MODA Blog's Holy Grail Products: Alexia
Every product junkie knows that the ultimate reason behind racking up drawers and drawers of new lipsticks, concealers, powders, etc., is to find a holy grail. Holy grail products are those magical items that are just right–right texture, right color, right finish, right lasting power–and that's what makes them so difficult to find.In honor of that search, MODA Blog has decided to share some of our holy grail products in a new series. Every week, a different blogger will discuss their three all-time favorite beauty products, which can include anything from makeup to skincare to hair care. You'll get a peek into the beauty lives of our MODA bloggers and hopefully, discover some new holy grail products of your own.
Up first, is our Assistant Editor-in-Chief and Living Section Editor, Alexia!
Photo by Rebecca Cho
The three items below are ones that I've re-purchased and recommended and know that I can count on to get me through my day without a fuss.
Photo by Alexia Bacigalupi
Blush is probably my favorite makeup item. Well except maybe after mascara. I love cream blushes for the slight dewiness they add to the skin and the staying power. This twist up stick from Tarte is one of the best. The formula is creamy and applies evenly for a beautiful flush. I like to stripe it above my cheekbones straight from the packaging and then blend it in with a soft brush for a subtle effect. For a night out, a powder blush layers well over it without getting clumpy. I've had mine for over a year now and am only now getting to the last few inches, so it's totally worth the price tag. "Blissful" is a warm pink with slight peachy undertones that blends seamlessly for a pretty wash of color that looks like I've just worked out (in a healthy rosy way, not the "I'm gasping for breath and sweating my body weight out" kind of way).
Photo by Alexia Bacigalupi
L'Oréal Voluminous Butterfly Mascara
This mascara is probably my "What makeup would you bring with you to a deserted island" item. Even if I don't wear any makeup, I like to cheat with a swipe of this mascara to emphasize my eyes in a super subtle way. It adds the perfect definition and length for a pretty, eye-opening everyday look that isn't overboard. The winged out brush is great for adding product on the outer lashes for an extra-fluttery look while the product isn't overly wet and clumpy. It builds up easily too and isn't super stubborn to take off at the end of the night. Basically, it's affordable, goofproof, and looks great for everyday.
Photo by Alexia Bacigalupi
NYX Liquid Suede Cream Lipstick in Kitten Heels
This stuff is the bomb. In fact, you could probably survive a bomb and emerge with flawless lipstick wearing this. When I wear lipstick, I want it to apply nicely and then not have to worry about it until I get back to my room at night which seems to be a tall order. Generously sized, this liquid lipstick goes on matte and then doesn't budge all day. In the midst of finals season I once took a nap in this and woke up with hardly a smudge on my pillow. The formula is on the thicker side, but applies the saturated color evenly and dries down quickly without any tackiness. A base of red lipliner helps lock the lipstick in place; I found that I only needed the briefest of touch ups at the corners of my lips after a full day of wear and a few meals. I may even like it more than my Stila "All Day Liquid Lipstick" in "Beso", a long time favorite. The color "Kitten Heels" is the perfect neutral-toned bright red to pair with an LBD or a striped top Alexa Chung style. And the best part? It's less than $10. Literally doesn't get better than that.
Photography by Alexia Bacigalupi
Featured image via
What are your holy grail beauty products? Let us know in the comments below!
