Finding love in this era of dating apps is like finding a needle in a haystack. I love love, but sometimes you need to screen before you date. Why? Well…I remember the exact moment my boyfriend said he preferred women who didn’t wear makeup.
It was like a scene from a cliché rom-com, where the record scratches and everything stops. I’m single now – it was a no-brainer.
Makeup has been a way to express myself, for as long as I can remember. As someone with a lot of acne that flares up at the slightest change in weather, it made me feel confident and more in control of my appearance.
And one of my favourite feelings in the world? When another woman compliments my perfect eyeliner. She knows how long it took for me to get the line straight, how many times I had to wipe it off and redo it and may have even risked looking like a Panda. And while I don’t expect a man to understand any of it, I do expect him to not critise it. And especially not a man I was with.
In a world where women are constantly scrutinised and moulded to fit into preconceived notions of beauty, my ex-boyfriend’s comment was a drop in a bucket of outdated stereotypes. But it was also the last straw. Why should I change myself and the things I love for anyone?
Being true to oneself is not just a statement; it’s a daily practice. So, instead of wallowing, I celebrated my newfound singlehood with a trip to Sephora. And oh, was it therapeutic!
Everything I Bought To Celebrate My Breakup
The first thing I got was the NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturiser SPF30 to cover up my blemishes and past mistakes – including dating him.
Next up, a strong red lipstick like the MyGlamm POUT by Karan Johar to leave a lasting impression on every coffee cup and cocktail glass, just like my ex left his stuff all over my apartment (I’m keeping everything.)
Now, because I intend to glow brighter than my future was looking with him I also splurged for this gorgeous Benefit highlighter – it’s been on my mind for years!
I also got this smudge-proof brown eyeliner because I know I’ll be crying the next time he calls me, but the world doesn’t need to know.
Another lip gloss to keep my lips smooth and ready for new kisses, instead of dealing with his dry excuses.
Self-love and Sephora hauls spell my type of happy ending. Because honestly, the only person I need to look beautiful for is the one staring back at me in the mirror. Here’s to staying fabulous on my own terms – no man’s approval needed!
Featured Image: Pexels
