Tis the season to be shopping
Foreword
For this post I have selected my top five high-end products, that I think you guys really need to get your mitts on during this month's Sephora Sale (whether you look for a holiday gift or something special for yourself, you do you boo!). So without further ado - if you are curious to know more, then please keep on scrolling!
#1 Pat McGrath Labs MatteTrance Lipstick
If you are a friend to the blog (welcome back!) or Instagram, then you already know just how much I love my Pat McGrath Labs MatteTrance Lipsticks (40 USD; Made in Italy).
This was one of the first products that Pat came out with, quickly becoming the number one reason why I fell in love with the brand. Although I only own a few, I treasure and look after mine similarly to how Cerberus guards the gates of the Underworld. These are easily the BEST classic bullet mattes you will find at Sephora.
What's so special about MatteTrance? It is a one swipe magic, 100% opaque and non-drying satin-matte formula that is incredibly long-wearing and easy to apply. It feels like a cloud on the lips and currently comes in more than 30 modern and timeless shades created by Mother Pat.
The one you see me wearing on the image here is called Full Blooded and it is the most stunning deep wine color you could ever think of. I would also recommend shades: 1995, Full Panic, Obsessed!, Elson and Christy.
Still unsure where to start? Try the brand's LUST: Mini MatteTrance Lipstick Trios (currently available in nude and red shades) for less than 25 USD while the sale is on. Stocking stuffers never looked this luxe!
Full review here
#2 Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter
While it is a relatively new addition to my ever-growing makeup collection, Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter (44 USD; Made in Italy) is here to stay. Forever.
I hear you ask "What's so special about it?". Well, if you have ever wanted to look like a real-life FaceTune filter, this product is for you. It hydrates, adds a minimal amount of coverage, blurs pores and mimics the most glorious faux-orgasm glow you could ever imagine (pardon my ... ahem French).
While this description might not sound that alluring for oilier skin types, if you are normal or dry and always wanted that three-in-one primer to layer underneath your foundation - please meet your match.
You can also use Hollywood Flawless Filter in place of or underneath your powder highlighters; I love this technique because it creates the most believable glow of life (and it never accentuates texture).
Always in a hurry? Pop a bit of this product to the high-points of your face, add concealer, mascara and you're ready to conquer the World. Available in seven undertones, from Fair to Dark.
Full review here
#3 Dior Backstage Face & Body Foundation
It's been raining foundations this year and while I have reviewed and enjoyed most of what I have tried so far, I am back in LOVE with Dior Backstage Face & Body Foundation (40 USD; Made in France).
As a reviewer, I am always tempted to find that "next best formula", which means that sometimes I tend to forget about what I already own. Lately I have been craving that long-wearing, yet sheer-ish base; one that felt lightweight, managed to even out my skin tone and remained undetectable to the naked eye. This Dior baby is all that and your favorite French fries.
The best part is that it can be easily applied with fingers and you can layer it to get a desired coverage. The finish is quite natural and a touch satin in feel. I am wearing shade 1.5 Neutral with Hollywood Flawless Filter in Light underneath it on the image here. Oh, did I mention it photographs like magic?
Backstage Face & Body Foundation is currently available in 40 shades, covering a plethora of undertones. I would say it works for all skin types, but if you are very dry - make sure to exfoliate and moisturize your skin well before applying it. This formula will look flattering on beauties of all ages and complexions.
Full review here
#4 Fenty Beauty Pro Filt'r Hydrating Longwear Foundation
Now, if you would rather wear something hydrating yet still medium/full coverage and (most importantly) long-wearing well throughout the upcoming dry and icy winter season, you need to try Fenty Beauty Pro Filt'r Hydrating Foundation (35 USD; Made in Italy).
I am not sure why so many people shy away from hydrating/dewy foundations during colder months by seeking something mattifying instead. Personally speaking, I feel like when everything is up against your skin (winds, heating, stress etc.) the last thing I want is to dry out my skin even more. Thankfully, Pro Filt'r Hydrating Foundation has more of a natural skin finish, it is not overly summer-dewy, so I feel like it will be a great option for those of us, who want to keeps things juicy well into winter holidays.
Not only does it come in whopping 50 shades, thus having something for everyone, but it also seems to be more loved than its predecessor. Unlike the original Fenty Beauty Pro Filt'r Soft Matte Foundation, this one feels and looks so much more effortless on the skin, yet it does cover and it does last. It is more nourishing and forgiving, which is why I will be definitely recommending you to get it during the Sephora Sale.
I am wearing mix of shades 150 and 210 on the photo (I added a darker shade to match my tan at the time).
Full review here
#5 Pat McGrath Labs Blitz Astral Quad Eyeshadow Palettes
I saved the best for last and you don't want to miss this one. If you had a chance to read my last review, then you already know just how fond I am of Pat McGrath Labs "special" eyeshadows; I am talking about those four glimmering pressed pigments you see on the right-hand side of every big MOTHERSHIP Palette. Well, this year the brand decided to treat us and finally put those unique shades in their own quads and call them Blitz Astral Quad Eyeshadow Palettes (65 USD; Made in Italy).
If you have always wanted to experience the eyeshadow magic that Pat McGrath Labs is so famous and loved for - you seriously need to get your hands on at least one of these quads. There are three palettes and three different color stories here; the one you see on my photo is called Nocturnal Nirvana and it is, hands down, the most gorgeous quad I own (and I own many).
With your Sephora Sale 15-20% off, you will be able to treat yourself to Mother Pat's most coveted formulations for a price that is not 125 USD (note: previously you would have to cash out on big 10-pan palettes to try these sparkly pigments).
If you are looking for more details, do check my full review here
What do you guys think about these picks? Let's chat some more in the comments!
More online: sephora.com
Purchased products; full disclaimer here
