MAKEUP | Original Outlier

New Brushes!

Posted on September 17, 2017 by sonalkamath

Each year, as my birthday gets closer, my shopping bug is activated. I bought a couple of new things that I will share eventually on my social media. But today I wanted to share a few more brushes I have invested in and incorporated into my collection.

I am a big fan of Charlotte Tilbury make-up. I feel like her lipsticks and eye shadows are flawless. But surprisingly, her makeup brushes are just as good. I recently purchased her eye blender and smudger brushes and I have to say they are great! I liked them so much that I went back and bought the travel set too! I take them everywhere I go. They are quick, easy and get the job done effortlessly.

I also wanted to try the Sephora collection PRO featherweight complexion brush #90 after using the eye shadow brush from the same line. This brush can do everything! I mean not everything, but it can be used to apply foundation, setting your makeup, apply contour and blush. It is featherweight and so fluffy that it gives seamless application. I have washed this brush many times and it still feels the same. Loving it!

This set from Amazon was so affordable and they make good alternatives for the Artis brushes if you are on a budget. I don’t think I could spend $62 for a face brush. The set I purchased is all black and the bristles are very soft. The handles are plastic and I’ve read reviews mentioning that the handles easily break. I use them almost everyday and have washed them multiple times. They still feel the same and the handles haven’t come off. It has helped me to apply my foundation and concealer in less than a minute. I love this set!

I also wanted to mention that I clean my brushes using the Sephora collection solid clean brush cleanser. It really deep cleanses my brushes and keep them in their original condition. I’ve had some of my brushes for over two years and they are still going strong. A good brush cleanser is a must to retain the quality of the brushes you invest in.

I hope you enjoyed this post and have found inspiration to find new brushes. Please feel to leave suggestions below as I’d love to check them out!

My Wishlist

Posted on February 11, 2017 by sonalkamath

I hope you guys are enjoying 2017. It’s been a good start for me personally. I’ve got the ball rolling on the whole healthy lifestyle situation. I don’t eat when I am not hungry. I am not thinking or dreaming about food when I am idle. So far so good.

There are a few things that I wish for this year and I thought I would share them with you. NOTE: I might sound greedy as you read through the post but hear me out. I plan to only indulge on special occasions and only if I have earned it by accomplishing my goals. I hope you find inspiration in these pieces and work towards what you wish for.

So here goes!

Dagne Dove- Charlie Tote: Go to this website and look at the bag. You’ll know exactly why I want this. It’s absolutely gorgeous! It has a pocket for everything you want to carry through the day. It even has a pouch for shoes or maybe an extra top/tee you’d want to carry if you are going out after work. And the best thing is the detachable key leash. I am pretty sure I’m not the only one frantically looking for the house keys in my bag while its freezing outside. This one is top on my WANT list. It is extremely pricey ($495) for me but someday I will afford it!
Perch by Urbio 5-piece starter kit: This is such a chic way of organizing your desk or vanity or even plant some succulent in them. I love how clean it looks and you can see it in action on Tamira Jarrel’s blog post. This is good inspiration for my desk/ vanity that I will be setting up when I move in a couple of months. It is affordable ($39) and you can also purchases additional pieces to go with it.
Umbra Storage: This website makes me want to buy everything! I love their HUB Ladder in White ($80) to use as a entryway coat rack or just for your throws by the couch. Their wall planters are so modern and chic and some of them also have shelves for storing some books or a small speaker. I love their variety for jewelry storage from stands and boxes; they have it all. Once you scroll through the site you’ll probably end up buying things you didn’t know you wanted. Definitely looking into Umbra for my next apartment storage and organization.
Charlotte Tilbury Instant look in a palette Seductive Beauty: This palette is so beautiful. The shades are subtle and smoky at the same time. I REALLY want this palette. It is everything you would need for travel except for a lip color. But she even has kits with the lipsticks of your choice. It is also a pricey purchase ($75) but this has made it to the top of my beauty wish list. It’s perfect!
Chanel Skin care: I have been looking to switch to Chanel for skin care. I don’t what it is, but the creams and also their makeup are so luxurious. I love how they smell and feel on the skin. The fragrance isn’t overwhelming at all. I am looking into the Chanel Hydra Beauty Crème ($87), Le Lift crème anti wrinkle eye cream ($105) and the Rinse-off foaming mousse cleanser balance+ anti-pollution ($45). Obviously I cannot afford all of them together. But I will work on acquiring them one at a time. Goodbye Savings! LOL.
Mejuri 360 earrings: This pair ($95) is made in 14k solid gold. I love indulging in earrings cause I wear them everyday as opposed to necklaces or rings. It is definitely next on my jewelry radar. Mejuri has a great selection of everyday fine jewelry and I think they have something for everyone.

I hope you have enjoyed my wish list and want to indulge in luxury yourself. It’s always great to have goals and some motivation (shopping) to achieve them. These beautiful pieces are certainly going to keep me on my feet this year. Wish me luck!

5-minute make-up drawer

Posted on January 28, 2017 by sonalkamath

I recently gave in and invested in MUJI drawers. I got two of the large acrylic 2-drawers with/ without lid. To tell you the truth, I love them! They are so sleek and neat, they look really classy on my bulky chest of drawers that I got from Wal-Mart when I moved 2 years ago. They are quite functional and store a LOT of products for your morning routine.

Obviously, no one has the time for make-up in the morning. There have been times I have landed on my desk like a street urchin. But these drawers have helped me to pick exactly what I need to look my best and get a head start to my day. I make sure I have at least 5-7 minutes every morning to prep myself.

To give you a break down of my routine- After my skincare (which isn’t included in these 5 minutes because I consider that part VERY important), I start with Glossier priming moisturizer. This makes for a really hydrated base which works best for the gloomy and colder days. Then I have been truly loving my Chanel CC cream in 40 beige to give me a natural “dewy” look. And my t-zone doesn’t get oily through the day which is a plus. Sometimes I switch it out for the Vitalumière Moisture rich fluid makeup SPF 15 in 40 beige. This is equally good but I do need to use blotting paper once in the day. The good thing is both have SPF.

For my everyday concealer, I have been using the Glossier Stretch concealer in 30 Dark. I apply both using the IT cosmetics Heavenly Luxe Complexion Perfection brush #7. The kabuki side of the brush applies any cream product flawlessly and the other side is great for concealer. It gives a no-streaky application.

Once I have my base on, I apply the medium shades in the Chanel Les 4 Ombres in 266 Les Essentiel in my crease to give definition. Then I use my Hourglass Ambient lighting blush in Luminous flush which is the perfect shade for a natural “flush”. Then I use the Becca Skin Perfector in Opal on the high points of my cheeks, cupid’s bow and all the good stuff. Or it is the Glossier Haloscope in Moonstone. Then I wear any lip color lying in my top drawer. Lately, I have been seriously loving the Chanel Rouge Coco Stylo in 214 Message. Another favorite has been the Glossier lip gloss which isn’t too goopy and great for everyday. Unfortunately, this is sold out. I alternate both with my YSL rouge volupte shine in 48 Smoking plum. It is still one of my favs. All of these are great for winter as they do not exaggerate dry lips and are quite moisturizing.

There you have it! This has been my go-to or 5-minute make up: whatever you call it. I hope you enjoy these products if you choose to buy them. I will definitely be following up with my recent skincare routine so stay tuned!

My travel essentials

Posted on December 30, 2016 by sonalkamath

I am traveling for the NYE weekend and thought I should share my essentials with you guys! I hope this will help you in some way to plan out and not ruin your holiday thinking about what you left home. My friends tell me that I pack fast and pack well. But I know that I forget one small thing that definitely irks me.

So I have made a comprehensive list here (Note: This list might look like a little too much but trust me all of it will fit in your travel bag). So let’s begin:

Clothing: I don’t judge people who over pack this section. I get it, you never know what you might need. But if you plan smart you might get away with a few pairs. For example, I am going for 3 days, 2 nights. So I am bringing a pair of jeans, a pair of sweatpants, 2 tops and my NYE outfit. Also one pair of nightwear that I will be wearing both nights. Undergarments- I do not want to curb you on this. But take as many or as little as you like. I won’t judge! LOL.
Cold weather: 2 pairs of socks for two days and one I will be wearing when I leave. This is because I know it will be snowing and I will have my boots on. I dislike wearing old socks. I am carrying one beanie, one coat/ jacket, one pair of gloves which I will be wearing all three days. With my boots, I will be carrying a pair of heels for NYE.
My handbag essentials: I have talked about this in my previous post and I hardly ever change anything in it. Except for may be tampons (Let’s get real). These are must haves.
Accessories: I will be wearing a pair of ear studs, carrying one pair for NYE, one necklace and that’s it.
Things you forget and might need: Bobby pins, hair elastic, safety pins, Q-tips, bandaids for those nasty blisters because of new heels, toothbrush and toothpaste- I hate buying these everytime I am on a holiday. I will definitely need an anti-perspirant, mouthwash and ibuprofen. I know it sounds like I am taking my entire apartment but all of this really will fit in a cosmetic pouch. I suggest getting one of those mini emergency kits that you can throw in your handbag so you don’t have to make your own. One of my soon to be married friends recently visited me from Dubai and she bought one for brides. It is quite practical to have one. Also congratulations to the happy couple and wishing you both all the very best!
Make-up, skin & haircare: This takes most of my luggage space. And you’ll see why as you read on! I really enjoy my skincare and make up when on a holiday. Like I indulge in a sheet mask or a face mask while watching TV in the hotel room while curling up in the comfy bed. With makeup, I can really take my time to create the look I want. This is the best part about a holiday, time is on your side. And I make the most of it. Sorry I digress, while I sip on a glass of wine. Make up- take one of each. I repeat, one of each! Here goes- primer, foundation, concealer, setting powder, brow gel, eye primer, eyeshadow palette, eye liner, mascara, lip liner, lipstick, blush and highlighter. Not much into contouring, I go for the more subtle look. Now for skincare- face wash, body wash, body lotion, moisturizer for face and eyes, serums or any treatment products you are currently using, toner, and sunscreen. Haircare- I like to carry samples of a shampoo and conditioner. And the travel size of my Oribe dry texturizing spray. I also use this as a dry shampoo. And some heat protectant spray for styling. This does sound like a lot but if you are an enthusiast like me you will want all of it. I suggest using all of the sephora samples you have accumulated or take it from a friend who has. So that you don’t overdo it. LOL! I know this list varies for every person but make sure you carry only one of each. If you do not wear one of these then you get to carry one more of the other category. How does that sound!? It is only fair.

Some of these items are add ons just because its NYE. And that I wouldn’t normally carry on a holiday. I like to sleep and eat while I vegetate in my sweatpants on a regular holiday.

I hope you guys are having a great holiday season, are looking and feeling the best for NYE. Wishing you guys a fun-filled evening/ night. Cheers!

Products I splurged on this holiday season

Posted on November 29, 2016 by sonalkamath

I think this is the happiest time of the year for me. Starting with thanskgiving and that ends on New year. I am not really fond of 1st January as every new years’ day I sit back and think about how much time I wasted doing nothing or what steps I could have taken to make the year more productive or just better. Anyway my point is I’d like to keep this heavy thought for later and concentrate on the happy month that we have ahead of us. The month that is filled with food, family, fun and LOTS of SHOPPING!

The concept of gifting during the holidays was alien to me in India. Obviously that did not stop me from shopping but you get the point. When I came to the US it was totally different. The sales just come up for no particular reason. Like your birthday, random weekday or just cause its a sunday! Its like fuel to the fire. But who’s complaining right? Every promotional email I receive, I definitely go and check out the website that sent it. May be put a few things in the bag and then look at my checking account and then close the shopping bag window. This holiday season I bought and also came across some cool things. I would definitely like to share them with you guys. Some things are not too expensive but some are luxury! Hope you enjoy!

1) Glossier Black Tie Set: This set is great as a gift and also just to keep it for yourself. That’s what I did! I couldn’t give the beautiful set away. So, the set includes 4 full size products- Haloscope in Moonstone which looks great on all skin tones. I am a medium-tan and it never looks ashy or too light on me. I love it! The nail polish in #glossierpink which you can literally pair with any outfit. I have been wearing it since two weeks. Next up- lipgloss. They did not go wrong with this one. Its non-tacky and gives beautiful shine to your lips which is long lasting. I love how it ties your entire make up look together. Last but not least, the eyeliner in No.1. To tell your the truth I haven’t been a fan of dark eyeliners. I always felt like it made my eye look small but this shade in graphite is perfect and it looks really good when I smudge it out on the outer corners of my eye. Oh! And I forgot the black ribbon that comes with the box I have already used it to tie my hair at work and I am thinking about it as a choker this holiday season. This set is definitely you affordable luxury. You can check it out and get 20% off with this link

2) Articles of society– ‘Sarah’ Skinny jeans: I love me some comfortable skinny jeans but I can never find the perfect fit. I have been the in-between size for as long as I can remember. Anyway, this pair when they say it’s super soft they are not kidding. The feel of these jeans is so comfortable. I also like the dark sort of patch at the of the legs. And they fit me very well and they are mid-rise size 6. Love these! They are on sale right now! You can check them out here

3) Facial Hydrating Mists: These are great gifts for your skin care junky friends and obviously for you. The two that I have been loving are the Farmacy skin dew hydrating essence mist and setting spray and the Glossier soothing face mist. I have been keeping the Farmacy mist at my desk at work to keep me refreshed throughout the day. I haven’t used it as a setting spray as such. I enjoy the Glossier one after shower to lock in moisture. Both equally work well for me and I totally recommend them. Check them out here and here

4) Foreo Luna play: I know a lot of people are on the fence about this. But I really like it to use it with my Glossier Milky Jelly Cleanser at home and while I am on vacation. Its very easy to travel with, literally can go in your pocket. It does a good job of cleaning my face and I haven’t had big breakouts since I have used the combination. Check it out here

5) Royal Apothic Hothouse peonie hand cream: I came across this hand cream at Anthropologie. I was obsessing over it for over 20 minutes while at the store. I love surfing through the beauty section to find eclectic products and perfumes. I bought 5 different hand creams to give as gifts but this one is my favorite one. This contains a fragrance obviously so if you are allergic to fragrance I would just smell this in the store and walk away. Just kidding! Totally up to you! The peonie one is sold out online. But you can find similar ones here

6) Lush Soap in Honey I washed my kids: This soap is life! I got a small sample of this when my friend form Abu Dhabi was here. She recommended it to me and I did not want to commit to a soap without using it. I love this now! I am definitely going back for a large piece of this soap to last me forever! My showers have been lovely thanks to this soap. If you are not a soap person I suggest you become one cause this one is totally worth it! Check it out here

7) A value set I have been totally enjoying is the Mask-A-Holic 5 piece set from Peter Thomas Roth. This set is $75 and comes with 5 variety face masks 1.7oz each and a mask applicator This set will last you a long time! Totally great for multimasking and spending an evening relaxing with a glass of wine! 🙂 It is currently sold out at sephora.com but sign up here to find out when it is back in stock.

8) Sunday Riley Juno hydroactive cellular face oil: This is the most expensive skin care item I own. So I am really hoping it will change my life and make me look like Shay Mitchell. Lol. But seriously, I really want this product to work. I have used it a couple of times. Will update on my winter skin care routine soon and hopefully this will be a part of it! Check it out here

Adios for now!

Glossier Black Tie Set

Peter Thomas Roth masks, Foreo Luna Play and Royal apothic hand cream

Glossier Face Mist and Farmacy Essence mist