Gray skies, harsh winds, slushy streets…no offense, winter, but you ain’t the prettiest season there is. Once we get to January, I start to feel like I’ve lost my luster entirely. (Hey, a girl can only endure so many nights that start at 4:30 pm before she starts to forget what a summer breeze feels like.) One’s instinct might be to layer on the bronzer and self-tanner in search of a bit of that long-lost summery color, but I always feel that trying to create a faux tan in the dead of winter is a losing game. My solution? Blush. Blush has always been one of my favorite product categories of all time. I mean, who can resist pretty powders, gels and creams in poppy shades of pink, red and coral? The tulips may not be out for a good few months, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t deck yourself out in the shades of spring right now! Click ahead for my favorite pretty potions, and let me know which one you decide to take for a spin!
featured image by david slijper for elle france via fashion gone rogue
Vincent Longo Lip & Cheek Gel Stain in My Sunshine
This light stain comes in multiple shades, but I particularly love this peachy-red shade aptly named “My Sunshine.” If you’re looking for a little sunlight in a tube, look no further than this super long-lasting gel.
Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blush in Diffused Heat
For a pop of color that still looks natural, try this swirled blush that balances a rosy rouge with golden highlighter. The result: a lightly shimmering wash of color.
Dior Cheek & Lip Glow
Worried about which blush shade to choose? Reach for this luxurious new gel from Dior that infuses lips and cheeks with a customized flush.
Stila Exclusive Convertible Color Palette
The only thing better than Stila Convertible Color‘s pretty little individual compacts filled with super-pigmented cream blush? This behemoth that rounds them all up for your mixing and matching pleasure.
RMS Beauty Lip2Cheek in Beloved
Sure, this all-natural pick looks intimidating in the pot, but just a dab of this coral-red cream will perk your winter skin right up.
Laura Geller Baked Blush Monochromatic Cheek Color in Malibu
The perfect everyday blush, this satiny powder creates a lit-from-within glow.
Josie Maran Argan Infinity Lip and Cheek Creamy Oil
Make over your winter-ravaged cheeks with a dab of this nourishing oil stain — the product sinks right into your skin for a hydrated glow that lasts.