If you're like most people out there, you're probably sick of making New Year's resolutions that either don't last or are full of clichés. Gym memberships? Meh. More salads? Ugh.
The biggest mistake most people make is setting goals for themselves that create too much stress. Working out more is beneficial in theory, but when you make a resolution to hit the gym every day before 6 am, you're setting yourself up for failure and disappointment.
New Year's resolutions should be a little self-absorbed and definitely focused on making you feel good. It's also not a bad idea to push yourself to step outside your comfort zone. A little inner challenge never hurt anyone.
Here's another secret: Sometimes, the key to a fresh start is simply feeling fresh. By giving yourself an outward boost, you're setting the tone for a brand new chapter.
Instead of worrying about eating a salad every day of the week or eliminating carbs, cut yourself a little slack and select moderation with a side of Sephora. Try your hand at some beauty resolutions this year; start January off with a fresh 'do or some new products.
Here are five fabulous glamour moves to try in 2015. Don't hesitate to wink at yourself in the mirror afterward.
1. Learn once and for all the difference between BB cream and CC cream, and then commit.
The Quick Skinny: BB cream is like a power team for your face; it acts as a primer, moisturizer and foundation all at once.
The "CC" in CC cream stands for color corrective, and adds ingredients that will balance out your skin tone, in addition to working as a foundation, moisturizer, sunscreen and primer. CC cream is great for ladies who have a bit of red in their cheeks, or who would like to smooth out any uneven spots.
It's a lot to take in, and now there's also a DD cream (which stands for "dermatologically defining" or "daily defense," depending upon who you ask).
If you haven't tried any of these products yet, you're in for an eye-opening experience. You will definitely notice a dramatic difference in your skin's appearance with the help of one of these creams, and you'll appreciate the glow that comes with the application.
If you've got some cash to spend, try Diorskin Nude BB creme, found at any Sephora. If you're on a budget, check out Maybelline's "Wonder Bright" CC cream, which you can find at most drug stores.
2. Steady your hand and perfect the cat eye
Black eyeliner will never go out of style; it's basically a beauty law. The look has been solidified in fashion stone by celebs like Angelina Jolie and Sophia Loren, and is perfect for any night out.
The look is best obtained with the use of liquid liner, which obviously requires your hands to be as still as a statue. For an inexpensive standard liquid liner pen, try the Sephora Collection Long Lasting Eyeliner.
If you need a little help, try Benefit's They're Real! Push Up Liner. This liner comes in the form of a tipped pen, which is easier to manage than a brush.
If that still won't cut it, try a cream-based eyeliner in a pot, like Eye Paint by Nars. With this type of liner, you simply dip a brush into the cream and then connect dots close to your lash line. This method is great for gals who struggle with liquid liner, but still want the sexy feline look.
3. Go "red lip classic"
As T-Swift knows, red lips will always be cool. If you've been fearful of trying this color, now is your chance to break out of your lipstick comfort zone and embrace the rosy hue.
One of the best things about red lipstick is that it requires minimal effort on the rest of your face. You don't want to pair ruby lips with smoky eyes (hello, overdone!), so all you need is a touch of mascara and you're good to go. Donning the red lips look is a great way to quickly look amazing.
Carrie Bradshaw would probably agree that Chanel is the way to go here, so if you've got the cash to spend, invest in Chanel Rouge Allure Velvet.
Other honorable mentions: Bite Beauty VIP Rouge Lipstick and NARS Audacious Lipstick
If you're not willing to splurge just yet, check out your drugstore's supply of Revlon Moon Drops.
4. Get those eyebrows on fleek
Cara Delevingne is the perfect example of brow envy. If you're yearning for tailored brows, do some research, find a good salon and indulge in a threading appointment. Your brows will thank you.
If you're of the "over-plucked in high school" camp, you are not alone. Many of us went tweezer-happy in 10th grade and are suffering the consequences. In that case, invest in a good brow kit to help darken those babies and fill in the gaps.
Sephora sells a great mini kit called the Eyebrow Editor. It comes with pressed powder, an angle brush, setting brow wax, a spoolie brush and a mini tweezer. It is the perfect quick-fix for sad brows.
If you feel like splurging a little more, check out Too Faced's Brow Envy kit. Even if your teenage self didn't anticipate the brow revolution that is currently sweeping fashion, you can still remedy whatever damage has been done with the help of some friends.
