Favorite Things 2019
As is now tradition with my sisters, I like to put together some of my favorite things of the year (usually beauty-related) into a gift to give at Christmas. Here’s what I loved this year.
1. Mini Bolga Basket
This little basket is so chic yet functional, and can do double-duty as pretty home décor and storage or carrying around as a little purse. I thought it was the perfect way to present this year’s goodies.
2. Surratt Autographique Liquid Eyeliner
I am not hyperbolizing; this is the best liquid eyeliner of all time. It has staying power, it is true black, you can go bold, do a thin line, or just a flick. Plus, it’s refillable! The applicator is based on a Japanese calligraphy brush and it flows very smoothly, does not gush out, and allows you to apply exactly as much liner as you like as an extension of your hand.
3. L’Oréal Lash Paradise Mascara
My favorite mascara is a toss-up between this one and a L’Oréal classic, but this one has been winning out lately. Not only does it add volume, the formula allows more individual lashes to show and fan out giving a more delicate effect. I like it in Blackest Black.
4. Wander Beauty Baggage Claim Gold Eye Masks
These eye masks not only feel wonderfully soothing, but actually work in de-puffing lackluster undereyes. I like to apply these prior to makeup prior to a big event or evening out, and they help moisturize and prep the delicate undereye skin and make my makeup look 100% better.
5. Caudalie Beauty Elixir Spray
A French pharmacy staple, this spray is the MacGyver of my makeup kit. I use it to set makeup, spray on a brush to darken shadow application, refresh makeup midday, as a serum under moisturizer at night, and just as a general aromatherapeutic pick-me-up whenever I need it.
6. Diptyque Votive Candles
Who doesn’t love getting a candle? I like to keep a set of these candles on hand for a simple hostess gift. They are individually boxed within the set, and some simple ribbon or twine combined with the already beautiful box makes a wonderfully chic little gift. I also love being able to try out the variety of the more popular scents before committing to a pricier candle.
Favorite Things 2018