Heidi’s Introduction to Prep and the World of Cosmetics
Before I started working in retail, if someone asked me if I was interested in fashion, I would hear, “do you like clothes?” and I would answer “of course.” When I started working for Anthropologie, I realized there was a lot to learn about fashion; that it wasn’t just clothes. Anthro was a great place to learn about the unique styles of women of all different ages. Sometimes the customers owned their sense of style and sometimes they were clueless and looking for a step in the right direction. One slight addition or adjustment to an outfit could make a world of difference.
Up until last Fall, if someone asked me if I was interested in make-up, I would hear “do you wear make-up?” My answer, “of course.” Now here I am, completely immersed in the world of cosmetics. Working with Prep, I’ve already learned more than I thought there was to know about cosmetics and skincare. I learned products and application techniques are just as unique as a person’s sense of style. One slight addition or adjustment can make a world of difference. Wearing the same make-up everyday can be as mundane as jeans and a t-shirt everyday. (I’m guilty of both.) That how you wear your make-up can make your outfit.
After talking with vendors and learning about application, I tried some of our lines. To be honest, I wasn’t expecting them to be as remarkable as they are. I was content with the make-up and skincare products I’d been using for about 7 years. But there truly is a reason why we carry lines such as Julie Hewett and Girlactik. Trying Skin Alison Raffaele’s Translucent Powder was like when I was in college trying on my first pair of Seven Jeans. I thought, “wow I can’t believe I’ve gone this whole time thinking those American Eagle’s were how jeans were supposed to fit!” It’s the same with make-up and skincare.
When I first thought about blogging on the Prep site, I thought I’d have to become a reluctant make-up junkie. But it’s truly addictive and I’m excited to tell Prep readers what I find! Stay tuned.
My Favorites
Napoleon Perdis Chandelier Shine Nail Polish in “Poolside”
I love the Chandelier Shine, it goes on smoothly and easily, even for someone like me who needs more nail polish remover than nail polish when painting my nails. The Poolside is like a shiny Schwinn on my toes. The color is brilliant and has depth AND you only need one coat to achieve the hue you see in the bottle.
Julie Hewett Cheekie in “Peachie”
Julie Hewett’s Cheekie is concentrated radiance in a pot. Going along with my favorite quality in a product, you only need a dab of it. I carry the Peachie in my purse because it’s a quick way to get a sun-kissed glow. Whether you put it on the cheeks, eyes, or lips, it doesn’t look like you’re wearing make-up. And you’ll never run out!
Girlactik Dark Star Base
Wearing glitter has never been my thing, but I tried the Girlactik Base and Sparkle Set in Brown. With the Star Brush it’s so easy to apply, you can control your glam level and the sparkles don’t shed onto your face at all. The real gem here is the Dark Star Base. It goes on like a soft eyeliner and adheres the sparkles, but I’ve incorporated it into my daily make-up routine as a crème shadow. It stays put and adds subtle dimension to the eyes.
DuWop Hands to Hair
So I’m constantly moisturizing my hands and constantly touching my hair. Which means my hand lotion is always in my hair and weighing it down. DuWop’s Hands to Hair is such a perfect solution. The consistency is light and the scent is mild so my hands feel soft, my hair keeps its style, and there’s no obnoxious hair product fragrance. 2 moisturized thumbs up.
