Obsession: Peacock Eyes

Usually, most of my makeup routine is the same from one day to the next.  Foundation, blush, maybe some highlighter...I've found a good thing and I'm sticking with it.  I love lipstick in theory and most days a solid 35% of the weight of my purse is given over to assorted glosses, stains, and bullets.  Most of the time, though, I feel self-conscious when I wear a strong shade, and very few lipsticks can stand up to the several hundred sips from my water bottle that happen each day.  

So I like to go a little overboard when it comes to my eyes.  Shadows, pencils, colored mascaras--this is my chance to play.  Lately I've been loving peacock and turquoise shades like the Make Up For Ever Aqua Cream shade in the pic above.  The formula has serious staying power, lasting most of the day without creasing, and the cream texture is super-easy to apply with your ring finger.  Keep on your lid for a look that is modern and as subtle as a shimmering turquoise eye can be, and don't be afraid to let it get a little messy.  An eyeshadow this bright can read a little Dallas if you're too precise and careful, so don't worry too much about making sure it's completely even and symmetrical.

My other favorite is Nars Larger Than Life Long-Wear Eyeliner in Khao San Road.  The color is every bit as vivid and maybe even a little brighter, but an eyeliner can be a little more forgiving for the color newbie and a little more work-appropriate, depending on your office culture.  This whole line is amazing.  Easy to apply, super long-lasting, and it stays put.  This is not a liner to use if you want to do some blending, but unlike a liquid liner, your every tremor or slight mistake doesn't stand out and beg for correction.  Wear the liner or the shadow with a great brown mascara to soften the whole look, and you're ready to go.  Trust me--you can pull this off!