individually.
I have been using Zoeva for many years now and even some of my oldest brushes still look brand-new. If you, or someone in your life, is into high-quality professional brushes (that do not cost an arm and a leg) then I have a feeling you're going to love every tool this brand has to offer (find more here). Plus the online shopping experience has always been great - I just received three of my new brushes yesterday and they are everything I could ever ask for!
Full Review: click here.
MAC Cosmetics
Naturally, MAC Cosmetics are one of the pioneers of holiday collections (and pretty much "limited edition" everything) and, being a fan, I look forward to their Christmas releases every year.
This year's theme is called Shiny Pretty Things and to me the standout products are the brand's limited-edition Extra Dimension Powders (both highlighters and face palettes), as well as various value kits. My favourite has got to be the large Lip Kit (79.50 USD; Made in Canada) with ten mini lipsticks in it. Why? Well, it has got the best selection of MAC bestselling shades including Velvet Teddy, Twig, Ruby Woo, Chili and more. This means you can try a plethora of different finishes and formulas, that the brand is famous for, without breaking the bank. Plus, despite their petite size (1.4 gr/0.05 oz vs. original 2.8 gr/1 oz), these actually have enough product to last you well throughout the year and then you can always get a full-sized version of those shades, that you have been loving the most. If you think about it, you're only paying fraction of the price for 50% of the original lipstick. It's a win-win!
P.S. even better - this kit is currently on sale for 59.63 USD on ulta.com
Bite Beauty
Last but not least - when it comes to deliciously creamy lipsticks, you can't beat Bite Beauty Amuse Bouche range (26 USD; Handcrafted in Canada). These are the best organic lipsticks I've ever tried and I strongly believe that more people need to experience this magical formula. If you are looking for a clean, cruely-free, long-lasting, nourishing and kissable lipstick formula - you might seriously fall in love with this one. Also a wonderful gift idea for mommies-to-be.
Full Review: click here.
What do you guys think about my top holiday picks? Do you spot any favourites? Let's chat some more in the comments!
Purchased Products and PR Samples; full disclaimer here
