Greetings my dears and darlings! It’s Lola, wishing you all health, wealth and happiness on your daily journey. Let’s jump in and kick things off. You’re here for the advice, not to be coddled by an online aunt.
So share your vital details, your/her favorite cosmetics brand, and spell out whatever’s been bothering you and Lola will lend her compassionate ear.
GRACE: Dear Lola, mid-30s, living with partner on the Upper East Side. After wrestling all day with spreadsheets and passive-aggressive emails, how do I let him know that once my evening serum is applied, the sexyfun shop is closed for the evening? I swear by Estée Lauder’s Advanced Night Repair.
Many people are unaware that Estée Lauder is actually an American brand that began in New York. Estée herself mixed and bottled her own concoctions, muscling her way onto upscale department store counters with innovative gift-with-purchase promotions. Through this healthy streak of American persistence, the brand is now the very embodiment of elegance and sophistication.
Based on where you both reside, he’s probably bright enough to handle a blunt explanation. Just devise an opportune moment when your partner is basking in your feminine glow to let him know that elegance and sophistication demand sacrifice. Tell him how with each wrinkle you repair, the horizons of your career and your generous spirit continue to soar. And, once he buys in, don’t forget the signature Estée Lauder gimmick: be prepared to offer him some exclusive sexytime open hours as a special gift with purchase.
MIA: Nontraditional couple here. Both in our mid 20s. I’m a UX designer, pursuing singing on the side, and she’s a nurse. I love her to bits. She’s the rock to my roll. But, dammit, how can I get her to stop using my signature shade of MAC’s Retro-Matte Ruby Woo?
MAC are the champions of individuality and self-expression. Founded in Toronto, Canada in 1984 by makeup artist and photographer Frank Toskan and salon owner Frank Angelo, they quickly became popular for embracing diversity and catering to makeup professionals and enthusiasts with a wide range of shades for every skin tone. It’s easy to understand how a budding songstress like yourself finds inspiration in your own personal palette of MAC products.
Perhaps instead of seeing her behavior as stealing the shine from your personal brand, what about investing some effort in helping her discover her own inner peacock? Nurses often neglect caring for themselves and, with all the support I’m sure she shows for your talent and creativity, you could surely sacrifice a day at the mall to help her explore and discover her own unique flair. Who better to have on your side as a personal style consultant than the one who cares the most? And doesn’t every artist love the promise of a blank canvas?
PHILIP: I met a lovely Japanese lady at a friend’s party whom I assumed was around the same age as our hostess. I was already attracted, but when I found out we were the same age… I don’t know. I got a little intimidated. Like, is she a witch or something? I swear she looks 20 years younger. What’s my best approach to ask her out? I saw her rub her hands with some moisturizing cream that had an Asian name.
Philip, Philip, Philip. Thou shouldst not have been old till thou hadst been wise.
Maybe your lady was using Shiseido. Shiseido was first founded as a pharmacy in 1872, and evolved into a cosmetic giant known for its focus on science and elegance. Shiseido’s commitment to research and development sets it apart from its competitors. The brand has a long history of incorporating cutting-edge science and technology into its products, often pioneering new advancements in skincare and cosmetics, while still maintaining aspects of traditional Japanese aesthetics through its packaging, branding and innovative product formulations
My short advice to you: if you’re intimidated by looks or age, she’s probably out of your league. Men who get thrown off when they find their old routines don’t work the same on mature foxes as they once did on spring chicks need to grow up. The same goes for people who employ different strategies of engagement according to race or culture. While it’s true that many Asians appear to defy the ravages of time, how gracefully one ages is generally a combination of factors, including diet, lifestyle, genetics, climate and temperament.
And who knows? Behind that flawless porcelain complexion, she could end up being a shallow bimbo. But if you’re dead set on making an approach, try owning your discomfort and instead of trying to overcompensate, offer to share something personal out of genuine interest, like a hobby or a secret spot in the city. Good luck.
JAVIER: Since my GF moved in, she’s completely taken over the bathroom with all her skincare stuff. I’m down to a cup with just my razor and a toothbrush. And the crazy thing is she’s one of those natural beauties who hardly wears any makeup at all! I see all these bottles and vials just labeled “Ordinary,” so maybe she’s conducting secret alchemical experiments? Honestly, I just want to get some space back so I don’t feel like I’m living in a hostel.
The Ordinary, you may be interested to learn, is a revolutionary cosmetics brand started in 2016 by a computer scientist appalled by the high markups and bewildering mystique around luxury brand cosmetics. The company aimed to democratize skincare by offering high-quality, science-backed products at affordable prices. All items come in plain packaging with the active ingredients listed directly on the product. This has created an enthusiastic following of educated brand fanatics who feel empowered to share tips and information online, while making more informed skincare decisions.
First: I guess you didn’t have sisters. You’ve made the rookie boyfriend error of mistaking “natural” beauty for “effortless.” Healthy, natural beauty requires sacrifice! Do you think eating healthy and working out also just “naturally” happen? Appreciate the fact you have a genetically blessed partner who goes the extra mile to preserve and maintain her most beautiful assets.
Now, as to the issue of your rapidly vanishing counter space: best not to treat it like a hostile takeover. Organization is key! So perhaps a few clear drawers or hanging organizers can help you feel as if you won’t accidentally knock over a vial of unicorn tears, while giving ample reverence to your partner’s need to indulge in self-care.
Looking for advice on your own relationship issues? Or just a sympathetic soul with waterproof mascara suggestions, so he notices that you’re upset without ruining your gorgeous face?
Drop your details in the comments, along with your personal favorite skincare or cosmetics brand, to help me get a handle on the inner YOU.
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Hi, my favorite mascara and concealer are by Maybelline, especially the waterproof, it works pretty well with the rain in the Netherlands! 😀