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      I Got to Preview the Nordstrom Sale—Here’s Everything I Tried On

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      Nordstrom’s 2020 Anniversary Sale has officially kicked off, and it’s time to prioritize what we’re vying to add to our carts before items begin selling out (the rush!).While the sale looks a little different this year, it’s chock-full of its usual fabulous pieces that can be worn year in and year out (with the addition of plenty of cozy options to get us through this winter in isolation). I was able to stop by Chicago’s Nordstrom store and (very, very safely) check out some of the things that are discounted this year. To absolutely no one’s surprise, my wish list grew by multiple pieces, and the entire experience reminded me just why this sale is so damn good. 
      These are the things I tried on, accompanied by plenty of opinions on everything from fit to feel. (Unless I state otherwise, I’m wearing a size small in everything.)

      Every year for the sale, Nordstrom releases that year’s version of this suede BlankNYC jacket (and the faux-leather one below). I bought this jacket last year and I truly wear it to death. I reach for it at least once a week, and the color paired with both light-wash and black denim is incredible for fall. If you’re only looking to buy one or two things, I absolutely couldn’t recommend this more. I know I’ll be wearing this for years to come.

      The same goes for this jacket. I bought mine four years ago during the sale and still wear it all the time when the temperatures are chilly (I actually own a much more expensive leather moto jacket as well and am always surprised to find myself reaching for this one just as much, if not more.) There is truly nothing bad you can say about it—it’s amazing quality (it doesn’t feel stiff or artificial like many faux-leather jackets can), the fit is perfect, and it can go with anything. It’s a fool-proof buy.

      This blazer was one of the first things that caught my eye in the sale, and it did not disappoint. It’s the perfect oversized option to wear all fall and winter long, and the length and fit are ultra-flattering. If I didn’t already own so many blazers, this would be a no-brainer purchase for me.

      This is something I hadn’t seen online, but when I saw it in-store, I couldn’t wait to try it on. This is an amazing basic to add to your cart during the sale. It’s thin enough that it can be worn under jackets or your parka without sweating to death, but the subtle puffy sleeves and higher neck make it exciting enough to wear on its own too. I generally wear a size small, but I am wearing an extra small here, and it fits perfectly.

      This year, Nordstrom added tons of cozy items to the sale, all of which are perfect to stock up on for the long, quarantined winter ahead—and this sweater is no exception. It is incredibly soft and is perfect to invest in if you want a few loungewear items that feel more like real clothes for work-from-home days.

      I had my eye on this fun, sherpa North Face jacket, and it was even cozier in person. I could see myself wearing this all. the. time. It’s like the North Face jacket I had in middle school but adult and chic and strikes that perfect, mid-warmth level of jacket that you need for October and November.

      I can’t say I’ve ever tried a pair of ponte paints on before, but this pair made me kick myself for having never picked up some for work. They are exactly the same consistency as a legging but look like a real, sophisticated trouser. Paired with any color of sweater and a pair of booties, these could be a perfect fall uniform (and dare I say they’re comfortable enough that I could actually see myself wearing them to work from home).

      As we’ve established about a million times before, I love a puffy sleeve, so I couldn’t have gotten my hands on this faster. I found this super flattering and, again, unique enough that I could throw it on with jeans and feel like I’m actually wearing a real outfit. This material is super soft, and I love the shade to have a winter white moment.

      I never have shopped the athletic wear during the sale, so this year I made a point to try some out. Everything I have on here is Zella, and boy, it was good. This jacket is one of my top priorities to buy during the sale—it is so thick and flattering and is one of those things I always wish I owned. This higher-necked sports bra is also incredible—super easy to be paired with some high-waisted leggings and worn as a top. And lastly, these are fool-proof black leggings. All of these items are hyped for a reason: they’re amazing quality, and since athletic wear hardly goes on sale, this is the time to get them.

      I snagged this cropped Topshop sweater with visions of wearing it with leggings to work from home in mind, and it didn’t disappoint me. It’s super soft and I love that it’s cropped but not too cropped. It’s a perfect opportunity to swap out some old sorority sweatshirts for an option that’s a little more adult.
      These sweatpants are one of the most unique materials I have ever felt—they literally feel like a legging turned into a pant. I felt very put-together in them, which is something sweatpants don’t ordinarily make you feel. 

      I’ve been dying to try this style of Levi’s for a while. They’re pegged as a wider fit than a classic straight leg, which I was excited about for my legs that are prone to making a straight fit look more like a skinny. Oh man, did I love these. They’re very high waisted, which I was worried about as I have a shorter torso, but I was obsessed with the fit from the second I put them on. These are, dare I say, the jeans of my dreams. 10/10, one of the things I will absolutely be purchasing. More

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      People Are Sleeping Less in Quarantine—Here Are Our Favorite Concealers to Pretend We Are

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      This season of life has come with a lot of surprise challenges. Who knew I’d stay up all night listening to Taylor Swift for days on end? Or that I’d learn the problem with my finances all this time was actually me going out to eat every other day? But the most surprising of all is that even though I spend the most time at home as ever, I get significantly less sleep. And I know I’m not the only one! The Sleep Foundation explained that everything from raised anxiety to changes to daily life to extra screen time can cause our sleep to decrease in length and quality. So we know we’re not sleeping, and while there are definitely a few healthy, natural ways to get that under control, you know my style: I’ll show you how to Band-Aid the problem for a little bit. What better way to hide all the sins of yesterday than concealer!? Until you can get those glorious few hours of sleep, these will save you for any shopping trip, meeting, or virtual happy hour you have planned—and they’ll do it without looking cakey, dry, or heavy on your face. Here are our favorites (and a reader-favorite!): 

      Best for dry skin:

      UOMA Beauty
      Stay Woke Luminous Brightening Concealer

      If concealers typically make you feel parched under the eyes after a few hours, you need a creamy formula that keeps its moisture all day long, and Uoma’s Stay Woke concealer does just that. It’s hydrating right from the start and blends seamlessly into your skin or any foundation you might have underneath it. The creaminess doesn’t take away from the coverage though, so you’ll be sure to cover up those dark circles in a cinch.

      Best for oily skin:

      Shape Tape Concealer

      As someone with dry under eyes, I never found love with this concealer, but I can see how it would be an absolute dream for oily skin (and also, it’s one of the top-selling concealers in the world, so maybe it’s me!). When I’ve used it on the parts of my complexion that get oily, it stays put all day long and doesn’t move, which is exactly what you want in a concealer. It boasts full-coverage, all-day wear that causes minimal creasing.

      Best for high-coverage:

      Juvia’s Place
      I Am Magic Concealer

      Of all the concealers on this list, this ranks as the highest coverage. If you’re rocking deep, dark circles, this will be your saving grace. However, the high-coverage doesn’t result in cakey or dry under eyes either. Instead, you’ll notice a smooth canvas that barely needs set with a powder. Coming in at 24 shades, you’re bound to find one that works best with your skin tone.

      Reader and editor-favorite:

      Radiant Creamy Concealer

      This concealer is basically makeup royalty. It’s in the makeup bag of most celebrities, beauty editors, and normal people alike. Our editor Maddie once said it best in our annual empties: “It’s super natural looking while still giving the perfect amount of coverage, and never creases or looks dry (even on my crazy-dry skin). I’ve been loving putting a little of this under my eyes and on blemishes when I work from home to put a little put-together and awake. I love that I can wear it on its own without it ever looking like I’m obviously wearing concealer. This was an obvious re-purchase for me—I’ll never be without it.”

      Best at the drugstore:

      Conceal + Perfect Longwear Concealer

      This isn’t the first time I’ve raved about this concealer. It’s my favorite concealer I’ve ever found at the drugstore, and I think it’s ideal for all skin types. It has a natural matte finish, but don’t let that deter you dewy girls: it still looks gorgeous and natural when paired with your favorite dewy moisturizers, foundations, and highlighters. I love this all over my face to spot conceal as well because the coverage is amazing and it blends out to look just like my skin. At under $10, go ahead and buy your summer and winter shade.

      Best splurge:

      Armani Beauty
      Power Fabric Concealer

      I know this one is a little on the pricey side, but I couldn’t leave it out because it’s basically the only concealer I’ve worn the past five months. It is everything you want in a concealer: light, natural, hydrating, creaseless, and blendable. The price might put an ache in your neck for a second, but you only have to use a little bit so the concealer goes a long way. I also use it as a foundation sometimes, and that is absolutely *chef’s kiss*. I feel a little fancy and extra confident every time I use it, and that’s worth double the price to me!

      Most long-wearing:

      Fenty Beauty
      Pro Filt’r Instant Retouch Concealer

      Fenty Beauty has to make its way into basically any roundup because the products are truly made for everyone. I could have given this “Best Shade Range” or “Best for Special Occasions” or “Best for All Skin Types,” but the magic of this concealer lies in its staying power. Dab it on the under eyes and without setting it, it lasts hours upon hours. If you set it (ideally with the Fenty powder, which I can vouch for, and it’s one of the best!), it’s over for your under eyes. Dark circles who? Never met her. This concealer has all the properties of those above, but how long it lasts without creasing or separating is what makes it stand out. If you have a hard time with concealers rubbing off on you, try this. More

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      18 Outfits That Prove Sneakers Go With Everything

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      Let me take a stab in the dark here: you currently have at least one pair of sneakers on your shoe rack. Maybe they’re the least exciting item in your closet, or maybe you love them for going on walks or running errands, but they’re not your go-to fashion accessory. However, I’d like to make a case that sneakers are potentially the most fashionable item in your closet because they go with everything.Think about it: they make any preppy look cooler or any fancy outfit more casual, and they work for every season. Plus, they’re super comfortable, which means no hobbling around in high heels or patching up blisters (because nothing’s more fashionable than a confident strut). Still unsure if sneakers go with everything? Here are 18 reasons that prove they do. Copy these ridiculously stylish outfit formulas for your next sneaker #OOTD. 

      1. With a maxi skirt and graphic tee
      Source: @hikarimurakami

      Think you can’t pair athletic sneakers with flowy and feminine pieces? Think again. A classic sneaker is the perfect pair of shoes to wear with a maxi skirt that hits just above the ankle. Pair with a slightly oversized graphic tee for a casual-cool look from head to toe (that also happens to be crazy comfortable).

      2. With a midi skirt and crop top
      Source: @menzabolamba

      Trust me: I go on Pinterest a lot. One of the most popular Pinterest outfits (and my personal favorite)? A silky midi skirt, a pair of white sneakers, and a cropped tank (bonus points for a knotted detail). When the temperatures start to drop and we officially hit fall weather, throw on a denim jacket for an outfit formula you’ll want to wear for months. 

      3. With your favorite workout ensemble
      Source: @sarahmian

      Sneakers and leggings go together like peanut butter and jelly. Obviously, the athletic shoe was originally designed for exactly that: athletics. It’s a no-brainer to wear the coolest pair of sneakers you have with your favorite workout-wear. To make it more #OOTD-worthy, think of incorporating interesting details like mesh or bright colors in subtle spots throughout the ensemble. 

      4. With a silk midi dress
      Source: @chloepierreldn

      I never thought I’d see the day, but old-school sneakers, a silky midi dress, and dad socks (“dad socks” are a thing right?) officially go together perfectly. A luxurious fabric like silk or satin (bonus points for a thigh-high slit!) balance out the retro look of sneakers. 

      5. With a classic button-up and trouser shorts
      Source: @seeratsaini_

      What do you wear for workdays (at the office or home) when it’s just too hot for trousers, but you still want to look professional? The answer: trouser shorts and a crisp, lightweight button-up. Luckily for us (and our walking commutes), a pair of white sneakers make the look more business-casual and stylish. 

      6. With an A-line mini skirt and tee 
      Source: @juliesfi

      If Blair Waldorf wore sneakers, this is how she would do it. Grab the chicest plaid skirt in your closet (any flap pockets, buttons, or attached belts would be ideal, thank you), and pair with a simple tee and lace-up sneakers. Blair would be so proud (headband optional). 

      7. With a maxi dress
      Source: @lvernon2000

      You get the point: long hemlines are perfect with casual sneakers. In fact, it’s kind of the ideal way to make maxi dresses more casual without going too boho (if that’s not your style). Try a maxi in a bright color (like this of-the-moment citrus shade) and pair with crisp, white sneakers. 

      8. With turtleneck and your favorite work pants
      Source: @marintia_goto_williams

      Sometimes, pretty dresses and feminine skirts just won’t cut it (or just aren’t your style). Luckily for the menswear-inspired pieces that are staples in our closets, chunky and athletic sneakers look just as cool with a pair of straight-leg trousers as they look pretty with a skirt or dress. Think: Annie Hall, reimagined for 2020. Don’t be afraid to go bold with your sneaker choice, while keeping the rest of the outfit simple and tailored. 

      9. With a blazer and ladylike accessories
      Source: @lydiajanetomlinson

      It’s like your grandma’s wardrobe just got much more stylish; lace-up sneakers even out the elegance of fitted blazers, quilted purses, and gold jewelry. When it comes to fashion, opposites certainly attract, and the perfect example is piling on your most elegant pieces with a basic gym shoe to make the ensemble more Instagram-cool and less country-club-chic. Pair with our favorite go-to, the silky midi skirt. 

      10. With leather trousers and pops of color
      Source: @thekittyluxe

      You might have seen on your Instagram feed or favorite fashion magazine that faux leather is in. However, in 2020, faux leather is no longer reserved for a basic jacket. Instead, fashion girls are wearing the faux fabric in reimagined pieces like trousers and waistband pants. Thankfully (for the comfort of our feet and the purpose of this article) they pair perfectly with white sneakers. Throw on a jacket or sweater in a pop of color for the perfect fall look. 
       
       
      11. With your favorite printed blouse and pants rolled at the ankle
      Source: @kat.shearer

      You know those dad sneakers that are so in style, but you have no idea how to wear them? This outfit is proof that you can wear your chunkiest dad sneakers with just about anything, including some rolled-up trousers and your favorite floral blouse. Try matching the color of the shoes to the color palette of the blouse, like this muted beige, above. 

      12. With a cropped sweater and wide-leg pants
      Source: @sopharsosnaps

      Add sneakers to the list of shoes you can wear with wide-leg pants (anyone who owns wide-leg pants knows this list is limited). Just make sure the hem hits slightly above the ankle to elongate the body and keep a fitted silhouette up top to balance out the width of the pants. If it’s still 90 degrees where you are, wear with a tank top or bodysuit, and transition into fall and winter months with a cozy cropped sweater.

      13. With boyfriend jeans and a distressed jacket
      Source: @sincerelyjules

      I used to think that baggier pieces had to be paired with feminine pieces or fitted silhouettes to look stylish (it’s all about balance, you know?). But against all odds, this look proves that slouchy boyfriend jeans, oversized tees, and distressed jackets can all work in harmony. Is it because she’s rocking a killer pony, or is it because sneakers are magical? Either way, it’s working. Try playing around with glam jewelry (like these chandelier earrings) to make the look more intentional than I-woke-up-like-this. 

      14. With a feminine dress and bold accessories
      Source: @newtexacali

      If you’re interested in trying a bold trend (like a bucket hat, zebra print, or both), sneakers are the perfect way to test it out. Think about it: they’re as basic, neutral, and universal as it gets. They can make an #extra trend more casual and a bold trend more low-key. Pair with an easy, breezy dress and get ready to rock the trend you never knew you could pull off. 

      15. With distressed jeans and a trench coat
      Source: @fashion_jackson

      Sneakers are not just the perfect summer shoe. They can also flawlessly transition into fall. Wear sneakers like a Parisian with distressed denim and a chic trench coat for a go-to outfit formula that’s as Instagram-worthy as it is appropriate when the temperatures start to drop. 

      16. With white jeans and a floor-length cardigan
      Source: @crystalinmarie

      Yes, sneakers also go with the iconic Everygirl favorite, white jeans. A floor-length cardigan is not only the coziest item we own (it’s like wearing a blanket, but it’s chicer than a Snuggie!), but can update any sneakers and white jeans outfit for fall. 

      17. With your favorite stay-at-home sweatpants, crop top, and a jacket
      Source: @kayla_seah

      Maybe you’re tired of wearing sweatpants by now, or maybe sweatpants feel like second-skin after wearing them for five months straight. Either way, at least staying at home has brought us a style trend we can get behind: sweatpants as high-fashion. Pair with a cropped top and toss on a blazer to look stylish whether you’re bingeing Netflix or on a Zoom call. 

      18. With head-to-toe white
      Source: @taylasnts

      Though we’re big fans of following the rules in 2020 (wear a mask!!), the one we’re partial to breaking? No white after labor day. We love white as a year-round color, and this monochrome look is the perfect example. Pair your whitest sneakers with white jeans and a basic tee (even after August), or replace with a cozy white knit when transitioning into fall temperatures. No matter what season we’re in, a good pair of sneakers will always have our backs. 

      SHOP OUR FAVORITES

      What’s your favorite way to wear white sneakers? More

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      All the Fashion Pieces Under $50 That We Love RN

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      Is anyone else online shopping as a sport right now? It’s like scouring the internet for discounts and finding secret gems on Amazon have become my hobbies, since rewatching Riverdale for the third time in a row is starting to get old (I take that back, Jughead. I’ll never get tired of you!). Here’s the thing: sometimes we want a little pick-me-up in the form of a blouse we’ve been eyeing or luxurious sweater we’ll want to live in. But that doesn’t mean any of us should (or can) pay the hefty price tag that quickly racks up when online shopping. So instead, I’m sharing the pieces I’m obsessing over RN, each under $50 (yes, you read that right). Whether you’re looking for trendy #OOTD upgrades, pieces that will transition your wardrobe into fall, or comfortable basics that are a little bit softer (and cuter) than the sweatpants you’ve been wearing for months, opt for items that are as affordable as they are adorable. Shop everything we’re obsessed with right now, all for less than the price of your weekly Trader Joe’s run. 

      Of-the-Moment Trends For Less

      Summer-to-Fall Transition Pieces

       
      Updated Loungewear

        More

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      The Best Lightweight Foundations on the Market

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      When the first blemishes sprouted upon my face in the mere fifth grade, I started stealing my mom’s concealer to cover them up. About a year and many, many zits later, my mom suggested I get a foundation to “dry out my skin.” Soon after, I got a foundation at the drugstore and never looked back. My skin preferences for the first almost-decade I wore makeup were as follows: heavy, thick, full-coverage, drying, matte. If you’ve ever listened to me talk about makeup before (I hope!), you’ll know I, and the rest of our editors here, basically despise any combination of any of those when it comes to our faces. And thankfully, the makeup industry finally agrees! Makeup doesn’t have to be sticky and gross all day long, and the handful of launches from the last year have proved it. Everything from light-coverage foundations to tinted moisturizers and CC creams to skin tints have made their way into my vanity at this point, and I figured it was mighty time to break them down.
      And it’s not just a summer trend either—we’re definitely going to keep seeing lighter coverage as a preference amongst makeup artists and regular people alike. I mean, who needs a heavy foundation when they’re wearing a mask that covers half of their face? (One could argue we don’t need foundation at all or ever—to which I agree, but if you like to add a little somethin’-somethin’, that’s cool too!) Even as the summer heat departs and cool air emerges, we’re looking at a smooth canvas that doesn’t feel sticky, heavy, or uncomfortable. And here, we’re sharing our favorites for all skin types, shades, and preferences.

      Skin Tints
      A skin tint is the most light-coverage of the bunch, often even leaning toward “sheer” coverage. These won’t cover your gnarly period acne, and that’s OK! They’re some of the most comfortable and (obviously) natural-looking skin products on the market. They’ll make you look extra glowy and hydrated. Plus, these have the least transfer (since they’re more minimal coverage), so you can say goodbye to maskne and masks full of makeup by the end of the day (or your 30-minute run to the grocery store).

      Perfecting Skin Tint

      This is basically the skin tint to beat all skin tints if you ask me. It’s very low-coverage, but there’s a reason it’s still a Glossier best-seller after all this time. Your skin looks exactly like your skin, only better.

      Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40 Foundation

      I’m starting off with quite a bang here because this definitely has a lot of coverage for a skin tint. It’s similar to a favorite of mine below (this is how I keep ‘em reading) in that it’s kind of a mix between a serum and a foundation; all the lightness of a serum with the coverage of a foundation. It goes on smooth and even, and you only need a little to cover your entire face because it’s very spreadable like a serum. This makes the high price tag seem much more worth it! It’s the perfect “threw it on in the morning before work, but touched up with a concealer for happy hour” situation. Buy this if you like medium-coverage without feeling like you’re wearing medium-coverage on your face.

      Charlotte Tilbury
      Hollywood Flawless Filter

      While this isn’t marketed as a foundation, in the summer, I like to use it as such when I want to look glowy as all hell. I’ll apply it all over with a sponge and call it a day! It’s probably a little much for some, but it’s been an obsession of mine all summer long to look like I’m basically radiating through the screen in Zoom meetings. Note: the shade range is trash if you look at it like a foundation, but I find it to be pretty good as a highlighter. This doesn’t really add any color, mostly just sheen and glow, so there is some leeway in what shade you can use. My shade ranges quite a bit between winter and summer, and shade #4 works for me basically all year round!

      Tinted Moisturizer
      These are the next in the coverage category; however, some really do pack a punch. These feel light on the skin, but they’re more likely to even out your skin tone and cover up redness than the latter options. You’ll notice maybe a little transfer in your mask, but nothing you can’t get out with a trusty Tide To-Go. 

      Pretty Fresh Hyaluronic Skin Tint

      I ordered this after our Editorial Assistant Jess had raved about it to me the two months of 2020 we actually spoke IRL. (Ah, the good times!) And I’m here to say I love it too! It’s very light and stays on all day, even through the sweat and humidity below my mask (and LOL, the rest of my face, let’s be honest). Colourpop’s website has a really helpful shade finder too which made it easy to make a purchase without going into a store!

      Bare Minerals
      Complexion Rescue Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30

      I’ve talked about this tinted moisturizer for a while. I started using it on heavy rotation at the beginning of March, and I used it basically the entire three months of quarantine just about every single day. It gave me just a hint of coverage so I felt better and more put-together while I was working without making my skin feel gross at the end of the day. Would buy over and over again.

      Maracuja Hydrating Tinted Moisturizer

      Of the three of these, I would say this has the least amount of coverage, but perhaps the glowiest end result. This came out right before summer, and I’d call it a perfect summertime foundation. It’s light and natural and lets your natural skin show through. This also has a great shade range for a tinted moisturizer!

      Laura Mercier
      Tinted Moisturizer Natural Skin Perfector Broad Spectrum SPF 30

      How could I write a roundup on tinted moisturizers without referencing quite possibly the most famous one in the world? This is a staple in makeup artists’ kits for a few reasons. Firstly, the shade range is quite inclusive, boasting 20 shades (which feels about average now, but pre-Fenty Beauty days, 20 shades for even a full-coverage foundation range was a lot *eye roll*). But quite possibly the best part of this product is that although it has quite a lot of coverage for a tinted moisturizer, it’s incredibly lightweight and natural on your skin. Very “your skin, but better” vibes.

      Lightweight Foundations
      And lastly, we have the light foundations. These have a good amount of coverage (some more than others—will explain below!) without all the heaviness and transfer of a typical foundation. Again, you might notice a little transfer, but nothing you can’t get out in the wash. These are great for Zoom meetings, more “special” occasions, and basically anywhere you want a little extra coverage. 

      The Lip Bar
      Skin Serum Foundation

      This on-the-go foundation is friendly for all skin types. So if you lean on the more combo/oily end of the spectrum or just prefer a satin or natural skin finish over some extra dew on your face, this is a great choice. The component is effortless: simply click the bottom, and the foundation comes through the brush at the top. Another way I’ve seen people use this is applying it on their hand from the brush and then blending with a Beauty Blender to make it even more natural and sheer.

      Tinted Oil Foundation

      This is one of my favorite skin purchases of the last year. It’s unlike anything I’ve ever tried. It’s a mix between a face oil and a foundation; it applies like a skincare oil but with coverage basically. And it’s phenomenal. My best skin days come when I’m wearing this all over my face. It’s everything I could ever want in a foundation: light, glowy, light-to-medium-coverage, and natural. I will never be without this.

      Plain Jane Beauty
      Get Loose Powder Foundation

      Light coverage doesn’t have to come from a liquid! This is obviously oily-skin-friendly, but reviews say it’s light enough that it looks gorgeous on dry skin as well. A powder is a great way to add a little coverage to your face without going overboard. This can be built up to a more full-coverage depending on the brush you use, which makes the product a pretty good bang for its buck—it’s almost like getting a couple different foundations in one! Use a fluffy brush for something light, or buff it on with a dense duo-fiber brush. More

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      This Product Made Me Throw Out All My Makeup Wipes

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      If there’s one thing I’m an absolute sucker for, it’s skincare. If it promises glowing, even skin, I’ll try getting tiny needles rolled into my face or washing my face with honey; and if a new product is released with stellar reviews? Well, sign me up.But the one skincare trend I never got into? Double cleansing.
      Double cleansing came onto the scene a few years ago with glowing reviews from just about everyone who has ever worn makeup. It was touted as the most sure-fire way to make sure every last stitch of makeup was removed from your face without stripping it dry. Its appeal is evident, but for whatever reason, I never got into it. I swear by my Clarisonic and figured that that did the job—but to my absolute dismay, it turns out I was wrong.
      To double-cleanse, the rules are pretty simple: first, wash your face with an oil-based cleanser or cleansing balm, then follow with your regular, water-based cleanser. Beginning with an oil-based cleanser ensures that your makeup is melted off before you wash your face, leaving it squeaky-clean in the best way possible. But honestly, said cleansers felt like they cost more money than necessary, and when push came to shove, I removed my makeup before my water-based cleanser with a good ole’ makeup wipe.
      But then our resident beauty guru, Beth, gave me the recommendation to try the Good Molecules Instant Cleansing Balm. She promised that it would change my face-washing game, but the biggest selling point is that it runs at the same price as a couple of Starbucks orders—so I figured, what’s to lose?

      The first time I used this, I immediately regretted every night of my previous life, which included face-washing that I thought was adequate, but so clearly was not. Upon rubbing a pea-sized amount of this onto my face, my full face of makeup—foundation, bronzer, mascara, eyebrow pencil—had literally melted off. At first, I looked like this picture of Mulan’s Matchmaker, but a quick once-over with water made it all disappear. After my second cleanse, my face felt the cleanest it ever has, without the dried-out feeling that makeup wipes are known to cause (my face is incredibly dry, so it’s been reaping the benefits of this ever since).
      I’ve continued using this product every night after I’ve worn makeup for about a month now, and it has continued to get a 5/5 star rating from me. Whether I’m wearing super natural, no-makeup makeup or a full face for my socially-distanced birthday, it leaves my skin as soft and clean as a baby’s. Not only is this better for my skin than my previously-loved makeup wipes, but it’s better for the environment too, and given I’ve hardly made a dent in the tub over the past month, I’d guess this is much more cost-effective as well—it’s a win-win-win. Also, my skin has been less irritated than ever, and I have infinitely less clogged pores—and since I changed nothing else in my routine, I’d chalk it up to this.
      Never did I think I’d have a cleansing balm holy grail, but this has made its way onto my top shelf, and it’s here to stay.

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