make up: the latest & greatest

The best part about being a beauty blogger is the research.  As they jokingly say, "It's a tough job but someone's got to do it".  I spent the evening trolling the nicer department stores yesterday to see what was new and happening, and what was hot for Fall.  While I found each brand's line for the upcoming season, what I truly found new and exciting were the makeup items that go beyond a particular season and that will work forever.  Taking that into consideration, here's my top three picks, what I consider the latest and greatest.

BRAND NEW, is Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer Creme Compact Broad Spectrum SPF 20 Sunscreen.  So far the only place I found this gem was at Sephora but keep an eye out for it because I predict it will really take off.  It is a convenient, carry-with you, tinted moisturizer with serious sunscreen.  I don't normally advocate using the spf in make up as the sole means of sun protection but this one just might do. - it's almost like a BB cream. Especially important is that it is perfect to tote in your makeup bag and reapply throughout the day.  But what I loved most about this tinted moisturizer was the consistency.  It was velvety and light with a natural look and buildable coverage.  Dare I say I like it more than the traditional Laura Mercier tinted moisturizer?

Lancome's L'absolu Creme de Mat lipcolor is to die for.  And ok, technically it is a limited edition for Fall however I predict that the colors may be transitory but the matte formula will stick around.  Creme de Mat looks like a lipgloss, and applies like a lipgloss, but the lusciously pigmented cream goes on matte.  Not only that but it is hydrating and a little bit lip-plumping as well.  It is ravishing!  Who wouldn't love this year round?

Stila In The Know Eyeshadow Palette is also matte and the colors are thrilling.  Thrilling because they include gorgeous, every-day-usable neutrals, along with utterly unique earth tones, and deep smokey grays.  What a combination! Daytime/nighttime - there are so many possibilities with this pallet I can barely contain myself.  Matte shadows make for a particularly smooth, blended look.  I can't tell you how many people are looking for matte eyeshadows - yet here they all are in one killer kit.  Plus it comes with a matte Smudge Stick Waterproof Eye Liner in dark gray.  Yay!