Here's my makeup favorites at the moment...
What- Tarte Amazonian Clay 12-hour full coverage has been my go-to foundation for almost 2 years now. It is without a doubt my most used product. $38
Why- It doesn't feel heavy on your skin but creates a completely flawless complexion, I don't even need to use a concealer anymore. In my experience it stays gorgeous for way longer than 12 hours. I don't really have anything bad to say about it.
How- I use my fingers to dab about a pea size amount of this product to my forehead, cheeks, nose and chin. Then I blend using Tarte's airbrush finish foundation brush (which is also awesome!!)
Why- It's great if your skin tends to get oily or shiny, or in the summer time. Keeps your skin shine free all day long.
How- I like to keep my make-up a little dewy so most times I will only use this powder over certain areas like my forehead and nose. I use it in transparent and apply it with a big fluffy face brush for all over coverage and use a flat foundation brush if I want it concentrated in problem spots.
Why- Each shade comes with two different tones that can be blended to create the perfect color for each person. It blends really nicely and is build-able so you can create a really natural or dramatic look.
How- You'll need a brow brush and comb to use this product. I comb through my brows, and use my brow brush to follow the natural lines on top and bottom of my brows, then fill them in and comb through again when finished.
Why- The Tarte cheek stains have a very blend-able and smooth consistency that leave a pretty dewy finish. This shade is a glowy, natural looking coral.
How- I often use it under a powder blush or alone for a more natural look. I dab it on my cheeks with a blush brush and will sometimes dab a little on my lips for a natural looking lip color.
Why- It might seem tricky at first, but once you get the technique down you'll be able to apply this in no time. You can create both subtle or dramatic looks. I'm never, ever afraid of this smudging or fading throughout the day.
How- The brush that comes with this is awesome for a precise application. Just make sure to rinse or wipe your brush after each use, believe me it'll save you a lot of frustration. I make sure to wipe the sides of my brush against the pot after dipping it in the product to create a flat shape. For an everyday look I draw the line just slightly past my lash line, keeping it as close to my lashes as possible.