My On-the-Go Makeup Must-Haves ...
Fall is hands-down the busiest time of the year for me – from fashion week to back-to-back business trips, September through mid-October feels like living out of a suitcase. Every trip, every show, every meeting demands a makeup bag that’s ready for anything – and since I do my own makeup 99% of the time, it has to be reliable, versatile, and just a little fun.
Over the years, I’ve perfected my travel kit so that no matter where I am – whether it’s a runway, a red carpet, or a quiet hotel room – I can create a polished look in minutes. Here’s a peek inside my fall travel makeup bag and what I always bring along.
Face: A Flawless Base, Without the Weight
I love prepping my skin first – lightweight moisturizers, primers, anything that makes my skin feel fresh and glowy. For foundation, I’ve been reaching for the MAC Studio Fix recently – it gives a perfect base without feeling heavy. Concealer is essential for covering any imperfections, and I usually go for a reliable option like NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer.
Bronzer and blush are non-negotiable – they bring warmth and life to the face. I usually use a cream or stick bronzer, layering with a powder version for longevity. Warm, sun-kissed tones are my go-to: a soft contour in a stick form, plus a liquid or cream blush, finished with a powder bronzer and blush to lock everything in place.
Eyes: From Simple to Statement
For everyday looks, a swipe of bronzer in the crease and a touch of mascara is all I need. Lately, my go-to mascara has been Diorshow, paired with a primer for full, fluffy lashes.
For special occasions like fashion shows or red carpets, I love earthy shadows with a hint of shimmer. Hourglass palettes are perfect for subtle glows, and the Natasha Denona palette is great when I want a bit more drama. Brown liners like Hourglass or Dior help define the corners of the eyes naturally. Brows stay minimal – a few strokes of a pencil and a brush through with a gel keeps them clean and lifted.
Lips: Always Changing, Always Fun
I always start with a long-lasting base like the Wonderskin lip stain, paired with a Huda Beauty lip pencil for definition. From there, I mix and match shades depending on the occasion. A Prada lipstick is always in my bag, and for shine, I love Pat McGrath lip gloss.
Of course, no one packs just a single lipstick or gloss! I always leave room for a few of my other favorite shades – the ones that rotate between my handbags, makeup bags, and travel kits – and I’ve included links to some of my other favorite lip products so you can check them out too.
Alongside my makeup products, I always carry a lip balm to keep my lips nourished overnight and whenever I get the chance. I often use lip treatments as glosses too, for everyday looks.
Shop Makeup Bags
Recent Makeup Looks I’ve Loved
Fashion week makeup look
Red carpet makeup look
Casual dinner makeup look
All the makeup looks you’ve seen in this blog were achieved with the products I’ve shared, and I truly believe anyone can create a look they love with just a little practice. Have fun experimenting with makeup and enjoy the process!
Fall travel may be hectic, but with a curated makeup bag like this, getting ready on the go is effortless. These essentials keep me looking polished, feeling confident, and ready for anything – from fashion week chaos to spontaneous trips.
