Becca Beach Tint: A must-have matte lip color

DEAR LUCY,

I have had long straight hair in one length for as long as I remember. Right about now, I feel brave enough to try something new. What would be a good place to start?

I am also looking for a matte lip color in a bright shade. Any recommendations?

And should a woman really wear perfume? Can’t it just be baby cologne forever?

MARIANNE

Perhaps you can talk to the person who cuts your hair about getting long bangs, which will afford you a lot of versatility. Offhand, there are three styles you can play with — a side part that is slicked back, very loose soft waves that almost look like beach waves wherein your bangs kiss the side of your eye sometimes; a middle part that is classic and sleek. You can leave it hanging or you can tie it in a ponytail.

Long bangs also give you the chance to still make a go for those days when you want to give the illusion that your hair is still one length.

In terms of lip color, Becca (available at Adora) has this beautiful matte shade called Adele. It is lovely and bright without being overly so. While you’re at it, check out the Becca Beach Tint Souffle. It gives the most natural-looking flush and is just so pretty. The shades in Watermelon and Lychee are worth checking out. Wipe it on your cheeks and a bit on the tip of your nose, for the perfect sun-kissed look.

LUCY

* * *

HYDRATE, HYDRATE, HYDRATE!

HI, REGINA

What products would you recommend for use in colder places?

ISABEL

Moisturizer and lotion, definitely! Whether you’re still somewhere in the Philippines and the temperature dropped, or you’re going somewhere with a colder climate, all-over hydration is really important. I flew out to Singapore a few months ago for work, and while it’s hotter and more humid there than it is here, I spent most of the week inside the hotel. I neglected to apply moisturizer, and by the end of that week, my face was flaking — the air was so dry, my skin dried out, too.

Colder climates are usually drier than we’re used to, and if you’re going to be outdoors and it’s going to be windy, that’s even worse. You need to maintain your moisture barrier by applying hydrators all over your body. When I visit colder places, I typically bring a heavier moisturizer with me than the one I use at home. (For instance, I use La Mer’s Soft Cream when I’m home, and I use the thicker Creme de La Mer when I’m away. Any moisturizer will do, as long as it’s something your skin can handle.) I also make it a point to slather on lotion. I’m not fond of heavy lotions myself, so I use Physiogel’s, which keeps you hydrated for a long time, but goes on so lightly. Heavier body butters are fine, though, if you prefer them.     

REGINA

* * *

A POLISHED LOOK FOR A JOB INTERVIEW

HELLO, RISSA!

I’ve read several times that you love to do manicures. Do you think it’s okay to wear colored nail polish for a job interview? I only have two colors in my kit: a light purple one and L’Oreal’s Color Riche Le Vernis in Cafe St. Germain.                    

KAREN

Well-groomed nails say so much about a woman. I personally feel unkempt when my nails are not done, my brows aren’t properly groomed, and when the re-growth of the uncolored roots of my hair is showing. Go ahead and wear nail polish to your job interview, but I suggest you avoid bright distracting colors. Choose a shade that will lend you authority and give you femininity at the same time. Neutrals in the family of pinks and berries are good. Red may be powerful, but it can also make you seem unapproachable. Nudes and pale pinks are great neutrals. Elegant grays have also become a new classic. If you will be working in an industry where hands will be in contact with food, medicine, or customers, best to keep your nails polish-free and clean. If you will be in the art or fashion industry, nail polish is an expression of personal style. Apart from nail color, nail length is crucial. I personally prefer a rounded square shape. Avoid long nails and keep them at a reasonable length, which will allow you to still use your hands in the workplace. Good luck with your interview!

RISSA

* * *

Send e-mail to Lucy Torres-Gomez at ltg@pldtdsl.com. E-mail Rissa Trillo at stylesos_rissa@yahoo.com or follow her on Twitter @RissaMananquil. Send Regina Belmonte your questions at vivatregina.tumblr@gmail.com or tweet her @vivatregina.