Choosing Better: Refined Beauty, Skincare-First Makeup & Well-Chosen Favorites

There comes a season in life where you begin choosing differently.

Not louder.
Not trendier.
Just… better.

Refinement starts to matter more than accumulation. What earns a place in your routine, your makeup bag, your closet — and what quietly falls away.

Less clutter.
Fewer “almost right” products.
More pieces that feel intentional, confidence-giving, and easy to return to.

This way of thinking is what inspired my weekly email edit — a curated space for beauty guidance, studio notes, and well-chosen favorites. This blog post is here to support that edit and to live on as a resource you can come back to anytime.

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Skincare-First Beauty at Beauty Mix Studio

Clean Makeup & Confidence-Building Habits for Teens and Adults

With teens and young adults home for the holidays, I’ve been seeing more of them in the studio — often with their moms or sisters. These appointments are some of my favorites.

Early beauty experiences don’t need to be complicated.
They need to feel supportive, age-appropriate, and rooted in good habits.

At Beauty Mix Studio, my philosophy is simple:

Skin first. Makeup second. Always.

When skincare comes first, makeup enhances rather than covers. Confidence grows naturally, without pressure to follow trends or look “done.”

This approach works for:

• Teens just starting their beauty journey

• Young adults learning everyday makeup

• Women who want polished, natural results without heaviness

→ Explore in-studio beauty services

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The Blush Teens (and Women) Are Asking For

ColorLuxe Liquid Blush by Jane Iredale

One of the most requested makeup products in the studio right now is ColorLuxe Liquid Blush.

Why it works so well:

• Weightless, breathable formula

• Natural, skin-like glow

• Easy to apply and blend

• Enhances healthy skin instead of masking it

The model shown is wearing Sugar Magnolia, and my two best-selling shades are:

• Heartbreaker

• Sugar Magnolia

Both shades are universally flattering and especially beautiful on younger skin — but just as loved by women who want fresh, modern color.

→ Watch the blush application video
→ Shop ColorLuxe Liquid Blush

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Watching Seasons Change

December held two birthdays — just one day apart.

My granddaughter Winnie turned one on December 21.
The day before, my son John Henry turned 25.

One just beginning.
One fully becoming.

It was a reminder of how quickly seasons change — and how meaningful it is to pause long enough to notice them. These moments influence how I think about beauty, too. It’s not about chasing what’s next, but honoring where you are.

→ View the Instagram post here

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Well-Chosen Favorites

Tried, Loved, and Shared

This section reflects the same philosophy behind my studio work: fewer things, better choices.

DKNY Ribbed Half-Zip Pullover

Luxurious feel, polished look, and incredibly comfortable. Stylish enough for jeans, cozy enough for everyday wear. I’ve worn it constantly and always receive compliments.
→ Shop the pullover

Kitsch Hair Perfume Discovery Set

Four sample-size hair perfumes that smell beautiful and actually eliminate odor, not just mask it. Gifted to me by my daughter and now a staple.
→ Shop the set

Rainier High-Rise Leggings

My go-to winter leggings. Warmer than summer styles but breathable enough for all-day wear. Comfortable, flattering, and practical.
→ Shop the leggings

The Vivienne Dress by Avara

A versatile, feminine dress you can wear now with a sweater coat and later into spring and summer. Perfect for work, fundraising events, lunches, or dinner out.
→ Shop the dress

Chunky Gold Earrings

14k gold-plated and an easy Amazon find. Simple, polished, and wearable for everyday or dressier moments.
→ Shop the earrings

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Join the Weekly Email Edit

The weekly email edit is where I share:

• Studio insights and beauty education

• Skincare-first makeup guidance

• Well-chosen fashion and beauty finds

• Thoughtful reflections on confidence and simplicity

If this post resonated with you, I’d love for you to be part of it.

Opt in to the weekly email edit here]

Thank you for being here — and for supporting this new chapter. Choosing better has a way of feeling quieter, calmer, and more confident.

With warmth,
Leanne
Beauty Mix Studio