NEW FROM SLEEK MAKEUP

…SLEEKER THAN YOUR AVERAGE

First of all, can I get a pat on the back for the pun in my post title? I’m feeling rather pleased with myself that I thought of it on the spot.

Festive nights out are always a fun time to experiment with new makeup and Sleek Makeup has plenty of products to choose from which won’t break the bank. I’ve tried a lot of Sleek Makeup over the years, finding it fun, affordable and pretty good quality for its price point.

The Storm eyeshadow palette still holds a special place in my heart and I have a few blushes which can rival my pricier favourites. I’ve been having a play with a few bits I was sent recently,

First up, the Gold Standard i-Lust Palette (£7.49). In Superdrug stores now and part of the new limited edition 24K Gold Collection. The beautiful i-Lust Palette includes an array of shades to make your eyes sparkle with shades of shimmery champagne, rich gold, metallic bronze and copper. Filled with four silky shimmer powders (Laurent, Coco, Vera & Vivienne) and two rich cream formulas (Margiela & Louis) that are wearable on all skin tones and perfect to pair with your LBD.

L-R
Laurent, Coco, Margiela, Vera, Louis, Vivienne

My favourite shade is Laurent, a gorgeous rich deep eggplant, it will look beautiful smoked out for a sultry evening look. I’m not a fan of the last two shades to be honest. I’ve never liked silver tones on my eyes, as I find the finish too brash. Despite being a creme and powder formula, both Louis and Vivienne are near identical in colour. I know for a fact, I just won’t pay either of them any attention. Have you noticed the shadows are all named after famed fashion designers?

Next the Creme to Powder blush (£5.99). You can’t ignore the similarity of the packaging to that of NARS blushes – it’s uncanny! I have Pink Peony, which is a vivid bright fuschia in the pan. When applied, the soft creme formula, blends to a soft powdery effect which results in a dewy, satin finish. It’s available in six shades to suit all skin tones.

I really like how you can gently build up the tone intensity with this. Don’t let the shade scare you, if you’re typically not into wearing bright shades on your cheeks. This is a lovely warm fuschia that’s wearable and will give you a much-needed glow in this dull, grey (and cold) weather. When applied lightly it leaves a hint of dolly-pink cheeks. I was worried it would look chalky, but it blends well and lasted approx six hours on me, before it needed touching up a little. I love this colour, it’s right up my street.

The Candy Tint Balm (£6.49) in Bon Bon (swatched above) is a gorgeous glossy nude pink, which moisturises, softens and protects lips with beautiful sheer colour. I was quite surprised with how pigmented it was, expecting it to be pretty feeble once swatched, but it showed up well on my lips. I love this, it’s such an easy product to wear.

Perfect for days when you can’t be bothered to wear lipstick/gloss, or nights when you’re so intoxicated, you’ve worn your lipstick off and are in no fit state to reapply it, this hydrating formula enriched with Jojoba Oil, Vitamin A, C and E, keeps lips supple and looking juicy. Just apply as often as needed. The Candy Tint Balms are also available in six shades. I’ll definitely be checking out the other shades.

Finally, the Barekissed Illuminator (£8.99) . These versatile liquid illuminators are available in four sunkissed shades. Pompeii is the darkest of all and is the best choice for darker skin tones. Its pump dispenser allows you to distribute product effectively. Just a drop is needed in order for you refresh and enhance your complexion. Apply it directly to cheekbones, brow bones, bridge of your nose, cupids bow – or on your body. It can also be mixed with or layered over foundation, for a radiant glow.

I prefer mixing this with foundation, rather than attempting to apply it to my (non-existant) cheekbones. I find it brightens my face subtly and I feel more confident just wearing this mix alone, with a slick of mascara and balm, for an understated look whilst running errands.

This will help you dazzle alongside the tinsel without looking like a greasy sausage roll (always a bonus) in photos. Subtle from a distance, but certainly noticeable up close as you pucker up under the mistletoe.

This is a great little product for use on holiday, mixed with a bit of tinted moisturiser for minimal makeup prep in the sun. I tan easily in the sun and can never be bothered to go and get foundation matched when I go a shade darker, so this will no doubt come in handy.

Check out everything Sleek Makeup currently have to offer, including their Christmas gift sets, including the 24k Gold Collection in its entirety here, on their website and in selected Superdrug stores.