The latest update in mascara is a formula that actually brightens your eyes. "Lancome's mascara is a new take on their iconic formulation; it's extra dark with a hint of shimmer," says New York City Editor Dawn Davis. "I love using different mascaras for different occasions, and I'm making this my new 'going out' mascara."
The start of autumn doesn't have to mean the end of a sun-kissed complexion, and this new illuminator leaves skin glowy. "It's more like a warm highlighter than a true bronzer," says Editor-in-Chief Beth Mayall-Traglia. "I like that it delivers the luminosity of a Bobbi Brown Shimmer Brick but with a subtle undertone of gold. While the color looks really strong in the packaging, the pigment is actually pretty subtle."
If you're on the hunt for the perfect red lipstick, here's the end of your search. "This is a tomato-based red that's bright without being too orangey," says Senior Associate Editor Cinya Burton. "The formula is super creamy and long-lasting. I didn't even have to reapply after lunch! While $48 is a little pricey for lipstick, it comes in the most beautiful vintage-style case with its own small mirror. You can't find a fancier lipstick than this."
This new nail polish line has more than 40 vibrant shades to choose from, and at $4 a pop, you can stock up on the whole collection without emptying your wallet. "When I first started applying the polish, I was nervous about the texture, because it's super thick," says Assistant Editor Emily Popp. "But it actually goes on very smoothly, and you only need one coat, which really cuts down on manicure time. But the real bonus is that the polish lasted a long time without chipping."
Creating the minimal makeup look is a cinch with this simple three-shade set. "My biggest pet peeve with palettes is how I only end up using a couple of the three or four shadows that are included. But the Dior colors are all neutral and flattering," says Associate Editor Sharon Yi. "I'll also admit I'm a sucker for the packaging. The way this palette slides to open is so cool it makes me want to use it more."
There are a few months in the year when the mood around the office gets downright giddy, and July is one of those times. Why? Because that's when the Fall 2012 makeup collections hit our desks.
When these boxes start arriving, it's kind of like getting a sneak peek at your Christmas presents. And while we may not be ready for summer to end, that doesn't mean we don't start squealing when we take our first looks at the next season's newest products and color trends.
The best part? Unlike fashion trends, which you have to wait to wear, you can start playing with the new beauty fads a little early. And this year, the Fall 2012 makeup collections have wowed us. We've already swapped our neons and neutrals for the new mulberry-colored lipsticks and dark gray nail polish we're going to see everywhere come fall. And based on the compliments we're fielding, we're in for a really pretty season.
So, if a Christmas-in-July feeling is what you're after right now as well, check out our roundup of our favorite picks from the fall 2012 collections. Consider this an early holiday present from us to you.
