In today's world, women research fashion magazines and beauty blogs to learn about the best lipsticks, lengthening mascaras, miracle-working face creams, and trusted brands. And who could blame them? In a competitive market saturated by too many products and too many promises, it helps to know what's actually worth applying to our faces.
If you're looking to revamp and refresh your overstuffed makeup bag, you're in the right place. In our next installment of What's in My Beauty Bag, we spoke with iconic Austin jewelry designer Kendra Scott to find out her tried-and-true beauty tricks, favorite brands, skincare routine, and more. Here's a peek inside her beauty bag.
CultureMap: What is your beauty mantra and how do you embrace it?
Kendra Scott: No outfit is complete without a pop of color. I love to play up my beauty looks with a fun shade of lipstick.
CM: Let's say I'm looking through your makeup bag. What would I find?
KS: I have a few makeup essentials with me at all times. The new blotterazzi by beautyblender is my latest must-have. It's great for touch-ups when I'm on the go, which I usually am. I adore my Nars blush, Armani bronzer, and I always have a small army of MAC lipsticks and glosses on hand.
CM: Any brands or products you swear by?
KS: YSL Touche Eclat works like magic for brightening up under the eyes, and I use the MAC prep + prime fix+ to refresh my look throughout the day. Once a week I apply the HydroPeptide Purifying Mask in the evening. It leaves my skin with a beautiful, healthy glow.
CM: What are you top five makeup goods?
KS: Nars blush in orgasm; Laura Mercier's bronze primer, which is perfect for a quick sun-kissed glow; Lancome Definicils mascara; Charlotte Tilbury Filmstar Bronze & Glow; and the Anastasia brow powder duo to finish off my favorite classic beauty look.
CM: Describe your morning beauty routine.
KS: I like to decide on my outfit beforehand, then I let my clothes and jewelry give the inspiration for my makeup and hair. I follow the six essential beauty steps: cleanse, tone, moisturize, sunscreen, primer, and makeup application.
CM: How has your beauty regimen changed over the years?
KS: Over the years, bold brows and contouring have become big trends in the beauty industry. I love how a strong eyebrow frames the face and how a bit of contouring can add just enough definition to take your look to the next level.
CM: Who are your beauty icons?
KS: My mom has been my lifelong beauty icon. From a young age I can remember her teaching me her favorite beauty tips and tricks. She worked in the beauty industry and had a lot of wisdom to share, but nothing makes me admire my mother more than her inner beauty.
CM: What beauty era is inspiring you at the moment?
KS: I have always had an affinity for the old Hollywood glamour look of the '50s. While I love to be adventurous with trends in my clothes and accessories, I love to stick with the classic and timeless nature of the beauty in that era.
CM: Okay, you're in a rush and only have five minutes to throw on a face. What is your go-to look?
KS: Colorescience is a must. It's a three-in-one product that brightens, corrects, and protects with SPF 50. Plus, it has a subtle touch of coverage and color to give my skin a natural glow. Then with a bit of eye brightener, bronzer, mascara, and a pop of lipstick, I'm out the door.
Kendra Scott shares what's in her beauty bag.
Texas-based artist Kyle Steed adds to the local appeal of the new Highland Village store. Photos courtesy of Lululemon 
