Creating the minimal makeup look is a cinch with this simple three-shade set. "My biggest pet peeve with palettes is how I only end up using a couple of the three or four shadows that are included. But the Dior colors are all neutral and flattering," says Associate Editor Sharon Yi. "I'll also admit I'm a sucker for the packaging. The way this palette slides to open is so cool it makes me want to use it more."
This new liner is easy to apply (beginners, take note!) and the perfect daytime color. "I've been on a serious hunt for an eyeliner that looks really good on me, and I've tried dozens of brands over the last few months. This eyeliner is my favorite by a long shot," says Executive Editor Meghan Rabbitt. "It glides on smoothly, making it easy to get a straight, clean line. And I also love this green-gray color. It helps make my eyes pop without being too dramatic, making it the perfect daytime eyeliner."
Created with help from Liv Tyler, this beautiful pink shade creates a rosy lip tint rather than a full-on statement look. "I'm extremely picky when it comes to lipstick," says Associate Editor Alexis Finc. "They're either too dark, too shimmery, or too red. But when I tried this lipstick, I fell in love. The color is the perfect shade of pink -- fun and girly. Plus, it's sheer, which I really like because it doesn't overwhelm my face."
There are a few months in the year when the mood around the office gets downright giddy, and July is one of those times. Why? Because that's when the Fall 2012 makeup collections hit our desks.
When these boxes start arriving, it's kind of like getting a sneak peek at your Christmas presents. And while we may not be ready for summer to end, that doesn't mean we don't start squealing when we take our first looks at the next season's newest products and color trends.
The best part? Unlike fashion trends, which you have to wait to wear, you can start playing with the new beauty fads a little early. And this year, the Fall 2012 makeup collections have wowed us. We've already swapped our neons and neutrals for the new mulberry-colored lipsticks and dark gray nail polish we're going to see everywhere come fall. And based on the compliments we're fielding, we're in for a really pretty season.
So, if a Christmas-in-July feeling is what you're after right now as well, check out our roundup of our favorite picks from the fall 2012 collections. Consider this an early holiday present from us to you.