Series: Michiko Fujiwara - December 2016 | My Best Cosmetics
BEAUTY / THE EXPERTS
December 28, 2016

Series: Michiko Fujiwara - December 2016 | My Best Cosmetics


Series: Michiko Fujiwara - December 2016 | My Best Cosmetics


My Complete Set of Best Cosmetics for a "Casual Mode" Look


For my final installment this year, I'm sharing my "2016 Best Cosmetics." I'd also like to introduce a curated selection of makeup items that have been my go-to for achieving a "casual mood" impression. But "casual mood" here doesn't mean natural; it means makeup that complements casual mode fashion. It's about incorporating trends without looking like you're trying too hard, appearing effortlessly chic. After all, makeup and fashion lose their charm if they look overly "done."

Photographs & Text by FUJIWARA Michiko




Base Items for a Dewy, "Barely-There" Skin Finish


To achieve this kind of makeup impression, the foundation is, without a doubt, the base. The essential items and desired impressions for this are the following three:

— A dewy liquid foundation for a "barely-there" skin impression
— A hydrating highlighter to add a glossy dimension to the outer corners of the eyes and jawline
— A cushion blush for fresh, "real-looking" cheeks

The products for this are the following three:

★ Elegance Steaming Skin(Top left in photo)
This is theliquid foundationI also featured in the September installment of this series. It contains plant-derived moisturizing ingredients, resulting in a dewy, hydrated skin finish, much like after skincare. Its natural coverage is also a major plus.

★ LUNASOL Glowing Day Stick 01(Top center)
This stick highlighter contains moisturizing ingredients like olive and avocado oils, allowing you to add a dewy glow. After makeup application, gently tap it onto the outer corners of your eyes and jawline with your finger to create a dimensional sheen. If dryness makes wrinkles noticeable during the day, a light tap of this product can help diminish their appearance.

★ LANCÔME Cushion Blush Subtil 021(Top right)
This cushion blush is another essential item for achieving that natural "dewy, barely-there" look. And this particular shade, a rose pink, makes anyone look "radiantly happy." Even with a mode-inspired outfit, I prefer a look that appears happy rather than sharp, so blushes with this kind of texture and color are a must for me.

Trends on Eyes and Lips, with an Emphasis on "Effortless Chic"


After achieving this kind of skin base, for eye and lip makeup, I've opted for the late-year trends: "reddish eyes" and "red lips." However, by adjusting the application technique, I aim for a "casual mode" impression with an "effortlessly chic" feel.

★ CHANEL Les 4 Ombres 268(Bottom left in photo)
First, take the brown shade from the bottom right and apply it roughly with your middle finger across the upper eyelid. Next, use a brush to apply the red shade from the bottom left thinly along the lash line, like a shadow liner. Then, once more, take the brown shade from the bottom right with a brush and lightly layer it over the red shadow. Apply it to the outer part of the lower lash line as well. By sandwiching the "red" like this, it creates a subtle flush that appears to emanate from within, resulting in a soft, alluring reddish eye look that isn't harsh.

★ Flowfushi Moteliner Liquid BrBk(Bottom center)
This brown-black liquid eyeliner is the perfect match for such a soft, reddish shadow, offering a balance that's neither too strong nor too weak. The brush tip, finished by artisans' handwork, allows for delicate lines that blend seamlessly with the reddish eye makeup. Finally, applying black mascara provides just the right amount of definition to the eyes.

★ ETTUSAIS Crayon Lip & Cheek RD(Bottom right)
And one of this fall/winter's makeup trends: "red lipstick." Many red lipsticks were released in the latter half of the year, but I chose this one for its suitability to casual mode. It's a crayon type that can be used for both lips and cheeks. With its natural translucency and semi-matte finish, you can enjoy red lips without feeling self-conscious. The thick crayon tip also allows for a very natural lip line, creating "effortless red lips." The twist-up mechanism is a definite plus.

This year, I've enjoyed exploring various makeup impressions with a wide range of cosmetic products. As the new year approaches, I look forward to discovering new items that will bring fresh surprises and joy. Thank you for your continued readership.
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