What’s In Your Bag?: Our Top Picks

If diamonds are a girl’s best friend, her makeup bag is her sister. Infinitely packed with everything from eye shadows to bronzers to illuminators, the makeup bag is a behind-the-scenes accessory that many girls simply can’t live without. And with so many products out there, it’s hard to know which ones are worthy of a spot in the bag. Luckily, we’ve made it simple and picked five makeup must-haves that make looking your best almost effortless:

1.   Mascara

Mascara is a must for perfecting any look. Whether you’re someone who doesn’t usually wear much makeup and prefers a low key look, or someone who uses a smokey eye daily, mascara is a great way to make your eyes pop. A surprisingly versatile product, mascara can change the tone of any look depending on how it is applied. Layering a single coat of mascara will create a natural look, whereas layering multiple coats will create intensely dark and voluminous lashes. Tirzah Baker, a senior, applies three different kinds of mascara daily to create dramatically long and lush lashes.

2.   Concealer

Concealer is one product that should ALWAYS be in your makeup bag. Even if you don’t suffer from acne, concealer is the perfect go-to for the occasional pimple. It’s also convenient for disguising the dark under-eye “bags” that come with pulling all-nighters. Simply sweep concealer under your eyes to look instantly brighter and more well-rested.

3. Blush/Bronzer

Depending on your preference and skin tone, blush or bronzer are great ways to add definition to the face and create a natural-looking flush of color. Using blush creates a rosy glow that not only helps you look more awake, but is subconsciously attractive to others because a colorful complexion is a sign of good health. Plus, blush and bronzer are low-maintenance, quick finishing touches that any girl can make time for in her morning routine― no matter her makeup style.

4.   Primer 

Primer, an often underappreciated product, should be in every girl’s makeup bag. Primer has the texture of a cream and is applied to clean skin before foundation to help set makeup and increase its wearing time.

Primers are wonderful because they often contain minerals that maintain skin’s health and create an even surface for foundation application. “I really like using primer” comments freshman Tessa Girouard. And really, what’s not to like when the price of primers starts from a mere $9.99 (Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Skin Transformer Primer)?

5.   Lip gloss

Last but certainly not least on our list is lip gloss, an often misunderstood middle school accessory that can sometimes be given an unfairly bad rap. Sure, lip gloss can be sticky and just overall gross to think about. But many makeup brands have taken a second look at lip gloss, packing it full of beautiful colors and moisturizing ingredients. The sheen of lip gloss makes lips look fuller, too. You’re moisturizing and plumping your pout in one quick swipe of a wand!

Photo by Audrey Cilo