The Lipstick Index, coined in 2001 by former Estee Lauder CEO Leonard Lauder, was once considered an indicator of how women spend money in dire economic times. The theory goes that when times are tough, women historically rein in spending yet, inexplicably, lipstick sales spike. Apparently, little luxuries like a tube of pigment could make us all feel better. But COVID-19 hasn’t spared lipstick sales; its numbers have been tanking this time, too, and prevailing wisdom is that we have masks to thank for this.
In addition to reducing the spread of COVID-19, masks are creating what’s now being called the Mascara Effect. It seems that with lipstick not so saleable, we’re turning our attention to other parts of our face, namely our eyes. So, with that in mind, here’s a primer on how to create some attention-getting peepers.
Diorshow Iconic Overcurl Mascara
New for fall 2020, Dior launches its limited-edition Diorshow Iconic Overcurl mascara. Inspired by professional hair curlers, the new curved brush instantly creates a wide-eyed Twiggy look with intensified volume and curl. Its waterproof formula means 24-hour wear (let’s call it the sleepover mascara) and no under-eye flaking. To boot, it’s enriched with sugars from cotton nectar to help your lashes grow suppler and stronger with each stroke.
Image courtesy of Dior.
Available in classic black, blue, brown, and for a short time, 074 Iconic Sequins, a silver glitter top coat that offers up added drama and shine. These days, that’s a good kind of drama.
Nyx Ultimate Utopia Shadow Palette
Certified by PETA as 100 per cent cruelty-free, Nyx Professional Makeup launches its new 40-shade eyeshadow palette just in time for fall. The range of earthy tones, unlike a lot of other multi-colour palettes, is actually super wearable as we ease ourselves into another season (summer 2020, Thank U, Next).
Image courtesy of Nyx.
You’ll find some creamy eyeshadows in matte with a handful of metallic finishes, but they’re all highly pigmented, which means they’ll go on smoothly and fully—and they’ll stay on. This is a brand that offers professional makeup quality at drugstore prices. Because contrary to Mr. Lauder’s old index, every penny counts.
Revlon ColorStay Browlights Eyebrow Pomade Pencil
Pretty much the entire look of Copenhagen Fashion Week (the first in-person fashion week since the start of COVID-19) was relaxed and natural. From street-style attendees (Birkenstocks, shirt-dresses) to models’ makeup (natural, glowy), nothing felt over-the-top, which reflects the general mood of late: a “just hold the line and we’ll get through this” vibe.
Image courtesy of Revlon.
A big part of that Scandinavian allure starts with natural and effortless-looking brows that haven’t been overzealously plucked. Forget the hassle of tricky eyebrow fillers and use Revlon’s foolproof waterproof eyebrow pencil that lasts 16 hours—it’s one part matte eyebrow colour and one part sheen so your brows give off a natural, dewy patina.
Rodan + Fields Bright Eye Complex
Although Rodan + Fields Active Hydration Bright Eye Complex was designed for active, on-the-go types, I find it perfect for, ahem, less-active types, too. Because even those of us who sit on the sofa in perpetual cocoon mode can get screen-tired eyes (damn you, Nicholas Sparks). As such, our peepers also need a little TLC.
Image courtesy of Rodan.
Supercharged with a complex of phytonutrients and illuminating brighteners, the Active Hydration Bright Eye Complex helps improve the appearance of dark circles, puffiness, and dullness—whether caused by work runs or W Network reruns.
AYA Optical The Justin Eyeglasses
Looking into the future, we see good things for those who patiently wait—a flattened curve and, God willing, a better appreciation of our planet. Some of us also see more clearly with prescription glasses.
This month, AYA Optical by Claudia Alan introduces a modern unisex eyeglass featuring original Northwest Coast Ts’msyen and Cree artist Phil Gray. The Justin frame is business up front in glossy black acetate and party at the back with wood-inspired arms featuring Gray’s eagle designs.
Image courtesy of AYA Optical.
Since 2003, AYA has been producing eyewear featuring artwork created by renowned Indigenous artists who are paid both a commission and royalties. The brand has also long supported other initiatives such as the OneXOne’s First Nations Breakfast program (offering more than 700,000 breakfasts to children), and has distributed eyewear in remote communities.
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