The Makeup Trinity
In an effort to lift my shopping slump, the girly-girl inside me has decided to focus all shopping energies on the wonderfully colorful (and necessary) world of makeup. While the thought of scouring one more sale rack turns me nauseous and the mere mention of wearing tweed makes me suffocate, the sleek product counters in my local department store seem to beckon to this overheated, under-spent fashionista.

I consider myself somewhat of a gloss expert, as my everyday cosmetic bag is stocked full of sticks and tins in yummy pinks and ripe corals. However, gloss alone won't suffice. A makeup regimen isn't legit unless it includes the big three - 1.concealer, 2.mascara, 3.lip color (and in that order). And the good news is that while lip colors and textures change, the other 2/3 of the trio don't and for the most part are season-independent (i.e., justifiable anytime) purchases.

At an early age, I was let in on the secret that a touch of mascara would change your face and thus your life. In college, even my effortlessly-chic/party girl roomie never thought about venturing out of the house without concealer (EC/PG: You just don't do it.) Now, I know that there are a few lucky, naturally glamorous, perfectly-skinned girls out there who don't need spot treatment or lash darkener. This article is not for them.

The Cover Up:
1. For the spots. Clinique's Quick Corrector rids your eyes, nose, chin and cheeks of any unsightly lines or spots.
2. Complete cover. It's really important not to skimp on foundation. No one wants it to end up around your neck. Bobbi Brown's Oil-Free Even Finish Foundation is a tried and true favorite. It feels light and stays put all day.
3. Multi-tasker. I swear on my 4-inch stilettos that Smashbox's Foundation Stick is amazing. I'm never without this trusty fix-anything-from-blemish-to-tired-eyes tool. Another all-in-one fave is Cargo's OneBase.

Lashing Out:
Contrary to some belief, not all mascara is created equally. (And FYI you can tell.) Several hours of tissue and remover later, I still stand by the pink and green, but have added a few more to my bag.
1. Lancome's Hypnose Mascara speaks volumes. This miracle wand is the quickest, sure-fire method to get super sexy and full lashes. You could wear this without anything else on your face and look perfect. Promise.
2. Bella's Starlet Mascara (pictured right, $17; www.bellabeauty.net) makes you feel like you belong on the silver screen. A super-thick brushshape banishes all clumps.
3. Finer lashes will love Chanel's Sculpte Cils Longeur Extreme (that's Sculpting Mascara Extreme Length), guaranteed to curl, sculpt and lengthen your lashes.

The lips are the easy part. I'm searching for a London Bus Red for fall.

Happy product hunting. Ta-ta.