What's in Zoe Damecela's Cosmetics Bag?

"Beautiful clothes for beautiful people," promises Zoe Damecela, the fabulous fashion designer who has graced the likes of the Oval Office, The Tyra Banks Show, Oprah, the cover of Seventeen magazine, Charleston Fashion Week, and now our very own Charleston Grit! 

Sitting across from her in the green room of CFW a few months ago, I was enchanted by more than just the pure gorgeousness of this young inspiration in fabulous heels. I was taken by her charm, her ambition, and of course, her story. 

Zoe Damacela, a sophomore at Northwestern University, has spent her life starting and maintaining entrepreneurial businesses with little assistance from parents or teachers. From being homeless to being recognized by the President, and now running a fashion empire, she does it with style, dignity, and the precision of a true creator. Keep up the sunscreen my darling, I tell her, and your youth will keep up with everything else.

We spoke of fashion and inspiration, but my mind of makeup was reeling with visions of her lush lashes, her pop of pink on the lip, her flawless skin, and of course the luminosity that only youthfulness can bring. (aka in the beauty world, using the right products.)

With only minutes left to chat, I still had so many questions. What beauty fixes were in that stylish little bag of hers? What are her secrets?

Well, I found out. Using Facebook as our fashion mediator, I got to the bottom of her cosmetics bag.... So here it is for all you cosmetic thrill seekers or just plain nosy Bettys (I may be all or none of the of above):

BEAUTY ROUTINE “On a regular school day, I keep my makeup pretty minimal and only spend five minutes or less getting ready for class. But for a fashion show or special event I usually spend about 20 minutes on makeup.” 

FAVORITE PRODUCTS Make Up Forever's Smoky Lash mascara, Maybelline's Falsies mascara, Urban Decay's Waterproof Eyeliner, Medusa's Makeup eyeshadows, MAC Morange lipstick, and YSL Provocative Pink lipstick.

HOT TIPS

1. While traveling or on busy days, use a waterproof liquid eyeliner for a classic cat eye that won't smudge or rub off.

2. Keep an eyelash curler in your purse to refresh yourself and awaken your eyes even when you haven't slept all week.

3. Apply pink blush to the tops of your cheeks rather than the sides for a younger, fresher look.

Cheers  Zoe for your time, your tips, and for letting us have a peek into your world of beauty. Good luck to you, congratulations, and thank you for making this world not only a better a place, but also a better looking place to be!

Xoxo