Favorite Things Friday, Volume 1: Makeup

I usually like to tell people about the things I love.  Like Jesus.  Like the Downton Abbey.  Like Puerto Rican food.  Obviously, not all of these things are of equal importance, but I digress.

Pictured above are five cosmetics that are critical to my survival pretty great, and since I love them, I thought I'd spread the love around.

1 - Benefit They're Real Mascara.  It makes me look like I have actual eyelashes; a few coats of this, and I'm all set.  I recently compared it to drug store brands and, trust me, it makes a huge difference.

2 - Givenchy Rouge Interdit Lipstick in Gold Brown.  I searched high and low for the perfect warm neutral lipstick that I could wear every day with every outfit - I literally searched for years.  I finally found it at Sephora after a few hours of trying on dozens of lipsticks.  It's magical; the color somehow adjusts with my clothing.  I don't normally pay that much for lipstick, but since I wear it daily, and it goes with everything, it was worth every penny.

3 - Dr. Jart Water Fuse Beauty Balm.  I love this - it replaces a daily moisture AND foundation for me. It offers SPF protection, doesn't budge all day long, and provides the perfect amount of coverage.  The only drawback is that it comes in one shade.  Luckily, it matches my skin tone perfectly.

4 - Pixi Sheer Cheek Gel.  My cheeks tend to get dry, so this cheek gel is a great alternative to powder blush, which can look cake-y on dry skin.  It offers sheer, build-able coverage, and I love the "peachy" shade on my complexion.

5- Urban Decay 24/7 Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner in Smog.  I really like liquid eyeliner, but with my fair skin, brown and black are too harsh for every day.  I've long looked for a bronze liquid liner, and finally found it this week!  I love Urban Decay's products - in fact, I should have listed their Primer Potion as a favorite, but it's so great, it deserves its own post.  This eyeliner is super long-wearing and glides on like a dream. The "smog" shade is terrific - it's a golden olive brown.  It provides definition without too much drama. 

I hope you like some of my favorite things.  They come highly recommended, tested, and found true by yours truly.

All images c/o the websites linked above.

I should note that this is not a paid endorsement.  I really do love these products.