Truthfully, 2016 has been a roller coaster of a year, and one that we’re about ready to get off of, but it wasn’t all bad. The beauty world, for example, gave us more than a few treats this year. Specifically, we’re thinking about the unique products (hello, holographic lip gloss!) and interesting how-tos we discovered (you’re going to want to keep a fork in your bathroom from now on).
To celebrate, we’ve rounded up 17 of our most loved makeup hacks and can’t-live-without products that defined 2016. Here’s to hoping 2017 is just as good to us–in the beauty department, anyhow.
Glitter Parts
Sparkly parts dominated the runways, and while maybe not office appropriate, they were a hit for the holidays.
Non-Touring
We’re welcoming the non-touring trending with open arms (open faces?). The subtle highlighting technique is a seriously refreshing change after years of harsh Kardashian contouring.
Green Colour Corrector
Colour correctors aren’t necessarily new, but 2016 was the year we finally took the plunge and picked one up. And ya know what? It works! Red blotches no more! Maybe it’s time you tried some, too.
Gold Leaf Manicures
Nothing looks as luxe as nails accented with gold leaf. We’re a fan of the nude and gold combo, but really, any hue works. Best part is, the messier the better.
Charcoal Masks
Charcoal helps pull out imperfections, which is why these masks became a staple in our weekly beauty regime this year. They’re also great for goofy selfies.
Strobing
Sounds like a dance move your 14-year-old is into, but it isn’t. This year saw many trying a new highlighting practice, going hand-in-handing with non-touring, strobing is a glamorous way to accentuate your features and get an alluring glow.
Taped Eyeliner
No matter how steady your hand, a cat-eye swoosh is tricky to achieve. But when we discovered this handy trick of taping off the eye area, everything changed. Precision liner in minutes!
Contour with a fork
This crazy easy fork trick sent our jaws to the floor. Use the spaces between each prong as a template for your contouring. Brilliant!
Temptu Air
The world’s first handheld cordless airbrush tool changed makeup application forever this year. Seamless foundation, blush and bronzer has never been easier. Just charge ’er up, and start spraying.
Bun Cuff
Top knots ruled the weekend (and, let’s be honest: most of our 9 – 5 week, too), but when we discovered the bun cuff, no longer did it feel like we were slacking on our locks. Easy and elegant. New fav combo.
Blurred Lips
Blurred lips are the best excuse for not having perfectly lined puckers. We love this trend so hard because it doesn’t take much work, and if your lipstick gets smudged while eating or sipping, all the better.
Holographic Lipgloss
Anything holographic ends up on our Nice List, and Sigma Beauty’s holographic gloss was all we wanted for Christmas. Finally, an easy way to add some depth to our lips.
Tweexy Nail Polish Device
We’ve all awkwardly struggled to apply the perfect coat of polish to our own tips. But then, 2016 came along and brought with it the Tweexy, a ring-like device that solves all of our manicure woes.
Multi-Masking
One size fits all isn’t really a thing when it comes to skincare, which is why we were so stoked when we discovered multi-masking. Instead of lathering your entire face in one mask, opt for a few that best suit your skincare needs.
Monochromatic Makeup
One hue can have high impact. Pick a single colour (we’ve been opting for metallics, like copper) and place it on your eyes, cheeks, and lips. Ta-da!
No Makeup Makeup
The no makeup trend continued strong into 2016, but the thing is, some of us like to wear a little bit of makeup, even if it looks like we’re not wearing any at all. Which is why adore the no-makeup makeup look.
Did we miss anything?
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