TSO Loves: Amanda McCarthy Beauty

I was lucky enough to be sent some amazing beauty products from Boston makeup artist, Amanda McCarthy. Not only does Amanda do incredible makeup, but she also creates beauty products that have me hooked. From her creamy matte lipstick and liner to her rich gloss and beautiful blush, I can't get enough!

Where do I begin? I tried each of these products and it's hard to say which one was my favorite. So I'm going to share my thoughts on each one below!

Luxury Matte Lipstick in "Kate"

This ultra-longwear lipstick provides a creamy, matte finish in a variety of flattering shades. I only need a light swipe for super pigmented coverage. The color is a perfect rosy neutral that makes for a great dupe to Kylie Jenner's Candy K lip kit shade. The best part? It's not drying at all and it lasts past my early morning Starbucks sips. It's hypoallergenic, fragrance-free and paraben-free. I can't say enough about this product.

Mineral Matte Blush in "Hush Pink"

There's nothing I love more than that flushed, fresh-from-the-cold look. This cool-toned pop of pink goes well with a variety of makeup looks and can be built up from a clean daytime look to a more dramatic burst for evening. It's soft, pigmented and great for your skin. I love it!

Luxury Lip Gloss in "Sugar Berry"

I am so obsessed with this gloss. Add it on top of your lipstick or wear it alone, either way you'll get a perfect splash of color. I love the shine it provides and how long it lasts. If you had to add one item to your everyday beauty routine, this should be it. I like layering it on top of Amanda's Gel Lip Liner in Naked for a more neutral tone at the office.

Left to Right: Gel Lip Liner in "Naked" | Luxury Matte Lipstick in "Kate" | Luxury Lip Gloss in "Sugar Berry"

Left to Right: Gel Lip Liner in "Naked" | Luxury Matte Lipstick in "Kate" | Luxury Lip Gloss in "Sugar Berry"

Wearing: Gel Lip Liner in "Naked" with Luxury Matte Lipstick in "Kate" 

Wearing: Gel Lip Liner in "Naked" with Luxury Matte Lipstick in "Kate" 

Looking to snag some of these must-haves for yourself? Email Amanda at agwmakeup@yahoo.com.

Contact:  AmandaMccarthyBeauty.com | Facebook | Instagram

Sponsored by AMB Cosmetics. Products approved by Julie Saldarriaga.

For Ever Favorite

I have been using MAKE UP FOR EVER's HD foundation for, well, ever. I've always loved their formula and the buildability it offers. It looks great in person and on camera. A few months back, I purchased their new formula and I'm still obsessed. I have fairly sensitive skin that is prone to both dryness and breakouts so I have to be careful what makeup I choose. This has always been a go-to product for me and has always been great on my skin. 

What's your go-to beauty product? Will it be at the top of your Christmas list?

Dallas by Benefit

There's something wonderful about finding a perfect beauty product. When I met Dallas by Benefit Cosmetics, I was hooked! There is something so beautiful about the plum undertones and the subtle touch of shimmer. It's a great summer look that won't leave you too orange, but gives a nice sun-kissed radiance to the skin.

What's your go-to bronzer? Tweet @TheStylishOne_ or leave a comment on Intagram.com/TheStylishOne_!

A fun little snapshot of Dallas by Benefit in action for our summer date night! 

A fun little snapshot of Dallas by Benefit in action for our summer date night! 

Beauty: Drugstore Dupe from Almay

I absolutely love finding affordable, beautiful dupes for high-end products. This balm from Almay in "Blooming" is the perfect dupe for Urban Decay's Naked Lipgloss in "Love Child." What I love about the balm is that it's not too sticky, and it's a perfect shade of pink. Urban Decay's gloss definitely lasts a bit longer when it comes to the color, but this is a great substitute for glam gals on a budget!

Both products have great results and lasting effects on your lips. According to Urban Decay, "86% of participants had a significant improvement in the appearance of lines and wrinkles, and said their lips felt nourished... 76% had a significant improvement in volume and hydration." So, if you can afford the $20 price tag, it's definitely worth it!

If you're looking for something more affordable, that is still good for your pout, Almay's Color + Care is gluten-free, hypoallergenic, and has lip conditioning properties for less than $5. Either way, your lips are going to feel luscious and look beautiful. These two shades are ideal for a natural, feminine look. 

Do you have a favorite makeup dupe? Let me know in the Comments section below, or tweet @TheStylishOne.