Because the recession isn't recessing any time soon, I don't usually advocate purchasing entire makeup collections. I understand that, for most, money is tight...so I usually highlight certain items as must-have additions to your beauty arsenal. But in the case of Stila's new collection for spring 2010, Dust to Diamonds, I can't choose.
I'm a sucker for sparkles, and this collection had me at "bling." Seriously, if Stila had't furnished me with samples to review, I would have paid my own cash money for these products. That's how fantabulous they are. Since I first tested the collection two weeks ago, I've worn at least one of the products every day since.
I'm a sucker for sparkles, and this collection had me at "bling." Seriously, if Stila had't furnished me with samples to review, I would have paid my own cash money for these products. That's how fantabulous they are. Since I first tested the collection two weeks ago, I've worn at least one of the products every day since.
Top: Yumberry Crush Lip & Cheek Stain; Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner
Middle: Jewel Eye Shadow Palette
Bottom: Jewel Lip Glaze Trio
To purchase the entire collection would run you $132, which isn't all that bad. But if your makeup fund is maxed out, here are my individual reviews - so you can decide what you need now (and what can wait til later).
Jewel Eye Shadow Palette ($32): "This high-tech eye shadow formula creates a glittering wave of sequin-like sparkle, leaving your eyes glistening like jewels." These really aren't the shadows you'll be applying in the AM before work; more likely, this is the palette you'll reach for in the evening to kick it up a notch and create a truly glitterrific effect. The formula is a blend of pigment and pearl, and the coverage is buildable - so don't worry that these shadows will take you into drag queen territory...unless that's the look you're going for. Shades include Rose Quartz (light pink with silver sparkle), Amethyst (gray aubergine with champagne sparkle), Black Diamond (black with silver sparkle) and Golden Topaz (champagne shimmer with silver and gold sparkle).
Jewel Lip Glaze Trio ($32): "Sprinkle stardust on the lips with this trio of glistening glosses infused with Stila Gem Complex, a blend of Diamond, Emerald, Jade, Ruby, Moonstone, Rose Quartz, Sapphire, Topaz, Amethyst, Amber, Garnet, Mother of Pearl, Opal and Alexandrite. Mango Seed Butter, Goa Seed Butter and Shea Butter keep lips moisturized all day. The formula seamlessly glides on the lips leaving a celestial wave of sequin reflections." Okay, if you're a gal who believes that glitter makes everything better, this should be your first purchase. Likewise, if you're a lipgloss lover. At first glance, these glosses are verrrrry glittery; even I was a little hesitant about trying them. But I found the glitter content to be Goldilocks perfect (not too much, not too little)...and the formula felt smooth, not gritty. The shades are more sheer on the lips than in the tube - so don't let the concentrated color fool you. Shades include Pink Diamond (pink with pink sparkles), Amethyst (deep plum with gold and red sparkles) and Golden Topaz (warm amber with pink sparkles).
Black Diamond Mascara ($24): Not only does this mascara beautifully plump and lengthen your lashes, it imparts a subtle little shimmer shimmah. Available in Black Shimmer (black with silver shimmer) and Blue Shimmer (black with blue shimmer).
Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner ($20): "Marker-sharp precision and a true carbon black pigment, this waterproof liquid liner glides on easily without pulling, smudging, or running. Color stays in place all day long." This eyeliner is amazing. It draws razor thin and thick lines. The shade is inky black...and, as the name suggests, the formula ain't coming off until you're ready to take it off. If I was purchasing from this collection, the Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner would be my first buy.
Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner ($20): "Marker-sharp precision and a true carbon black pigment, this waterproof liquid liner glides on easily without pulling, smudging, or running. Color stays in place all day long." This eyeliner is amazing. It draws razor thin and thick lines. The shade is inky black...and, as the name suggests, the formula ain't coming off until you're ready to take it off. If I was purchasing from this collection, the Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner would be my first buy.
Though not technically a part of Stila's spring 2010 collection, I would be remiss if I didn't mention Yumberry Crush Lip & Cheek Stain ($24). At first, I was very skeptical that the pearly pink shade would compliment my cappuccino complexion. But once I blended the sheer blush into my cheeks and lips, it gave me a believable snow bunny glow. I mean, you could go outside in the cold and wait until you can't feel your face...or you can pick up this clickable pen and apply the berry scented gel for a yummy, fresh-faced flush.
