Author: HairWeavings Editorial Team

1st Photo: @levabonaparte

Originally posted at: Leva Bonaparte’s Purple Tweed Jacket

Thanks to TikTok, Taylor Swift’s song “Lavender Haze” and the past spring and summer fashion runway shows, the color purple is having a major moment in the beauty and fashion world. And it’s an easier color to wear, both as makeup and clothing/accessories, than we might think because purple is considered a universal color since it has an equal mix of red and blue. This means that it can look beautiful on everyone.

So, today we’re going to explore which shades of purple might work best for us based on our skin undertone and how we can beautifully incorporate this color into our makeup routine.

The Power of Purple

Purple has long been a captivating and mysterious color since it combines the calm serenity of blue with the fierce energy of red. It’s often associated with royalty, nobility, luxury, power and ambition. And the color purple specifically includes the shades lavender, plum, violet, fuchsia, magenta, indigo, thistle and orchid. Cooler tones of purple have more blue in them and warmer shades of purple have more red in them.

If you have a cool skin undertone, you’ll look best in cooler tones of purple and if you have a warm undertone, warmer shades with more red mixed into them will look best on you. And if you have a neutral undertone, you’ll look wonderful in both warm and cool shades of purple. If you’re not sure of the undertone of your skin, here’s a link to a video I’ve done on this topic which I hope will be helpful.

Ways to Use Purple

Adding a pop of purple to our makeup routine is a fun and easy way to switch things up. We can highlight a single feature using purple, create just a pop of purple – or go full bore – with a complete monochromatic purple look. And, of course, the full monochromatic look can include all different shades and intensities of purple.

So, whether we decide on a purple eye look, a more natural-looking pink toned purple flush on our cheeks, or a light lavender lip gloss, there are endless ways to incorporate this color into our makeup routine.

In today’s video we’re going to focus on seven different ways we might include purple in our makeup routine: with our eyeshadow, eyeliner, mascara, blush, highlight, lipstick and finishing powder.

It’s Universally Flattering on the Eyes

Let’s start with eyeshadow. Purple eyeshadow can work for all eye colors. Purples and plums can give a boost to grey or blue eyes and any purple will make hazel eyes look especially dramatic. Pairing purple with brown eyes is lovely, and any shade of purple will look beautiful.

Be sure to check out Elise’s YouTube channel which specifically focuses on makeup tips, techniques, and product reviews for those of us 50+. Don’t forget to subscribe!

Before we take a look at some gorgeous purples in a variety of eyeshadow palettes, let me first say that purple pigment can be a little challenging to blend, so it’s important to practice a bit. It can also be difficult to clean off, so make sure to use a gentle makeup remover like micellar water.

Since some people have allergies to a common red dye which is sometimes used in purple and pink, it’s always best to be sure you don’t have a reaction to the eyeshadow before you head out the door. So give a skin test to the color you want to wear by patting a little on the inside of your wrist and then letting it sit there for a few minutes to see if you have a reaction.

And here are some beautiful eyeshadow palette options that I’ll share with you in today’s video that have some gorgeous shades of purple:

• Colourpop’s “Cabana Club,”
• Oden’s Eye “Solmane II,”
• Colourpop’s “It’s My Pleasure,”
• Colourpop’s “Lilac You A Lot,”
• Huda Beauty’s “Purple Haze,”
• Blend Bunny’s “Blends” palette,
• the Glamlite “Mikayla 2” palette,
• “The Nubian Royal” from Juvia’s Place and
• ABH’s “Norvina Palette #5.”

But the eyeshadow palette I’m actually going to use for the first time in the video is the “Fleur” palette from Ace Beaute.

Other Purple Options for Our Eyes

If you’re not comfortable wearing purple eyeshadow, just using a deep purple eyeliner or eyeshadow as eyeliner can be a beautiful touch. But it’s a good idea to stay away from red-based purple eyeliners because those can definitely make us look tired.

And believe it or not, there is such a thing as purple mascara. L’Oreal makes one and so does NYX Cosmetics. A great way to use purple mascara is to apply one coat of black mascara first and then use the purple on the tips of the upper and lower lashes.

Beautiful Purple Blush Options

When it comes to blush, the biggest challenge to going purple is choosing the right shade with the right amount of warmth. Many shades of purple blush can create a lovely flush that adds vibrancy to our look and can instantly heighten our glow since it brightens the eyes and enhances the natural pigment of the lips.

Here are several blushes I’ll share with you in the video:

• Em Cosmetics’ blush called “Chiffon” which is a cool pink with lilac undertones;
• Em Cosmetics’ Color Drops blush in “Little Lilac” which is a lavender shade;
• Nars’ Afterglow Liquid Blush in the shade “Wanderlust” which is a soft lilac;
• Hard Candy’s Face Off Blush in “Pop Star” which is a very light lavender;
• NYX Cosmetics’ Jumbo Multi-Use Face Stick in “Blueberry Muffin”  which is a light pink lavender with some pearlescent glow; and
• About Face’s blush “Score” which looks like a very deep purple in the compact, but is actually a very sheer pinky violet.

Some purple blushes I don’t have which look gorgeous are the Tower 28 cream blush in the shade “Party Hour,” the Glossier Cloud Paint blush in “Wisp” and Rare Beauty’s Soft Pinch Liquid Blush in “Faith.”  

A Variety of Options for Our Lips

A purple lip color can really be fun because purple lipsticks range from very deep purples to lavender. And it can be easier to pull off a purple lip color than you might think because of this range of hues, undertones and formulas.

One good option is from the clean beauty brand Ilia and is called “Ultra Violet.” Next is a drugstore lipstick from Flower Beauty in the shade “Dahlia Desire.” Another drugstore lipstick that I love is one from Milani called “Violet Volt.”

There are so many beautiful purple lipstick shades, but the wonderful thing is that if you’re not quite ready to go full-out purple, there are a lot of wonderful ways to adjust the color by mixing a lighter lipstick shade with it – or adding a lighter lip gloss.

There are some lovely purple toned glosses in the Sephora makeup line. One is called “Regal” and another that I use a lot is “Wild” which is a light shimmery lavender. And this last gloss is pink. It’s called “Daisy Girl” from Lawless Beauty, and it works beautifully to tone down purple shades which are too dark for me.

There are two other Lawless glosses in purple shades which are beautiful: “Lavender Sorbet” which is a pale, pinky lavender and “Violet Bloom” which is a soft orchid.

A Beautiful Purple Finishing Touch

And the last option I want to focus on is finishing powder. Applying a finishing powder which has just a light touch of lavender in it can be a great way to stick your toe into the purple makeup trend because it can never look overdone and can instantly add life to our makeup and counteract any ashy or grey tones in our complexion.

Also, icy tones in the purple family reflect light which can add a beautiful glow to our complexion. A cult favorite finishing powder which I’ll never be without is from Hourglass. Their shade “Mood Light” is a soft, sheer lavender pink powder which is stunning.

So whether you’d like to add just a touch of purple to your makeup or go full-out, there is a wide range of wonderful products from which to choose.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Is purple one of your favorite colors? Do you have a favorite purple makeup product you love? If so, please share it with us!

Originally posted at: Madison LeCroy’s White Crochet Cutout Crop Top

Menopause is a natural biological process that marks the end of a woman’s menstrual cycles. It is diagnosed after a woman has gone 12 months without a menstrual period. While it’s a natural part of aging, the transition to menopause can be challenging, with symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, and sleep disturbances often causing discomfort.

However, a growing body of research suggests that aromatherapy, the therapeutic use of essential oils, can provide significant relief from these symptoms.

How to Use Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is a holistic healing treatment that uses natural plant extracts to promote health and well-being. It uses aromatic essential oils medicinally to improve the health of the body, mind, and spirit. It enhances both physical and emotional health.

Aromatherapy works through the sense of smell and skin absorption, using products like diffusers, aromatic spritzers, inhalers, bathing salts, body oils, creams, or lotions for topical application.

Essential Oils for Menopause Aromatherapy

When it comes to menopause, certain essential oils have been found to be particularly effective in managing symptoms. Here are some of the most beneficial ones:

Clary Sage

Known for its calming properties, clary sage is often used to help manage mood swings and reduce feelings of anxiety and depression. It also has a cooling effect, which can help alleviate hot flashes.

Lavender

Lavender is one of the most popular essential oils in aromatherapy. It is known for its calming and relaxing properties, making it an excellent choice for managing sleep disturbances. It can also help reduce anxiety and mood swings.

Peppermint

Peppermint oil is a refreshing essential oil that can help reduce the intensity and frequency of hot flashes. It can also boost energy levels, which can be beneficial as fatigue is a common symptom of menopause.

Geranium

Geranium oil can help balance hormones, making it a useful tool for managing mood swings. It also has a calming effect, which can help improve sleep quality.

Lemon Balm

Lemon balm oil is known for its calming properties, making it an excellent choice for managing anxiety and promoting sleep.

Use Essential Oils Safely

While these essential oils can provide relief, it’s important to remember that everyone’s body is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. It’s also crucial to use essential oils safely. They should be diluted in a carrier oil before topical application, and some oils may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals.

Moreover, while aromatherapy can provide symptom relief, it should not replace traditional medical treatments for menopause. It’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment regimen, including aromatherapy.

In Conclusion:

Menopause is a significant transition in a woman’s life that can bring about uncomfortable symptoms. However, natural therapies like aromatherapy can offer a complementary approach to managing these symptoms. Essential oils like clary sage, lavender, peppermint, geranium, and lemon balm can provide relief from hot flashes, mood swings, and sleep disturbances. With their calming and balancing properties, these oils can help make the journey through menopause a little more comfortable.

Further read: 4 MOST COMMON POST MENOPAUSE SYMPTOMS AND WHAT YOU CAN DO TO CONTROL THEM.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Do you use aromatherapy? What for? Has it helped you alleviate certain symptoms? Have you tried aromatherapy for symptoms of menopause? Which oils have helped you the most?

All day long, I help my clients with online dating and hear some interesting perspectives. Today, I am featuring two men who went through the online coaching program with me and who agreed to an interview to share their thoughts, ideas, misgivings, feelings, and advice to others on online dating and the best approach.

But Wait – I’m a Woman!

I’ve heard an interesting observation from many female clients regarding potential dating partners. It goes like this: “Oh, no, Andrea, not him. I’ve seen him online for 5 years.” First, let me say this: you’ve been online looking for 5 years yourself – with no success – yet you won’t reach out to a man in similar straits??? Well, just wait!

Back to My Interviewees

These two men, just like many of my clients, had one thing in common – they wanted results, and they didn’t want to spend much time messaging women online. One commented he’d rather be on the golf course than on a dating app; the other has an intense career and in his free time he plays basketball – neither’s idea of fun was online dating.

Surprise, surprise, right?

I’ve changed their names, of course, and for simplicity, here are the facts:

Mark, 64, a business executive from Dallas who travels 85% of the time and so has serious time constraints.

Tim, 68, Silicon Valley, technopreneur and founder who lives primarily in New York City.

Here we go with the interview:

Why Did You Decide on Online Dating?

Mark: I realized I wasn’t going to meet anyone where I worked. I was highly discouraged plus I was a high-ranking executive at a Fortune 100 company. I’d been divorced for 5 years – had two teens at home – and I was just ready to date (not a serious relationship, I thought). I knew nothing about online dating but had seen commercials.

Tim: I didn’t see any other choice. Everyone is doing it! I looked at the company you founded, Andrea, It’s Just Lunch, and just couldn’t imagine they had a large enough pool compared to the internet. Seemed a no-brainer when I researched the numbers on the online dating pool.

Feelings About Going Online?

Mark: Hesitant; fearful of people recognizing me, and it happened twice – a woman from my neighborhood who I actually went on a date with and a woman from my company who I did not go on a date with). At this point, I got over my fear of people recognizing me. I thought, “Hey, our senior VP of Marketing is online.” So I got over it!

Tim: My hesitation was privacy – people will see you unless you choose the option where they only see you if you select them, but then you are limiting your options. Another drawback was time; not to get caught up looking at these damn sites all day long. Well, I did do that until I hired you and you wouldn’t let me. (He laughs).

How Long Were You on the Sites/Apps Before Reaching Out to a Coach?

Mark: 5 years. I just had no time and would check it once a month – which of course was not optimizing my dating life. I went on maybe 4-5 dates a year, but wasn’t putting much effort in. Then my kids went off to college, and I hired you and got more serious. I didn’t even know someone like you – a dating coach – existed five years ago. Hey, I was married a long time!

Tim: I was married for 24 years and initially got lucky online and was in a relationship for 9 months. I then went on 3 sites/apps for three months which was overwhelming and that’s when I decided I needed help and hired you to vet these women and show me a more efficient way to use online dating.

How Often Did You Check the Dating Site/App?

Mark: Once a month.

Tim: Every day before you. I’m super organized and tend to check emails constantly too – but I quickly got swamped with the dating thing and got discouraged/frustrated with the time and energy it took.

What Three Things Make a Woman Attractive to You So You’d Want to Reach Out? And, How Did You Respond – Message, Phone, Straight to a Meet?

Mark: Her photos, and if something in her profile made me laugh, or we had a commonality (like one woman also was from Boston where I grew up and visited the Cape often, as I do). A message on the app, then a text on the phone, then a short phone call. I did the phone because I’m a bit reticent and shy – so by hearing their voice first it made the in-real-life meet really feel more comfortable and almost like a second date.

Tim: All the things you preach: multiple photos, a complete profile, and listing things that are truly unique to them – no generic platitudes. As far as the first date, I think women want to feel safe, so I’d take the lead from them – I’d say 50% we just agreed via text to meet at a restaurant and the other 50% we had a short phone call after a couple of texts. It just depended on them.

Did You Ever Think About Using a Matchmaker or Doing Group Single Events?

Mark: Definitely not my style at all. I wasn’t comfortable with either of those.

Tim: No. In today’s world, it makes no sense. It’s like travel. Do you really need a “travel agent” these days or can you book your own hotel and flights? Now having someone write your profile, select photos, set me up online and help choose dates – that’s cost effective.

What About Your Photos?

Mark: Initially, I just picked a couple – one with family and friends also to show I was social. Full body. A few women told me men misled on height (I’m 6’2”), so I made sure there was a full body shot too. And I was smiling. You had me add more – no baseball cap and only one with shades on!

Tim: Typically, 5. Headshot, activity (at a football game or concert), hiking. Wanted to show full body in maybe shorts and t-shirt.

Any Advice You’d Give Women Who Are Online Dating?

Mark: Stand-out by saying unique or quirky things about you. I liked this one woman who said she loved hosting Thanksgiving each year for 40 people, and she did all the cooking herself – I was impressed as she sounded fun and ambitious with entertaining! Have a full body photo for sure – I did look for that. And make sure your photos are current, so men aren’t surprised. Oh, and be honest about your age too.

Tim: I frankly got mad when I met someone where it was obvious that they were using old photos. My advice to women: always date your photos.

Anything Else We Should Know?

Mark: Hire someone like you. It saves time and you’ll be on the right track.

Tim: My dog photo got a lot of comments! So did the one playing pickleball with my 15-year-old granddaughter though I covered her face. It’s just showing the real you.

Thanks, Mark and Tim

Ok, so want to know their outcomes? Mark’s in a serious relationship – as he told me early on, never say that you’d never marry again! Tim – he’s been seeing Gail for almost a year; they don’t live together nor plan marriage – but it’s a committed relationship.

My oddball career to family and friends for the past 30 years began in my 20s – I feel so lucky to have many wonderful clients – and I’m happiest when I hear people fall back into dating or love.

Happy Holidays all! It’s a happy and fun time of the year to date!

Let’s Have a Conversation:

How did you feel about the male point of view when it comes to online dating? Did you agree or disagree? How would you respond to the questions posed to the two interviewed men?