Don't wear so much if you feel or think you look plasticy. I've been wearing more makeup to look less like a college co-ed and more like a Grown Up, but I don't wear much of it. Almost-nude eyeshadow, eyeliner, mascara, lip gloss. I've got really clear (dry) skin, so I don't have anything to cover up - but I do make sure to wear a good moisturizer, otherwise my cheeks are itchy all day. And on a rushed morning or weekend, even wearing only mascara makes a difference.

I've been dressing more the part of Adult since moving to Anchorage, and I'm surprised at how much I like it. Jeans and tees are good sometimes, but they are no longer the only thing I wear.

mostly it's the foundation, powder, and eyeshadow that give me issues. i always wear moisturizer with sunscreen in it, and i could probably handle eyeliner and mascara. but lipstick burns, so i've been trying to find a good tinted lip gloss. it always just comes out too light and looking like i smeared bubble gum on my lips, or too dark, and looking just plain trampy.

i often think that if i were ever on "what not to wear" it would be interesting to see carmendy's reaction when i handed her my make-up bag which contained nothing but a bottle of Oil of Olay and a tube of Chapstick.

as for clothes, we're not allowed to wear jeans here, even on fridays, so i've been forced to dress a little more professionally. now that i've started making my own clothes i have a little more variety in my wardrobe, but i really only had two pairs of work-appropriate slacks. other than that it was cords or stretchy khaki's.

i found a powder foundation which is better than the liquid kind, but still when i look in the mirror with it on i have this strong urge to wash my face. and eyeshadow just never looks right. i am so very fair skinned i almost have to just get white in order to get something that blends with my skin tone. otherwise i look like an awkward kid who's been playing in their mom's make-up drawer.

If the foundation and powder give you problems, then skip it. Who says you have to wear it?

Do you have a Sephora nearby? If so, OMG why have you not been in there? Get your butt in one and ask for help. Or for a makeover. Seriously. The women in there aren't like the makeup counters at department stores, hard-selling you things that don't work for you. Plus you can try on ANYTHING before you buy it, so take your time. It's hard for me to find a nice soft eyeshadow too, but I found three at Sephorah last time I was in San Francisco and I just love them.

i didn't think so but i just double checked and according to their site, their nearest location is more than an hour from me, on the other side of the water (on "the peninsula"). if it was really a huge deal to me, i suppose i could make the trek out there once in a while.

maybe when you come out this summer we can make a trip out there together, get all dolled up, then go to karaoke. :)

Oh man, that would be SO FUN.

i know, huh! :) that would rock.