July 25th, 2011 
(Photo Credit: Frances Bridges)
A few weeks ago, I made the pilgrimage with thousands of other make-up minions to make-up mecca; The Make-Up Show: Chicago, which was meant for make-up artists, and since I am more of a chapstick n’ mascara kind of girl, I felt like a t-ball player at a major league game. My press badge was my passport into this colorful world filled with rouge and metallic liquid eyeliner.
Although there were over 40 of the newest and hottest make-up lines with booths lined up like a carnival, selling tool kits and equipment for the pros and products for us mere make-up mortals, I hand picked a few brands especially for Miss A readers, as souvenirs from my adventure!
MAC:
The make-up artist informed the musts for this summer is bright, popping eye liner and bronze, and lots and lots of bronze.
Must buy: Bronzing powder which flatters even the palest skin.
Smashbox:
The only make-up line named after a photo studio, the company bases their products to make the average girl look like the magazine covers shot in their studio.
Must Buy: Photo Finish Primer. It also comes oil-free and in an anti-aging formula, with SPF 15 to protect your skin. Name a make-up award and this has won it. For those (like myself) who had never heard of primer before this, primer is a liquid you apply to your face in between moisturizer and foundation that prevents your face from eating your make-up, aka your skin from absorbing it. It’s like cleaning a canvas before you paint it. It ensures your make-up looks like you just put it on all day.
Stila:
Their make-up artist kindly illustrated how their eye shadows Wisteria and Kitten are a great work-to-happy hour combo, giving eyelids a tinted summer shimmer.
Must Buy: Kitten powder all over shimmer (this is Stila’s#1 selling product). It’s an all purpose blush/bronzer/eyeshadow.
Yves Saint Laurent:
This fashion house has a marvelous makeup line.
Must Buy: Their summer metallic liquid eyeliners. One of the make-up artists dared me to try and rub off the liner after it dried, and it wouldn’t smear no matter how hard I tried. No more smudgey make-up and looking like a hot, sweaty mess after a fun night out.
