Starter Makeup Kit from Sephora

Recently I have been getting a lot of messages asking which products are the best to build a basic makeup kit. Here are my favorites that will help you master a perfect look, day or night!

I’ve also included a few pro tips on how to apply products and how to get your makeup to last all night!

To make shopping easier, all of these products are available through Sephora!

SIMPLE MAKEUP STARTER KIT  

ONE 

Benefit Gimme Brow is the easiest, most fool-proof way to fill in your brows! I love the easy to use wand which is packed with a fiber-gel that will shape, define and fill in your brows for a natural, realistic look.

TWO 

Too Faced Soleil Bronzer has been a staple in my professional kit for years. It is a gorgeous matter bronzer (no shimmer or sparkle here!) that is never orange. Plus it smells like chocolate.

THREE

If you follow my blog or my Instagram/Facebook you probably have seen me rave about this tinted moisturizer before. Years after first discovering this product I am still loving it. Laura Mercier’s lightweight, oil free tinted moisturizer is a great alternative to foundation. It feels fresh on the skin, plus it has SPF 20!

FOUR

If you are searching for a new foundation I would suggest you try out Luminous Silk by Armani! This is unlike traditional “heavy” foundation formulas– it is lightweight, buildable and doesn’t crack, dry out or look chalky. The end result of a few thin layers is a gorgeous “airbrushed” dewy finish. I love applying this foundation with a damp beauty blender.

FIVE 

Urban Decay’s setting spray should be the last step you take when applying makeup. It will ensure that your artistry stays put even through heat and sweat. If you’re still using that old “hairspray” trick (you know who you are!!) use this instead. It is much better for your skin! This is also a staple in my pro kit– I can’t be without it!

SIX 

There is nothing worse than mastering the perfect eye look… and then have your shadow creasing after just a few hours. Using an eye primer will help your shadow go on smoother, more vibrant and last much longer. I love Urban Decay’s formula because it is not drying or chalky. Whenever you apply shadow be sure to PRIME with this product FIRST.

SEVEN

The secret to preventing foundation from settling into fine lines is to first use a primer designed for large pores and/or fine lines (I like this one from Makeup Forever). After you prime your entire face, apply foundation and THEN SET IT with a translucent setting powder. I love the texture and finish of Laura Mercier’s Translucent Loose Powder. It looks white but it goes on sheer and will work on all skin tones. Apply with a fluffy brush or a powder puff.

EIGHT 

I have purchased several of this concealers in 2015 and I am positive I will be purchasing more in the coming year! I love this creamy, easy to blend formula from NARS. It not only covers and conceals dark circles but it is wonderful for highlighting. Be sure to SET your concealer with powder (mentioned above in number seven) to prevent creasing and settling into fine lines.

NINE

Speaking of highlighting! Some days all you’ll want to wear is concealer and mascara (note- I didn’t include mascara here because I find that drugstore brands are just as wonderful as anything you can get in Sephora. Try this one and I promise you will think the same!). Other times you’ll want to be full on GLAM. That is where this product comes into play. I am obsessed with Becca highlighters but this shade in particular is so gorgeous. It is a cross between a rose gold and a moonstone. Apply a little bit top the top of your cheeks, nose, chin and cupid’s bow for a “lit from within” glow.

TEN

Blush can sometimes seem intimidating. Where to apply? Which brush to use? Is that hot pink really going to look good on me? Not to worry– NARS blush is easy to apply and the shades are super complimentary. Orgasm, Sin and Dolce Vita are some of my favorites. Apply with an angled blush brush.

ELEVEN 

I have mentioned this Tarte palette on STYLEgloss once before. Can you tell I love it?? The shades are all you need to create daytime, nighttime, natural and dramatic looks. All of the shadows are matte, which will make blending much easier. The middle row contain four of my all-time most favorite colors to use on eyes. This is the only palette you will ever need. Apply shadow in the crease with a fluffy brush and shadow on the lid with a stiffer, flat brush.

TWELVE 

Finally, top it all off with a great lip color! I love these Sephora lip creams. They last all day, are not drying and are only $14! Numbers 5, 13 an 14 are my personal favorites.

Do you have a product from Sephora that you love? Let me know about it!

#STYLEglossblog

My favorite makeup products of 2015!

Here are most favorite makeup products of 2015! A mix of stand-by staples and new additions have made the list, and I am sure you will love them as well. Whether you are still searching for the perfect gift or want to create a fabulous New Years Eve look, these products are going to get the job done!

ONE 

Hands down the most beautiful foundation! A dewy formula allows it to lay gorgeously on the skin and give an airbrushed finished. A bit of an investment but worth it for special days/events.

TWO 

I have been suggesting this lip color all year long, and for a good reason! It is long-lasting and the color is the perfect shade of on-trend mauve. It happens to also look great on many different skin tones.

THREE

Loreal’s Infallible shadows are some of the drugstore’s most highly pigmented, high performing cosmetics. I love how smooth and creamy these powder shadows are. Iced Latte is my favorite shade right now, but they are all beautiful, rich metallic shades.

FOUR

NARS blush has been a staple in both my person and professional kit for years. My favorite shades include Orgasm (great for all skin tones), Deep Throat, and Angelika.

FIVE

A fluffy, full powder brush is a makeup-bag necessity! Use it for contouring, bronzer, setting powder or finishing powder. Sigma was one of my favorite brands to purchase brushes from in 2015.

SIX 

Marc Jacobs has managed to create a refreshing, hydrating primer that not only smoothes the skin but keeps it feeling fresh all day long. Makeup will stay on longer and your skin will look more youthful.

SEVEN

This is my current favorite palette. I have been suggesting this one to my clients for weeks now because the colors are neutral yet on trend. It makes a perfect gift for the makeup-lover in your life. The mix of mattes and shimmers will help them create countless looks.

EIGHT

Setting your foundation and concealer is key to extending the life and longevity of your handiwork. I love the feel of Laura Mercier’s translucent powder– so silky! It will prevent creasing and cracking and create a smoother surface for brush, bronzer and highlighter.

NINE

Speaking of highlighters… this is by FAR my absolute favorite. I just discovered it a few months ago and it has replaced my holy-grail highlighter in my pro kit. Perfect for that New Year’s Eve glow!

What makeup products have you used and reused all year long?

@STYLEglossblog or @StephanieLindaArtistry

Happy New Year!

SG Gift Guide: The Fashion-Obsessed

Here are a few of my favorite gift picks for the the fashion-lovers on your list!

ONE 

A true splurge gift, but so worth it! This stunning bag will be theirs for years to come. It is a fashion staple that will never go out of style.

TWO 

This Hourglass palette is the ultimate beauty indulgence. I love these highlighters and the subtle shimmer they give off.

THREE 

Leather leggings are a quick (and comfy) way to add a little edge to any outfit.

FOUR 

I am totally obsessed with these over-the-knee boots. They are a classic style that will be a fall/winter staple. Plus, they are only $108!

FIVE 

Super cool sunnies that are under $40? Yes, please! These all-season shades are perfect for anyone that loves a vintage look.

SIX 

Faux fur vests have taken up a considerable amount of real estate in my closet and I can’t say I hate it. They are an easy way to pull together an outfit- even something as simple as a long sleeve tee and jeans. This style is reversible so it is like giving (or getting!) two gifts in one.

SEVEN 

I can’t think of a more luxurious gift than these Christian Louboutin polishes. Sure, they are totally frivolous but so delicious, who could resist?

EIGHT 

Kendra Scott is one of my favorite brands to gift. It is hard to not love this delicate abalone pendant. It is perfect to wear everyday or layered with longer necklaces.

NINE

Rose? Yes way! Just a fun iPhone case for the woman that has it all.

Christmas Decor Tour

My favorite thing about Christmas is that you create this magical, beautiful world that you get to live in and enjoy for a few weeks! The softness of the lights combined wit the glitter accents and scent of pine from a fresh tree is heaven in your home.

This year I decorated two trees– one is an artificial simple pencil tree with poinsettias, plaid ribbon and just a few gold ornaments. The other is a fresh tree with a candy land theme.

TREE | PLAID RIBBON | TRIM  | ORNAMENTS 

BOW PILLOW | COUCH 

PEACE LETTERS | ANGEL | CANDLE STAND & WREATH

For a simple centerpiece I found inexpensive ornaments and ball fillers at Michael’s and put them in a circle tray with a silk floral arrangement I already had in.

I love picking a theme for my tree each year. Although it may sound expensive to buy new ornaments year after year it really isn’t! Make an investment in some good quality ball ornaments in both red/green/white and gold/silver/bronze. These are versatile and can be used for many themes. Shatter-proof sets are fairly inexpensive and can be purchased at the beginning of every season in nearly every store that stocks holiday decor. If you are lucky you may even be able to snag some on sale after the holidays! I have seen really great sets at Kmart, CVS and Michael’s.

Picks, ribbon and other fillers are inexpensive enough that you can repurchase for your theme each year. I throw my ribbon away after the holiday since I cut it for the exact length of my tree and each year we get a fresh one, so size will vary. If you have an artificial tree you can save your ribbon– just store in a place where it will not get flattened.  I have a set of picks I like to use no matter what theme I am doing (feathers, beaded, curly) and then I add in themed-picks. This year it was the peppermint balls, last year it was bronze leaves.

CUPCAKE ORNAMENT from above [they are from Fortunoff, couldn’t find them online]… SIMILAR 

Ribbon is the quickest way to make your tree look fuller and more festive. I use green pipe cleaners (yep— the kid’s craft kind!) to secure each piece of ribbon in place. Sure, it takes a little extra time but the results are worth it!

Just a note— wired ribbon is BEST for trimming a tree. It will bend easily and allow you to get that pretty “wave” effect that you see in my photos. It  is also easier to handle and work with.

Try this order to make tree-trimming easier: Lights, ribbon, picks/stems (these are also great to fill in a sparse tree), decorative ornaments (like my cupcakes above), basic ball ornaments, large filler balls (see above, bottom right hand corner) and finally thin picks or feathers at the top to create dimension.

Mirrors and mirrored furniture will make any space look wider and larger. This gem was a sale find at Pier 1 last year. I will never grow tired of it!

I keep these branches in my entryway all year long. The basin, which you can’t see here, is a copper oversized milk can that I found at a garage sale over the summer. You can use any milk can or vase to hold your branches. The birch and thinner branches are TJ Maxx finds. The glitter branches were $10 each at Pier 1. I couldn’t find them on the website for you but I am sure if you bring this photo into your local store they can help you find them. If you didn’t want to mix the real branches with the glitter you could just do ALL sparkly ones. This is how Pier 1 had them displayed and it was GORG!!!

GLITTER BRANCHES 

LARGE BALL FILLER | GLASS ORNAMENT [SIMILAR]

And finally my favorite ornament of the season— a reminder that in 2015 was the year we purchased our first home. Bonus, it fit the candy land theme of my second tree so well!

Wishing you a warm holiday that is filled with love, laughter, light and time spent with those you love the most!

From our home to yours,

The Paradiso Family

STEPHANIE – CHRIS – REMMINGTON

What I am loving right now!

It’s been a while, STYLEglossies! I took a week off from blogging for a super exciting reason; my husband and I bought our first house! As you can imagine, things are a little nuts right now. But not to worry, I will be back in full swing once my new office is set up. Be on the look out for photos of our new place along with lots of home decor and design posts!

Today I have six key pieces that will never go out of style– all great additions to your fall closet! Enjoy!

::ONE::

Laura Mercier Lip Glace in Bare Beige is my go to color for all seasons and reasons. It looks great by myself but can also be layered on top of your favorite lipstick. It is the perfect everyday gloss. 

::TWO::

Call me old-fashioned, but I still believe in notebooks. I write everything down (or else I would literally forget it ALL). This cute gold foil book is the perfect size to keep in your bag. You never know when inspiration might hit! 

::THREE::

I am seriously in LOVE with personalized jewelry. I already have an engraved disc necklace from S & D but I am itching to add this bar to my collection. I love the idea of adding your child’s name (or children’s initials), your wedding date or the coordinates of a special place. This is truly something that will NEVER become off trend. 

::FOUR::

The quest for a perfect poncho resumes each and every fall. I am always on the look out for one that doesn’t add too much bulk, goes with everything and can be worn multiple ways. This super affordable option (UNDER $40!!) from BP fits the bill. I love that you can wear it open or belt it for a sleeker. 

::FIVE::

There are two kinds of boots in this world. There are the cheapies that you snag on sale at places like Marshall’s and DSW. Those are the trendy, great buys you find when you are never looking for boots. And then there are THESE kind of boots. The kind that have the most AMAZING, buttery leather. The kind that make your heart literally skip a beat when you think about all the outfits you could wear with them. And then when you finally put your foot into a pair of said boots trumpets sing and you hand over your credit card, only to fall flat on the floor when the cashier tells you your total. Yep– these Vince Camuto beauties are NOT cheap, but they are also worth every penny. They are well made, comfy and timeless. Plus, they are just as soft and well made as other brands like Tory Burch (seriously, the leather is nearly the same), but cost half as much. So worth it!! You will wear them all season! 

::SIX::

I love a good canvas tote. They are easy to clean and will hold everything– and I mean everything! A great tote will hold your laptop when you are headed to Starbucks or it will make for an eco-friendly shopping bag when you are at the market. This one by Street Level happens to be stylish and functional- plus it comes in three color combos!  

#StellaDotStyle

Each time Stella & Dot introduces a new line of jewelry I basically drool and obsesses over my iPhone as I scroll through Insta looking at ways to style the new collection. Their Fall 2015 line is no exception. Here are my favorite stand-out pieces that I will be adding to my jewelry box this season. You can shop the entire site by clicking here or scroll down to directly shop my picks.

Make a major statement with the stunning Natalie Necklace. I love cobalt blue, especially for fall. Mix it with black for an unexpected, luxe look. This is a piece that will dress up all of your basics– everything from a LBD to a white tee.

There is no cooler look than a set of stacked rings. I have tons of sets but I sometimes shy away from wearing them. Not because I don’t LOVE the look– I just can’t stand the thickness of 4-5 bands stacked up on my (usually) swollen fingers. That is why I am OBSESSED with the Maylee Ring. It gives you the look of stacked bands but without all the bulk.

 I am a big believer in simple, delicate pieces. When you are in a rush to get ready you can easily mix and match no-fuss jewelry for an eclectic look. I also love layering, and I think the Bianca Lariat makes it so easy to tackle that trend. I am planning on picking this necklace up and wearing it with my monogrammed disc.

This Waverly Bag is everything! I love the contrast of the tan suede against the black leather. Plus, you can easily convert it to a larger cross body bag if you need a little extra space. Super chic and great for all seasons.

Another great layering piece! I love how rocker-chic the Legend Pendant is. I can see myself also layering this with the Bianca Lariat from above.

One thing that I love about Stella & Dot is that they donate to women’s cancer research annually. You can give back by purchasing this bracelet, which benefits the Noreen Fraser Foundation. From the S&D website: “From September 10th, 2015 until October 31st, 2015, Stella & Dot will donate 20% of the purchase price of eligible customer purchases of the Resilience Cuff, which constitutes our determination of all net proceeds for this item, to the Noreen Fraser Foundation.”

To purchase the Resilience Cuff, click here.

Which is your favorite?! Let me know! #STYLEglossblog.

Barn Jackets

Images c/o Pinterest. I do not own them.

A closet staple that I have always been keen on is the quilted barn jacket. It is a simple piece that is casual yet tailored enough to be styled so many different ways. You will get a ton of use out of this coat in both the fall and the spring. I can throw on some leggings, flats, a simple sweater and this jacket and look super pulled together without even trying. A barn jacket has become part of my unofficial fall “uniform” along with riding boots and blanket scarfs.

Here are a few of my personal picks for fabulous barn jackets for any budget.

Joan Rivers Quilted Barn Jacket, $69.12 [ON SALE]

 I have wanted to order this jacket many times but I keep resisting because I already have a black one that I love! But when I look at all of the bright color ways that this brand has to offer I can’t help but salivate.  I may have to just take advantage of the Labor Day sale price and order the Khaki. Or the red. Or both! You can’t beat the price!

Ralph Lauren Turnkey Barn Jacket, $84.90 [ON SALE!]

I love the pop of print from the lining! Perfect dressed up or down. Only available in size small right now, but if that is your size  you are in luck because this is a great price!

LL Bean Women’s Quilted Riding Jacket, $139 [FREE SHIPPING]

Don’t you love this color? Shown here in the Dark Ivy, this coat comes in five color ways and in both misses’ and petite sizing. It also fashionable and functional with a an insulated lining. Does’t it just look warm?

DKNY Knit Trim Quilted Jacket, $236 [FREE SHIPPING]

This variation of the barn jacket is great for curvy or hourglass figures. The belt will help to create a waist and maintain your shape while wearing this otherwise boxy style.

Burberry Diamond Quilted Jacket, $595

Perhaps the most iconic quilted jacket and a true super splurge! I have the older version of this coat and I have worn it so many times that it has paid for itself for sure. The tailoring on this jacket just hugs the body beautifully. If you are looking to treat yourself this should do the trick!

Which one are you picking up this weekend?! Tell me in the comments!

Buttoned Up!

As most of us celebrate the last few days of summer all I have on the brain is FALL! Some of you may think I am CRAY-CARY but this is the total norm for me.

When I worked in fashion we would buy seasons ahead of time. Purchasing prom gowns six months in advance meant that I pretty much mentally celebrated Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas and the first snow long before any of those things even happened. I was already thinking to the springtime when we had just barely made a dent into summer. Fashion thinks in the future. It was one of the most exciting things about my job— trying to predict the trends and what would be popular nearly a year in advance. But I digress… back to fall!

So here I am in the present day, sweating it out in my office (yes, I am indoors… but I promise I am only waiting for a client while I write this blog! I’ll head out into the sunshine in just a bit) dreaming of suede and crisp leaves. And maybe a #PSL or two, but they would have to be iced. Even I can’t drink hot coffee just yet!

If you grew up in the 90’s you probably have noticed that our beloved styles are making a major splash in current trends. I am loving that the button down skirt is back (I was ALL about the knee length denim button down)! A-line suede button skirts in rich fall hues have hit stores. Here are a few of my favorites and where you can pick them up without emptying your pocket…

Forever 21 Button Suede Skirt, $37.90 (three colors available!)

WetSeal Faux Suede Mini, $16.90 (free shipping over $25)

Express A-Line Suede Skirt, $49.90 (free shipping on orders $125+)

Charlotte Russe Scalloped Mini, $36.99 (40% off entire site! $22.20 with coupon!)

Kendall + Kylie for PacSun Suede Mini, $36.95 (free shipping on all orders)

What fall trends are you excited to wear? Let me know in the comments!

Need right now: Kendra Scott

I have always loved Kendra Scott’s colorful, fun vibe but this years summer collection just blew it out of the water! The prices are just at the sweet spot– not high enough to feel like you need to eat Ramen for the rest of the month but just enough to make you feel like you are investing in a life long accessory. Here are a few of my favorites that I know you will love too!

Dylan Pendant, $60

I love this easy to wear, everyday pendant. The colors are GORGEOUS (you have to see that pink in person!) and they layer so beautifully with other KS jewelry or any long necklace!

Rae Necklace, $65

See what I mean about the layering?! Coral is my absolute go-to for summer and this necklace is no exception. Wear it long or double it up for a shorter style (great for lower necklines). Available in lots of fun colors so you can mix and match your delicate pieces with this longer, more substantial pendant.

Billie Ear Climbers, $75

These are some seriously cool earrings. I love the idea of ear climbers but my ears are tiny! Sometimes I just need two or three accents on the earring so that it doesn’t overwhelm my ear. These come in gold, rose gold or silver tone and can be worn day or night.

Raegan Bracelet [turquoise], $90

Just imagine… You’re on a beach. Someplace tropical. With a drink in your hand and this bracelet on your wrist! The perfect, easy summer vacation accessory. Goes with everything, lightweight and fun! The Raegan looks particularly awesome stacked, so feel free to pick up a few in different colors. I love the mint and the iridescent too!

Tuesday Shoesday

Let’s celebrate my favorite day of the week (Shoesday) by taking a look at some of my recent shoe purchases. Here are five of my favorite pairs that I’ve picked up in the last month or so.

Jimmy Choo Lottie Sandals, $750

I splurged a bit on these but let me tell you… They are STUNNING in person. The photos don’t do them justice! They look really painful but they are truly comfy– I can’t wait to wear them to my next event.

Michael Kors Damita Wedge, $99

I own this wedge in multiple colors because it is simply THAT awesome. Comfortable (I could walk all day in these!) and they look great with many different outfits– pair them with jeans, dresses, maxis and cigarette pants! I have them in both the black and the watermelon seen above (which in person actually looks a little more coral and a little less pink).

Steve Madden Olivvia Wedge, $56 [ON SALE!]

I picked these versatile wedges up at the Jildor summer sale last week. They were a total steal at $56 and I could get lots of use out of them. Also really comfy and I easy to walk in and I love a good suede shoe!

Steve Madden Hottstuff Sandal, $30 [ON SALE!]

I also snagged these at the Jildor sale, but they are no longer available from them! I included the link to another site where you can purchase these and lucky you, they are now just $30 (I paid $48!) I love the chain detail and how boho chic these are. Great for days when I am working on my feet without a break and don’t want to wear heels!

Stuart Weitzman Avalon Heels, SOLD OUT

These heels are technically not brand new. I actually bought them last year to wear for my wedding, but didn’t wear them. They found a home packed away in a box when we moved and I totally forgot about them! I just pulled them out and I hope to have an occasion to wear them to soon. Check out this sparkly style also by Stuart Weitzman.

Tell me– what is your favorite type of shoe to wear for a night out?! #STYLEgloss. and #STYLEglossblog