I not only blog about them but I use them!

Following my previous blogs on gel liners used as eyeshadows and my new favourite Stila Colour Convertibles here are some images using both...........my Easter Saturday prep.

Foundation - Chanel Matt Lumiere
MAC Concealer - NC 25
Bobbi Brown gel liner - Ivy Shimmer Ink
Mascara - Boujoirs Volume Glamour Max Definition Mascara
Cheeks/ Lips - Stila Colour Convertible - Peony

HAIR - Cloud Nine Curling Tong (JUST THE BEST ONE EVER!!!)

The best & worst gel liners!

Im a fan, huge fan actually, of gel liners and I've had the opportunity to work with many different brands.


Those of you who follow my blog know not only do I use the gel liners to line the eye but I often use them as eyeshadows particularly when doing a dark smokey eye. They are perfect for this look as the majority of them are smudge, crease & waterproof and add depth to eyeshadow.


Having said that not all gel liners are the same and Ive even found a huge contrast in liners from the same brand. Some glide on seamlessly and have intense colour while others either look dull or dry up the minute you twist the cap to open it! Below are my favourite and not so favourite liners.

Favourites:


MAC Fluideline in Blacktrack - my absolute favourite black gel liner. This product does exactly what its supposed to. It applies beautifully, gives you a real intense black finish and will not budge or smudge all day! 


Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner in Bronze Shimmer (not sure if this colour has been replaced with Chocolate Shimmer) - I LOVE THIS LINER!! I frequently use this to create an amazing brown smokey eye but it also makes a nice liner when you want a softer outline. 


Shu Uemura in G Silver- This is a lovely silver shimmer colour which is a nice alternative to a light liner. I like to use this product to highlight the inner eyes near the tear duct - just beautiful.


Not so favourite:

MAC Fluideline in Waveline - Bad, real bad if you thought this was going to give you a lovely blue colour. It applies quite transparent and you need layers to give you an intense colour. So disappointing as I love the colour.


Bobbi Brown and Shu Uemura in Black - my problem with both of these is their longevity. They dry out so quickly and they become unusable in a matter of no time.

One base - 3 lips!

Lip colour can make a world of difference to any ones makeup. Whether you select a lipstick, gloss, tint, pigment or even glitter it can totally change the outcome of the overall look.

Don't believe me? Below are some examples of how three different colours and even shapes (for fun!!) can look completely different. Remember I haven't changed anything else but the lip product. 


Before you go slapping your lipstick on PLEASE remember flaky dry lips are sooooo not attractive. For a quick do it yourself gentle lip exfoliate mix a little baking soda with some water and gently rub it over your lips.  Then smother on lip balm and let it do its job!!

MAC Cremesheen Gloss in Boy Bait

NARS Bloodwork lipgloss & MAC red glitter

Chanel Noir  Obscurs - Hysteria
MAC studio fix to block lips out.

Have fun with lipstick - there is a shade out there for everyone….if not 10!

Eyeliner

Over a delicious meal at Saloni in Richmond (I'm still dreaming of that lamb), I sat with my beautiful friend Olga and discussed eyeliner - because that's what we all do, right!?!


Eyeliner can be so much fun and there are many different products we can use with different ways to apply them! Gel liner, pencil, eyeshadow, liquid eyeliner are a few and remember they come in many colours so the possibilities are endless.


Confused? Hope this helps…..


Gel Liner - Gel liners are typically smudge proof/waterproof, so no panda eyes here! First time users may find it a little daunting to apply but with a bit of practice you'll perfect amazing flicks, lines and definition. Gel liners are my favourite by far, with the best being MAC Fluid Line or the Bobbi Brown Long Wear. And if that's not convincing enough, they can double up as an eye shadow. The only downfall is if you don't keep the jars airtight they often dry out.


Liquid Eyeliner - This form of eyeliner is similar to the gel but with the most obvious difference being its ink consistency and the applicator. As it is a liquid I find if you apply it and don't let it dry fully you may end up with rings around your eye. Don't let that discourage you, once again its just practice. I've had a Dior one which I've sworn by but Olga did mention she loved the Stila, so there are plenty of options.


Pencil - An all time favourite for most and a great bridal alternative. It has the ability to be softened and is very  easy to apply. I guess the main thing to look out for is the softness and colour depth of the pencil. I like to go over it with an angled brush to give it a smoother look. I have a million pencils but the ones that stand out for me are the Christian Dior for its creamy consistency and staying power and  the Estee Lauder Double Wear.


Eyeshadow - Who would have thought!! Yes, eyeshadow on top of any of the above, when properly applied gives amazing depth, colour and staying powder. Applied alone, with an angled brush it gives a soft finish that can be reapplied and blended. Truly try this technique as it gives a lovely finish. 

                                 Photographer: The talented Shamim de Varax


Here's some fun I had with eyeliner on a shoot . See, it can be fun and remember to experiment with colour!!!