How has your beauty routine changed during lockdown?

So, The world has slowly started reopening up as the vaccine rollout gets underway. As of next week, all Adults above the age of sixteen are eligible for the vaccine which is sure sign of the return to normalcy. While, here in New York we have had outdoor dining throughout the winter, and the subsequent return in time for Valentine’s day was a much welcomed reprieve from the cold - I found myself hesitating as I got ready to go meet a friend for drinks the other day. I realized I hadn’t put on lipstick in god knows how long. Why bother? When it likely will end up all over my mask and/or face, smeared in such away that I resemble the joker more than anything when I show up at the restaurant. 

Well, I didn’t end up showing up like that. But it did get me thinking about how our routines have changed in this pseudo-lockdown world. Here’s what I have changed:

1. No Lipstick - this is really sad to me, because I have this whole red lipstick as armor mantra, but when every time you step outside you have to put on a mask, it kind of makes sense. I definitely haven’t seen other ladies out and about with lip color on either. Fun Fact: The Lipstick Index, which typically is one of the most reliable indicators of economic strength, has been down for the first time in a century. 

2. Less Face makeup - same rationale as the previous with the masks. I’ve been sticking to tinted moisturizer or concealer. Or, nothing, if any acne is hidden by the mask and I know I’m not taking it off. 

3. More Dramatic Eye Makeup - On the flip side of the previous two, since the only thing visible are the eyes, I find I’ve been getting really good use out of my previously very neglected Charlotte Tilbury and Pat McGrath eye palettes. 

4. Accessory Game - Moving into the Accessory department, my typical go to’s were big statement earrings. But with the mask loops, and AirPods, it’s just too much going on in the ear. So I’ve found myself reaching for more necklaces, more cocktail rings and bracelets.

On the whole, it is kind of wild to me how much we change without even realizing it. There’s a lot to unpack here vis a vis fashion and trends. It does make me wonder how this will all shape out once these days are a distant memory.  

XOXO

C