2014 Favorites: Part 1

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It’s that time again! I’ve been digging through my vanity for the past few days deciding which things would get a spot in my 2014 favorites and it was really tough. I’ve been more selective about my purchases this year, with the end result being that I ended up really loving a lot of things. I’m way too lazy to photograph that much stuff though, so I managed to narrow it down a bit. It still ended up being just a little too much for one post, so I did the logical thing and decided to split it up. So today I present to you: my top most-used, most-loved, most-favorite tools of the year.

Chikuhodo R-C2 – This brush was my first foray into the grey squirrel hair Chikuhodo is famous for. Everything about it is top-notch, but my favorite part is the super-soft hair – it’s perfect for the ultra pigmented blushes I love so much. I’m happy to say that after around 9 months of frequent use, it still looks pristine.

Hakuhodo J214R – I actually bought this brush last year, but I’ll admit I didn’t quite know what to do with it. It wandered around my brush jar aimlessly for a while before it found its calling – blending undereye concealer. Using it to stipple builds heavier coverage, or I can use the wispy synthetic bristles to just barely blend the edges of my pink corrector. I’m not sure how I managed without it.

Rae Morris #4 Square Kabuki – It’s been just barely over a year since I got this, and I still can’t get over how tiny and adorable it is (yes, I’m one of those people who’ll do a girl-squeal over almost anything miniature). The product description recommends it for finishing, but I’ve discovered it’s a fantastic contouring brush for small features.

Hakuhodo J521 – Another one that I’ve had for a while. It’s my go-to brush for tightlining, and now that I’ve started working on my eyeliner skills I’ve found that it’s great for wings too. The bristles don’t really move much, so it’s extremely easy to control, not to mention incredibly precise.

Chanel #7 Foundation Brush – I always thought I didn’t like stippling brushes for foundation, so I’m really not sure why I impulse-bought this one, aside from the fact that I had a Macy’s gift card burning a hole in my pocket. In any case, I’m glad I did. It gives great coverage and very smooth finish with liquid foundations, and it’s nice and soft on my skin. Best of all, no more kicking up flakes when I’m having a dry-skin day.

Surratt Relevée Lash Curler – The materials and construction on this curler are rock-solid, and the huge opening is great for all lashes, real or fake. Sadly the Barneys website doesn’t have it listed anymore (discontinued? I hope not!) but I’m willing to bet it’s still available at some counters, at least.