From the time we were old enough to apply lipstick without getting it all over our chins and the bathroom walls, our mamas have taught us the importance of putting our best faces forward. They preach that “pretty is as pretty does,” but that a swipe of lipstick and a little blush never hurt, either. When it comes to our beauty routines, we Southern gals love the classics, sticking with the tried-and-true products our Mamas have loved for years. Sure, every once in a while, we’ll try the newest beauty fad (looking at you, bubble masks) or experiment with the latest trends (here’s to you, highlighter), but most of the time, we like to stick with our foolproof old faithfuls. Here, we’ve rounded up the beauty products that every Southern woman should own.
An Everyday Lip Color
Whether you’re heading to work or rolling through the carpool line, a little lip color, be it muted mauve or pretty plum, instantly revs up an otherwise subdued look. And if you have to make a quick trip to the Piggly Wiggly in your sweatshirt and leggings (heaven forbid!), a dynamite lip color can distract from flat hair and weekend clothes. Score!
Red Lipstick
While a subtler hue is the ticket for daily wear, nothing feels more celebratory or festive for a night out than a classic red lip. The perfect shade of red delivers retro glamour in spades, and it flatters every skin tone.
A Moisturizer with SPF
Protect your skin by kick-starting your makeup routine with a moisturizer that’s loaded with sun protection. Not only will your skin feel soft throughout the day, you’ll be shielding your face from the sun (and the wrinkles and lines that come with it). Win-win.
A Signature Scent
Forgetting your spritz of perfume before you walk out the door is akin to forgetting to slide on your rings or leaving your purse at home – you just feel naked! Whether you’re a fan of golden oldies like Elizabeth Taylor’s White Diamonds or you’re charting newer fragrance territory with Chloé’s Eau de Parfum, a trademark scent is a staple of Southern beauty icons. (And it never hurts that perfume bottles look especially lovely on your vanity.)
A Go-To Nail Polish
Every Friday, for as long as I can remember, my grandmother went to see Miss Mona for a manicure. And while I’m sure she changed up the color every now and then, I only ever remember her wearing OPI’s Bubble Bath. The frothy pink is now a favorite among all the women in my family, and my cousin even wore it on her wedding day. Of course, it’s fun to switch things up and try new polishes at the salon (goodness knows there are a multitude to choose from!), but when it comes to especially important days, it’s nice to know you’ve already got a color you can count on.
