Holiday season is upon us, marked by snowy temperatures (flurries are falling in NYC as I type this), twinkling storefronts, and loads of gift-giving inspiration. A quick Google search will leave you with no less than 600 must-have lists, but we pride ourselves in knowing the chicest buys here at Who What Wear, whether it’s for the friend who always hosts a killer dinner party, the friend who has an eye for little luxuries, the friend who is on the prowl for new perfume, or the friend who loves snuggling up on the couch for a night in. When we need inspiration ourselves, we turn to the coolest experts on our roster. Enter the one and only Patrick Ta.
Call me nosy, but I’ve been wondering what the iconic makeup artist and brand founder has been eyeing for the holidays. I asked him to divulge his personal wish list, and boy, did he deliver. Of course, he mentions a couple of best-selling recs from his eponymous brand (the eye shadow and blush duos are truly stunning), but he also rattles off some of the most underrated gems I now will be adding to my cart ASAP. That mango sticky rice fragrance is calling my name!
Here, browse Ta’s gift guide for the beauty lovers. If “fun, glamorous, and practical” sounds like your tagline, his curated list was practically tailor-made for you.
(Image credit: Sephora; Design credit: Jamie Brown)
1. RXLA Mango Sticky Rice: Travel Rollerball Perfume
RXLA
Mango Sticky Rice: Travel Rollerball Perfume
As soon as Ta spotted this perfume at the Melrose flea market, he was sold. “I knew I needed it in my life,” he says. “It fits right into my carry-on and comes with me everywhere. It’s such a unique, fruity scent that I’m obsessed with.”
2. NuFace Trinity+ Starter Kit
NuFace
Trinity+ Smart Advanced Facial Toning Device Starter Kit
Consider Ta yet another beauty expert enamored by the viral microcurrent device. “If you want to take your skin prep to the next level, the NuFace is my go-to,” he says. “It’s an essential step in my routine, helping to sculpt and lift the face perfectly before applying makeup.” When it comes to beauty gift sets, this is a great one for you or a loved one. Right now, you can even snag one in a limited-edition Velvet Rose colorway.
3. Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm
Summer Fridays
Lip Butter Balm
“Something everyone should add to their lists is this Lip Butter Balm,” says Ta. “Ever since I tried it, it does not leave my side. It preps the lips so beautifully, and the flavors are endless and so fun.” You heard the expert!
4. IS Clinical Cleansing Complex
iS Clinical
Cleansing Complex
Ta calls this gentle wash a true multitasker. “It’s a face cleanser, makeup remover, and toner all in one,” he explains. “It leaves my skin so smooth and is a staple I recommend to anyone looking for a do-it-all cleanser.”
5. Patrick Ta Beauty Major Dimension Eye Illusion Eyeshadow Duo
Patrick Ta Beauty
Major Dimension Eye Illusion Eyeshadow Duo
“These shimmery duos are really like the holidays in a palette,” says Ta. “The shine on these isn’t like anything else and looks great to complete any holiday look, especially New Year’s Eve.” I’m partial to this champagne and copper pair, but you really can’t go wrong with any of the five stunning combinations.
6. Beautyblender Original Beautyblender Makeup Sponge
Beautyblender
Original Beautyblender Makeup Sponge
A classic! “Although it’s nothing big, the Beautyblender is a true staple to me. I cannot go on without it and would want as many gifted to me as possible because I’m truly always reaching for one,” notes Ta. There’s no better time to stock up.
7. One/Size On ‘Til Dawn Mattifying Waterproof Setting Spray
One/Size
On ‘Til Dawn Mattifying Waterproof Setting Spray
There’s a reason this formula won “best overall” in our deeper-than-deep review of the best setting sprays: It works. It keeps your makeup looking good as new for over 10 hours, which is a must for a pro like Ta, who is known for crafting immaculate beats. “This setting spray is something I’m always reaching for,” he gushes. “It provides nonstop hold and keeps your makeup looking fresh for the holidays.”
8. Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen
Supergoop!
Unseen Sunscreen Invisible Broad Spectrum SPF 40
“This is, for me, one of the most perfect makeup bases,” Ta shared in a recent Instagram post. In addition to a lightweight consistency that leaves zero white cast or oily residue, this sunscreen has a subtle blurring effect on the skin. Talk about a multitasker! “With foundation or without, your skin looks amazing,” Ta adds.
9. Patrick Ta Beauty Major Headlines Double-Take Crème & Powder Blush Duo
Patrick Ta
Major Headlines Double-Take Crème & Powder Blush Duo
Ta is well-known for his polarizing cream-over-powder blush technique, and let me just say it’s magic. Typically, layering cream over powder is a recipe for pilling, but with Ta’s gorgeous formulas, it just works. No wonder he calls it “the must-have blush duo for every makeup collection,” especially for those looking for a long-lasting, radiant glow.
10. UltraSonic Ultra 300-Digital Pro
UltraSonic
Ultra 300-Digital Pro
Honestly, this is such an underrated gift for the holidays! For the loved one who adores everything sparkly, why not give them this tabletop ultrasonic cleaner with a statement necklace or pair of earrings? “I highly recommend Ultrasonic if you are looking for an easy way to keep your jewelry looking brand-new,” says Ta. It even has a clear-view window so you can literally see the grime dissolving off your favorite gems, which is gross but also satisfying.
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