Thursday, December 6, 2012

Why Do You Wear Makeup?

I've been tagged by the lovely Lau. I really enjoyed reading her answers and getting to know more about her relationship with and thoughts on makeup, so I thought I'd share my responses to her questions as well. In my usual verbose style, I may have gone a little overboard with some of my answers, so this post will be long!

1. When did you start using makeup?
I remember trying black eyeliner on for the first time when I was 11 or 12 and being amazed at the difference it made. I never wore makeup in high school, except a handful of times on special occasions, but I would sometimes play around with the limited makeup I had alone in my room at night. At uni, I didn't wear makeup except pencil eyeliner, mascara and a tiny bit of foundation around the edges of my nose and corners of my mouth. It was extremely minimal and nothing like the whole routine I do now.

2. What was the first makeup product you bought that you loved?
I'm not sure if it counts as makeup, but definitely the Passionfruit Lip Smacker or Bonne Bell lip glosses. Otherwise, probably Maybelline Dream Matte Mousse foundation, or this Country Woods CoverGirl eyeshadow quad or a purple Maybelline quad in Velvet Crush. I used those two quads exclusively whenever I wanted to wear eye makeup (which was once in a blue moon) for years.

I've since graduated from Lip Smackers, but my lip product obsession started early.

3. What is your most used eyeshadow?
The bronze in the Sleek Storm palette. Hit pan on it! Otherwise, Maybelline Color Tattoo in Bad to the Bronze.


4. When did you begin loving makeup?
This year! The blog so far conveniently chronicles my steep downward spiral into full blown obsession. I don't even know what triggered it, it probably was a combination of factors, including watching a lot of beauty gurus on YouTube, reading a lot of beauty blogs, buying into the hype of pretty much every product I came across, and generally having no self-discipline when tempted by the allure of shiny new things.


There isn't a spare inch of my desk that isn't overtaken by makeup crap.

5. How do you feel without makeup?
It depends. If I’m lounging about at home, I don't really think much of it. If I had to go out of the house without makeup, I’d feel less comfortable without at least some eyeliner and mascara, possibly a spot of foundation or concealer. But if I’m not going to be seen by anyone I know, or if I’m just hanging out with friends, I don't mind going bare faced at all. There’s an element of practicality about it too, I’m not going to be wearing a full face of makeup while on a long haul flight or doing some strenuous physical activity. But if I’m going to see a guy I like, or showing up for a job interview, I'd prefer to wear at least a little makeup, or I’d feel exposed, more self-conscious and like I didn't put in any effort.

6. What do you like about makeup?
I’m frequently amazed by the transformative power of makeup. It's really quite incredible to see in front of my eyes how faces can be changed depending on the techniques and products used. I like that makeup isn't overly elitist as well, more affordable/"drugstore" makeup is often excellent quality, and unlike fashion where bags or clothing can be totally out of your price range, makeup can be outrageously expensive but you can still splurge on it. I love seeing professional skill and artistry in action (Lisa Eldridge, Pixwoo, recently, Charlotte Tilbury), and getting an insider's look into the beauty and makeup industry and what goes on behind the scenes at fashion shoots and shows. At the end of the day, it's just a lot of fun to play around with and it helps people feel better about themselves.

7. Three Holy Grail items.
Real Techniques Buffing Brush. Bad to the Bronze. Urban Decay Naked 1 or Naked 2, I can't decide. Don’t make me.


Yes, you need both.

8. Why do you wear makeup?
I mainly started to wear makeup more seriously when I began working full time after graduating from uni. I feel that makeup helps me look more polished and presentable, and makes up for where I tend to slack off in other departments, like what I wear (same wardrobe for months, my interest in fashion has declined proportionate to how my interest in makeup has escalated), my hair (a perpetual mess) or my shoes (I basically wear one pair of flats until they're ruined and then have to buy another one).

I think like most girls, a little bit of makeup can make us feel less insecure about what we see in the mirror. There's nothing wrong with a bare face, and I admire girls who have the courage to go all natural during the day, but I like that makeup can enhance my eyes, or even out my skin tone, or add a bit of colour to my face. In a way, makeup is a form of self-improvement, a legitimate and relatively easy way of cheating what nature gave you. You can still look like you, but a slightly better version. It’s also a means of self-expression, and a way of identifying and connecting with like-minded individuals. The more you love and embrace makeup, the greater courage you have to show that, whether it be popping on a bright lipstick or a heavier contour or crazy false lashes. And ironically, when something becomes your passion, you're at greater liberty to show that to others and get intrinsic reward from it, without caring about what other people think or whether their tastes align with yours.

That's it! I tag Cherie, Jennifer, Lena, Michelle, Laura, Maggie, and anyone who's made it this far and feels like joining in. I'd love to read all your answers.

68 comments:

  1. I too do the single-pair-of-flats-until-they-die thing! Thanks for tagging me! I never really thought much of this tag until I read your response- I think it's such a good way to justify why we do what we do. Even my own family doesn't quite understand why you'd 'deceive' people with makeup, but the way you put it makes so much sense. I agree wholeheartedly with your HG products, though I still haven't gotten a Naked palette yet. Must do. :) xx

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    1. Lol, I'm glad I'm not the only one. I don't know why I was never bitten with the shoe bug - I really don't have interest in shoes (bags though, is another thing :p). I hope you do this tag - I'd love to read your answers! My family doesn't really think much in terms of makeup as deception, I think they're more concerned about the fact it's a waste of time/money/skin pollutant.

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  2. Aw thanks for doing the tag Lena! I loved reading through and to me it wasn't long at all, if anything I'm becoming more and more a fan of your writing and could spend hours just browsing through your posts. It's amazing how similar we are "my interest in fashion has declined proportionate to how my interest in makeup has escalated", my Lord is like looking at myself in a mirror! LOL Adored your final thought, you said it just right ♥
    If I haven't mentioned it already, you make me want to write better, I mean, your blog puts to shame several renowned beauty and fashion magazines, seriously.
    Have a great day darling, my beloved lost twin hahaha
    xx

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    1. Awww, thank you so much for your way too kind words Lau :) You've always been such a huge support - it really means a lot to me. I used to be a lot more into fashion when I was at uni (and didn't wear much makeup at all), now it's the total opposite! :p

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  3. I really like the lip organizer you have! This was so fun to read, great post:)

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    1. It's just some cheap file organiser, but it does the job of organising my makeup amazingly :)

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  4. AFKJAKLSFJ your photos are stunning hun! I couldn't even focus on the words, I was too entranced by the pics! Haha! No seriously though great answers! :D
    PLEASE tell me what camera you use haha :)
    xx

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    1. Lol, I don't mind ;) So long as you're looking at one or the other haha! I recently upgraded my camera, I was using a Nikon D40 but I've switched over to the Nikon D7000.

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  5. I totally agree with nearly everything you said haha!
    x

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  6. Loved your post, I now love make up too after learning how to work with it for myself and it does make a huge difference on how you feel and what comes across with others. It's a way to care for yourself and I don't see wearing make up as something to think badly about at all.

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    1. I like that you feel that way, I think there is still that stigma attached to makeup out there in general, though of course less so among the beauty community. I guess the main thing is like you say, learning how to make it work for yourself :)

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  7. Cute - loved reading your answers as many of them reminded me of myself!

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    1. It's always good to know I'm not completely alone in my thoughts :)

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  8. My interest in fashion has also declined proportionately to how my interest in makeup has increased. Very well put! I've been thinking about writing a post about my views on makeup, as I love it but also do not see it as a means to drastically increase my self-esteem. I think it's important to still be relatively comfortable with how one looks without anything on. This tag has many good questions, I might do it in lieu of writing one big wall of text (although I, like you, am verbose and may end up with that anyway).

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    1. I would love to read that post if you do end up writing it! I totally agree with what you said about enjoying makeup but not viewing it as a means to hugely bolster your self-esteem. It is undeniably important to be comfortable in your own skin and to have enough self-confidence to like the way you look sans makeup. I will be the first to admit that at times I do struggle with that, but I think as I get older, I'm getting better in that department :p

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  9. I enjoyed reading this so much! It inspired me to write the tag today. Your photos are amazing. xx

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    1. And I agree with a rising disinterest (if I can call it that) in fashion. The more I got into makeup, the more I had to cut corners somewhere in order to have extra money to splurge in cosmetics. I ditched clothes for makeup!

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    2. It's so strange isn't it - how I really don't care much for clothes at all, it's all about blush, eyeshadow, nail polish and lipstick :p I suppose the brain only can handle one obsessive interest at a time, lol! Headed over to read your blog post now!

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  10. Love the post. And I agree with you, we need both UD pallettes! :)


    http://mymakeupcompulsion.blogspot.com.es/

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  11. These posts are always so much fun to read, I could really relate to your answers! And you've definitely built up quite the impressive makeup collection there!

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    1. I think it's safe to say I went a little bonkers with the makeup acquisitions this year. I'm hoping to significantly scale back from now on :p

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  12. Amazing pics, love the lispticks collection!
    Hey what about following each other? Visit my blog and let me know, it would be great to keep in touch!
    XOXO
    Ylenia

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    1. Love the Revlon Lip Butters :) I'll go have a look at your blog now!

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  13. Great post! It's a lot of fun to get some insight into how you think about makeup. :-)

    ~ Yun

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  14. A lot of your answers are identical to what I would say. I need to do this tag! :)

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    1. I love that you said that Sandra :) Hope you do it - would really enjoy reading your answers, even if they might be similar hehe

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  15. Thank you for telling me I need both Naked palettes, it's what I needed to hear!!!!
    So jealous of your make-up collection, and I totally fell down the downward spiral when I started blogging.

    xoxo

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    1. You and me both Laura! :p Yes, take the plunge - Christmas is just around the corner after all ;)

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  16. The first picture took my breathe away. I hate you a bit!
    I enjoyed your answers, sounds like me but I had acne problems so I feel insecure sometimes.
    Btw, I've been watching your blog for ages now, what's your name?

    xx

    I'm doing a little giveaway, go check :)
    http://holaflo.blogspot.com.ar/2012/12/christmas-giveaway-100-followers.html

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    1. It's Lena :) Definitely will go check out your blog and giveaway! I definitely grapple with insecurity at times, and while makeup isn't going to address the root of the problem, there's no doubt it can help :p

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  17. Ahh seriously your photo quality is always amazing!
    Loved reading your answers :)
    I can't leave home without concealer at the very least, because of these darn acne scars.

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    1. Glad you enjoyed :) Thanks for the sweet comment about my photos! Gotta love that makeup can give a helping hand for those little flaws that we're not entirely comfortable with exposing.

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  18. This was such an interesting post! I really enjoyed reading it! I agree though, make-up is a form of expression :)
    Aimée X
    dress-it-up-6.blogspot.co.uk

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    1. Thanks for reading! Yes, makeup is so much fun as a means to express your mood or to just get creative :)

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  19. hahah i love how you said you need both naked palettes. you've almost made my mind up of getting the first palette now!
    i'd have to admit, eveything you post here, makes me want to buy it myself :)

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    1. Sorry to be such an enabler ;) But I doubt you'll regret it!

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  20. thanks for tagging me!
    i much enjoyed reading your answers.

    i will get to a post as soon as this crazy week is over. ;)

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    1. Awww, hope that next week isn't as hectic! Looking forward to reading your responses :)

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  21. Well beautiful, I'm so inspired after reading your post. It was long but it was very interesting, I really see your perception about makeup your favorite products and read each of your answers back to your blog far more personal. I really enjoyed this post something different and special just like your blog!

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    1. The post was something a little bit different to what I usually write, and I did try to get a bit more personal with my responses. Thanks so much for reading and commenting :)

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  22. I love the pictures of your makeup stash/collection/obsession. Those containers you have are so pretty, and your collection looks awesome.

    I always enjoy reading about other people's ideas and thoughts on makeup. Plus, you write amazingly, and reading your posts are always a treat! :)

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    1. Awww, thank you Hollie for your kind words! The containers are pretty ordinary office organiser things, they're meant to hold A4 paper but I house my cosmetics in them and they work terrifically :p So glad I stumbled across them at OfficeWorks!

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  23. Such a great post! And I really love your photos, too. Also now I need to go and check that Maybelline eye shadow. :)

    Have a great weekend!

    x

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    1. Yes, I highly recommend Bad to the Bronze! Though it does get a bit overly frosty, but it's not too bad if applied thinly with a flat brush. You too! :)

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  24. It was really fun getting to know you more in this post! I agree with you on so many things, especially the reasons for wearing make up. And oh man you're making me REALLY want a Naked Palatte, I was staying away because I'm a die hard MAC eyeshadow girl but if it's on your top 3 list, that's pretty special!!

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    1. I enjoyed writing this post and getting a chance to share more of my personal thoughts! Glad that you enjoyed reading Evani :) The Naked palette is terrific - I'm sure you will not regret the splurge!

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  25. Enjoyed reading your answers :) Love the look of your make-up storage drawers too! x

    http://wewereraisedbywolves.blogspot.co.uk/

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    1. They're such great organisers, so cheap as well :) Gotta love OfficeWorks!

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  26. my grandmother owns a beauty salon, so i grew up around makeup. i've gone through periods of not wearing it, but it's a necessity now :L)

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    1. That must've been so cool! My mother isn't interested in makeup at all, and I don't have any sisters, so I came to makeup all on my own. I wear makeup every day to work now as well - can't imagine not wearing anything!

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  27. oh wow, you started wearing make-up when you were 11-12? i think it's so cute! i started when i was 16-17, haha :) and i totally agree with you, it's just so impossible to choose between UD Naked 1 and 2, so definitely need both =D

    and also, that's so true about wearing make-up, alot of people think girls who wear make-up are hiding their true face but it's not really like that. it's more like improving what you already have in a non-surgical way to boost confidence :)

    great post hun! i had fun reading it. <3

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    1. Haha I think I misread that question, I was 11-12 when I first ever touched/experimented with my first makeup product. I didn't start wearing makeup consistently until MUCH later, like university. I barely wore any makeup throughout high school :p

      I think the potential to modify your face significantly through makeup is there, but at the end of the day, your face is your face and there's no point trying to look like a completely different person through makeup. I agree that it's best used as something to enhance what you have, maybe cover up a few flaws, and give you a little boost.

      Thank you for reading :)

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  28. I really enjoyed reading this post c: your photos are always so beautifully captured! I totally agree with your holy grails. cannot live without my buffing brush. I'm kind of annoyed that it can't be purchased separately! i want to invest in a second one but to be honest, i don't really use the other brushes in this set :/

    à la foliee

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    1. I know what you mean! Apparently the Expert Face Brush is meant to address the issue of the buffing brush not being able to be purchased outright, but I have both and I still infinitely prefer the buffing brush :)

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  29. Ah, thanks for tagging me! Will do this soon. :)

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  30. This post is so interesting!! I really enjoyed reading it. The Real Techniques buffing brush and Urban Decay Naked palettes are among my absolute favorites too!

    Liz
    chewylove.blogspot.com

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  31. Great post, I loved your answers to these questions & agree on a few fair of them! Your pictures are seriously amazing, though! xx

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  32. What an amazing post :) I feel like I know you a bit better (at least in regards to makeup) lol I remember when I was little, all these girls had lip smackers :( And I felt so left out!

    nyuu
    lolitium.net

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  33. I really enjoyed reading this post! Your photos are AMAZING :) really love it!

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  34. I can't believe I haven't commented yet even though I read this when you posted it. :S It was definitely very interesting reading your answers, I have a lot of similar opinions. I can't believe you loved the Maybelline Dream Matte Mouse foundation, I despised it! :P Thanks for tagging me xx

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  35. Currently catching up on everyone's old posts that I've missed. Thanks for tagging me! haha I was recently asked the same question by my bf and with such perfect timing, I was reading your post so I just turned the computer screen, pointed and told him "basically, what she said" lol. I agree on many levels with your reasons as to why you wear makeup. :)

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  36. You have such an amazing writing style, really enjoyed reading this :) So eloquent and I just love your blog!

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  37. I've just stumbled across your blog, and although this was written a while ago, I'm tagging myself and doing a post on this tomorrow. I loved your answers! I too am not a handbag gal but love wearing my ballet flats out until I can wear them out no more. xx

    Natasha

    http://skinnybudget.com.au

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