About 15 years ago I vividly remember seeing a headline on the cover of a beauty magazine that read, “Five Minute Eye Makeup!”. I thought, who is spending 5 minutes on their eye makeup? I don’t spend 5 minutes on my entire face! Maybe I should slow down… or wear more makeup.

Looking back I realize two things: First, I was in my 20’s and eternally tan, so I didn’t need much makeup; mascara, blush, and colored lipgloss. That’s it! And second, it’s just not me… I’ve always preferred a natural, easy look.

Don’t get me wrong, when I see someone with beautifully done makeup, even if it’s a lot, I’m kind of envious! I like the way it looks on some women, but on me, it just feels kind of silly. When I have a big event I will actually spend 5 minutes on my eye makeup (well, maybe 3 1/2). Because, it can be fun to go glam once in a while, but for day to day, I keep it me… natural and easy.

This month I am featuring my easy summer makeup picks. This whole routine takes less than 5 minutes (which includes drying time for my foundation). In the fall I will post other lists for date night and special event makeup, but for now I’m keeping it simple.

1. Chanel Vitalumiere Aqua Foundation.  I’ve been using Chanel foundation for years (I also use another formula with a bit more coverage in the winter months, which I will highlight in a later post). I’ve tried different brands from time to time, but always come back to Chanel. It goes on super smooth and blends flawlessly. My color is 30 beige, but I suggest going straight to the makeup counter so a consultant can match you up!
2. MAC Powder Blush in ‘Harmony’.  This is another product that has been a steady staple in my makeup bag. When I bought it, I told the gal at the MAC counter that I was looking for a shade to contour with, and this is what she suggested for my coloring. I like it because I can use it for my day to day look as a blush, and for light contouring for a night out.
3. Chanel Inimatable Mascara in ‘Black’.  In my June Beauty Picks I featured one of my favorite mascaras from Buxom. I love this formula from Chanel because it goes on smooth and clump-free like the Buxom, but it seems to be a bit “lighter” on the lashes which is perfect for a natural daytime look.
4. bareMinerals ‘READY’ Touch Up Veil.  This finishing powder is colorless, light, and perfect for setting foundation and eliminating shine. I always carry a small compact in my bag to dust on when I start to get shiny throughout the day.
5. Maybelline Baby Lips Lip Gloss in ‘Taupe with Me’. I’m a total lip gloss fanatic! I love this particular one for three reasons: First, it’s really moisturizing! Often times I’m using it throughout the day because my lips are dry. Second, it’s not sticky like other formulas. And third, the color is the perfect nude for a natural daytime look!

Beauty Bonus: To make your eyes pop without adding more makeup, use an eyelash curler. I actually never put mascara on without using one first. It really does make a world of difference.

After you apply your foundation, curl your lashes and immediately apply mascara. Doing so allows some drying time for your foundation before dusting on your blush and setting powder.

My pick: ProCurl Eyelash Curler by Tweezerman.