4.22.2015

Ask Elle: Foundations & Frustrations


A few years ago I used to do an Ask Elle series. I switched it to a yearly video where I answered any and all personal as well as beauty questions. I've decided to combine the two and bring back the series. I'll answer one beauty and one personal question weekly for the next month (or more, if you like).




Shireen asks: If there is only one foundation that you can choose to use everyday for the rest of your life, what would be it?

Having dry skin, I tend to love a dewy finish, so I'd chose Guerlain Lingerie de Peau. Pricey, but gorgeous. Don't believe me? I wore it in this Instagram pic yesterday. NO FILTER, no editing, and no highlighter. And I'm wearing two of the Japonesque lipsticks I shared yesterday mixed together to make this gorgeous red. Mixing lipsticks together was one of my first beauty "inventions" as a kid. I think we all did this when we were little! My Grandmother had her own makeup line in the 80s, so I've always had access to fun makeup, nails, and hair stuff.


Claire asks: What are your biggest blogging frustrations?

I love having the interaction from my readers by them leaving comments. However, I think the tone of some of the comments that I get can sound negative, and I don't think people realize their tone sometimes comes across that way. It's different from a difference in opinion. I think it's something that not all types of blogs encounter.

I share beauty products, tips, and tutorials that come from over 35 years of a love for all things beauty. I never suggest a product or tip without it being throughly tested. I am dedicated and do this because I love it.

But there is no way that what I suggest will work for everyone. We are all different. I appreciate the uniqueness of us all. I appreciate constructive criticism. We all get negative comments on blogs and in life.

Now how about instead of "I hated that product!" "I don't like this tutorial" "You have too much makeup!" "Why didn't you like that product? You're using it wrong!" or "I would never buy an expensive foundation" (just picking some examples) why not choose another way to word it? Just something to consider, but know I am thankful for your comments and you choosing to spend a little of your day with me here on the blog.

Take a style blog for example. She is wearing a lovely outfit and killer shoes. The comments are positive, focusing on the overall. She is gorgeous, the outfit is gorgeous, the shoes are gorgeous, instead of commenting on how she has too many shoes, that her outfit is ugly, that you would never buy something so expensive, or that you would never wear that. See the difference?

It has me wondering if I am more prone to negative-toned comments because I don't post my picture every day, like a style blogger pretty much has to. Is there a reader disconnect? Is the commenter less likely to leave a negative comment because she sees the blogger's face daily?

What do you think? Keep the conversation going (I love comments!) below!


I'd love to hear your favorite foundation or your blogging frustrations.
Please leave your questions below to be featured in a future Ask Elle if you'd like!






56 comments:

  1. I really hope I've never left a comment like that on anyone's blog without realizing it! I'm pretty sure I would never do that because since I have a blog too, I wouldn't want someone to do that to me! And just in general I would never be rude like that. I don't know why people do such things. If they think a product is horrible, why dont they realize that just because it didn't work for them, doesn't mean it's horrible. Also why would they even read blogs if they are so bothered by the fact that high end makeup is too expensive.
    Haha just thought I would add my thoughts on that even though it turned into a rant! But I'm glad you touched on the subject!

    Also you look super gorgeous in that picture. I'll have to check out that foundation!

    I like the idea of the ask Elle posts! My question wouls be how do you keep things organized for your blog? I feel like yours so so professional and organized and I feel like mine is all over the place a lot!

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  2. I cannot imagine the kind of tough skin you need to have to deal with such negative comments!! I mean, if someone doesn't like something, why can't they just move on? Commenting with rude and sarcastic remarks doesn't do anything for anyone and I don't understand why people don't get that.

    You, girl, are gorgeous and I, for one, am very glad that I get to read about the beauty things you talk about -- since I am a complete fool when it comes to makeup and such, haha.

    Keep doing you, sweets! <3 xo

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  3. I've heard such wonderful things about the Guerlain foundation, but have never tried it. I guess I figured it wouldn't be as much coverage as I think I need, but it does look pretty on you. I may go ask for a sample. My biggest foundation frustration is wearing it over sunscreen. I know we're supposed to, but the sunscreen seems to mess the foundation up. How do you deal with this? I never understand negative comments. If you're not into makeup and skincare, why read a makeup blog? Don't let 'em get you down and just keep doing what you're doing.

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  4. I love this series! And always need beauty rec. I just recently started wearing foundation and am still trying to find one that I love so I'll check this one out. As far as the frustrations go, I totally feel ya! I'm not a beauty blogger but I work in the public eye on a radio morning show and i'm constantly frustrated with feed back. You get to a point where you just have to ignore the negative stuff and accept that you can't and won't make everyone happy. Keep on keeping on, you're great at what you do!

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  5. I know it can be frustrating as a beauty blogger, but i think you are doing an amazing job. Keep up the good work Elle! My biggest problem with foundation is flaking. My forehead flakes very easily, so I am trying to find a foundation that helps. I will have to try your suggestion!
    xo, Whitney and Blaire
    Peaches In A Pod

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  6. Despite the negative comments which may come in from time to time (and, seriously, aren't those just the absolute worst?), you are doing such a killer job in the advice and tips that you give. I am totally hooked!!!!

    Courtney ~ Sartorial Sidelines

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  7. Eeek! I really hope that none of my comments have ever had a negative tone because that is not what I am going for AT ALL! I definitely understand you try to have something for everyone on your blog and while some of it aren't things I would necessarily purchase, I've gotten so much great advice and ideas from you!

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  8. I love your tips and tricks. Some are too tricky for simple old me but I love learning how other people get ready, what other people wear for make up and of course hair prep. I always try to respond to something I might try instead of saying something about the parts I won't try, if that makes sense. I can tell how much work you put into your posts and I love reading them every day! :)

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  9. Very interesting post! Such a shame you get some negative comments. I think sometimes people think because they hide behind a computer, they have the right to be rude or judgemental. Really sad! I haven't got to this stage where people say negative things to me yet but I know one day it will happen, as that's just how some people are, unfortunately. I believe in "if you don't like the post, then just don't comment". I hope you manage to not let it get to you in the future. Let the haters be haters, like they say. They're not worth it. xx

    Renata | Speaking Beauty UK

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  10. Some people are simply negative people and feel the need to express their negativity. It's hard to control tone, but certainly possible. Whatever happened to saying something only if it's nice?
    Otherwise, I really love Hourglass immaculate foundation. I want to try the Guerlain though!

    xoxo,
    little luxury list formerly Chic 'n Cheap Living

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  11. So true, Elle. It is never ok to leave negative comments on blogs! I always think, "Well, why are you even reading it if you don't like it?" I do think beauty blogs get more of this snark than other ones:( (((hugs))))

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  12. Thank you so much for answering my question, Elle! I've not even heard of that foundation before but wow, the finish is gorgeous on you.

    And on the matter of negative comments...I've no idea why some do that, why some can't be appreciative for a good and informative post but I personally could never do that to anyone. I agree with Renata, if you don't like a post then don't comment, leave the negativity aside and don't be an ass.

    Love you, Elle and keep on doing what you do. xx

    Shireen | Reflection of Sanity

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  13. That foundation looks amazing on you! Not sure if a dewy finish woukd work with my EXTREMELY oily skin though. Ew why are people so nasty?! It just doesn't make sense! Keep your negativity to yourself! We are only trying to help!

    <3 Shannon
    Upbeat Soles

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  14. Your picture is amazing, you look fabulous! I really used to like foundation, and it's a phase - sometimes I don't wear it, sometimes I go back. So I loved your suggestion, cause you said you would choose the Lingerie De Peau forever... now I want to test it! Thank you for that - I will go to an online shop now, eager to buy it, such a great suggestion!
    DenisesPlanet.com

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  15. Ew I hate negative people. What happened to "if you have nothing nice to say, don't say anything at all?" I happen to find your recommendations, tips and DIYs really helpful. I think the reason you started your blog is beautiful and honest. I hope you can push past those meanies and continue to be you. (:

    ps. I have an oily t zone, HUGE pores on my cheeks and I'm acne prone. I almost always have to use a mattefying foundation, but this leaves my under eyes looking dull. Concealer only makes it more dull looking and cakes over the already matte foundation. Any suggestions?

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  16. These are great tips and I love your lip color!
    Melanie @ meandmr.com

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  17. I love that foundation on you - sometimes when you find one that works wonders is worth the pricey tag!! xo, Biana - BlovedBoston

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  18. It is really frustrating to receive negative comments, especially when you DO share a range of products and looks and it's something based on just ONE of those looks! Keep doing what you're doing girl - like you said, you'll never please everyone, but you are providing extremely useful advice for many of us!!!

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  19. Ok so clearly that foundation looks amazing!! And we totally feel you on the negative comments. But you just said it, there's no way to please everyone. Please yourself, be happy with that, and understand that it's ok for others to feel differently. Extra love to you today!!

    xx 365Hangers

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  20. Well believe it or not, even on my blog I've gotten negative comments. Sometimes people just want to argue! My thought (on life in general) is that people are always finding things to be pretentious about. I usually shrug off negative comments though, unless I feel like engaging in a bit of a debate! ;)

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  21. I always try to be positive and read everything with an open mind. Even if I haven't personally used a product or am not sure it would work for me, I enjoy learning about others' perspectives and experiences. For example, I usually don't spend a lot on foundation, but the one you featured here looks and sounds so awesome, I'm going to check it out! I definitely consider you a beauty expert and love reading your blog as a trusted, helpful source of advice.

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  22. You look gorgeous and I will definitely have to try this foundation! Keep a positive attitude and don't let those negative comments bring you down!

    xo,
    Brooke | www.kbstyled.com

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  23. A lot of my readers are not bloggers. What I've learned from that is that people consider a blog post a conversation. As a blogger, I consider it a conversation! In a conversation, it's natural for people to have differing opinions and share them. Which is really what we're doing with blog posts, right? Sharing our opinions? I don't mind when people tell me what they'd do differently than me or that they wouldn't do something I'd do. It's not personal.

    As for what we spend on, we all spend differently! So spend on what you will and if you're inclined to share your beauty expertise with the world, the world will benefit!

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  24. I think your blog is great which is why I read it religiously. Even though its easy to say...I wouldn't take it so personal. You can NEVER please everyone. Just do what you love, give your personal beauty advice, and ignore the haters. <3

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  25. Love this series and you look stunning in that close-up. I will send you some questions via E-Mail for a future post. Loved the question about the snarky comments. They should never happen on any blog, no matter whether it is a style, beauty, lifestyle, food or fitness blog. People suck. The ones that spin out all that negativity are the ones that truly have the problem, not the other way around. Well you know it has happened to me several times before. I had to learn to let it go. I am better off without them.

    Happy Hump Day Gorgeous! Thanks for doing these candid answers. <3 Ada.

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  26. I love how transparent you are in this post!! I'm so sorry to hear about all of the negative comments. It really is hard to please everyone. But keep your head held high, dear! You're doing an amazing job!! <3

    xoxo,
    Amanda | www.thechambraybunny.com

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  27. This is so true. People do not really realize how much value we take and how much time we take into figuring out what to post and how to present it. I love when people challenge me, but not in a negative way! Thank you for getting this word out!
    xoxo A
    http://themilleraffect.com

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  28. You look so beautiful in this picture. I love reading my fellow bloggers articles because I have picked up so many tips. Of course we all have different coloring and types as well as personal preferences still it is so nice to see honest reviews of a product before trying it out. Love this review and really enjoy your blog!

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  29. Without being negative in commenting, I think it's great when a discussion about what does/not work for people is great to see. It's all about how people choose (or unknowingly approach) a subject sometimes that of course sends one into defense mode. Keep up the great work, tips and recommendations, girl! PS I love bareMinerals foundation and think it's worth every penny :)

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  30. I agree and on top of that, when people leave comments and they clearly didn't read the post, it really hurts my feelings!! I just ignore them most of the time now.
    I'm sorry you have dealt with negative comments, and I am sorry if I have ever been negative without realising it - personally I am cheap and can't afford some of the things you blog about but that doesn't mean I don't appreciate it and read it all, especially because you do blog about a lot of things I can afford!
    That being said - a post of yours a couple months ago, you talked about people commenting on 'life' stuff instead of beauty stuff and I asked you if the way I was commenting bothered you - I know you get millions of comments so I understand if you weren't able to respond, but I now try and be really careful about commenting on your blog because I don't want to offend you!
    Anyway, love your blog girly, keep doing what you're doing :) Haters gonna hate!

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  31. You put so much love, time and effort into each post and it shows. We, your readers appreciate that so much and know we can trust you to be honest for our beauty routines and in life!!! I hope everyone truly appreciates your hard work. Love ya beautiful!!!

    livingoncloudandreanine.blogspot.com

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  32. I really love the Laura Mercier mineral powder foundation. It's so quick and easy to apply, and I get so many compliments when I wear it. I will never understand why someone will visit a beauty blog and then complain about the blogger's beauty products. Ummm...you do realize where you are on the internet, right? lol

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  33. Elle, this is awesome! I feel like I always have beauty questions, especially about which products are good or bad. I guess this isn't really a question, but I would love to see a list of your favorite products of that moment, drugstore and high end. Like, favorite foundation, blush, bronzer, etc. Anyway.

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  34. Don't let anyone get you down, always stay true to yourself x
    I can never find a good foundation, I am so jealous of the people that can! I swear my skin hates me haha :)

    Florals&Smiles
    Twitter

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  35. I guess some people just don't understand the whole, "If you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all" rule. It's hard not to let comments like that bother you, but you can't please everyone. I'm still kinda new to your blog, but I think it's great.

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  36. Your honesty is refreshing. Thanks for sharing your thoughts. You are right - sometimes people comment without fully thinking though how it will be perceived.
    Stay positive.
    Katey
    www.twopeasinablog.com

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  37. Elle, we won't even go there with the negative comments. Do you have a Privacy Policy? If you don't then you should definitely make one up or you can borrow one from my blog. By telling them you're going to delete their negativity, they will stop coming back after you demonstrate that. Blogging is not easy and others should not make it worse. You never allow that negativity in your space girl. You know you're an amazing blogger, fuck what everyone else thinks. Okay I had my rant.. I'm done lol.

    Kay of Pure & Complex
    www.purecomplex.com

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  38. I for one appreciate and enjoy your blog immensely! I get so overwhelmed inside Sephora....or even CVS. There are so many products out there that claim to do this or that and I feel like some are a total scam and others are gems. I dont think that a price tag is actual proof if something is good or not. There is just as much value in an amazing $3.99 gloss as there is the $38 one if it works right for that person! I hope I haven't come off negative to you, because I certainly don't intend to. You put so much work in to your blog, and if I see you have a video in your post...I save the post for later because I want to make sure I have enough time to watch your video too! We all have the right to differing opinions and most of the time if I don't have anything nice to say...I just dont say anything at all. haha! :)

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  39. Great post! Don't let the negative comments get you down - push ahead!
    XO
    Carrie and Stacy
    www.csgemsjewelry.com

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  40. I may be one of those commenters. I don't spend a lot of money on makeup, and I am honest about that. I also don't spend a lot of money on clothes, which I'm also upfront about. I think if I have said anything like that on your blog, it's not an insult, just a comment on how I might like to try a certain brand, but it's too expensive for me. But all of your advice is always appreciated, even if it doesn't pertain to me.

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  41. I really like Sonia Kashuk's foundation. I have pretty sensitive skin but I like a full coverage foundation. I needed to find one that doesn't break me out. This has been the first foundation that I have found that does a good job a both those things!

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  42. Well I personally LOVE your blog and You! I learn a lot from you and take your advice to heart. Don't let the negative Nancy's get u down! U have a lot of us who love and adore u!!! ;)

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  43. its so sad that people can be so negative. what did we learn growing up?? if you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all. i think you are beautiful!! and love your blog. thanks for always posting!

    xoxo, Elena Michelle
    www.anewyorkloveaffair.com

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  44. Well first of all, your makeup is flawless! I want to try that foundation.

    Second, I don't think people realize how negative they are...I feel it's so natural now with all of the gossip news shows and magazines making it OK to bash on everyone and setting it as an example for young kids (my boyfriend has a daughter and oh my, I worry!) It is so dissapointing and you know, "don't read if you don't like it!"

    Before the bloggesphere exploded, I always searched for articles, etc. online that would tell me the honest truth about beauty products before I bought them with no avail. I am so glad that there are beauty bloggers now. So, THANK YOU!!!

    Thirdly - I see a lot of negativity towards the bigger fashion bloggers - especially Rachel Parcel. There is a blog dedicated to solely bashing on her. It is, again, very sad, but hey, she is laughing it all the way to the bank - so hang in there and don't let it frustrate you!!

    I love the fact that your grandmother owned a cosmetics company in the 80's. How cool is that!?

    xoxo
    Brenda

    À LA PLAGE

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  45. I might have to invest in that foundation, you look flawless!
    You're right about the negative comments, they can get to you after a while! You put in so much hard work on your blog though, keep it up!

    Breakfast at Gracey's

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  46. I love the idea of foundation, but sadly my skin is so oily and covering my skin with foundation makes my skin get oilier faster. :( I think my skin just needs to breathe, so I usually just stick to concealer and blush and a dab of powder. Your skin looks SO flawless!
    ~Sara

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  47. I love the red lip on you. I think differences of opinion or spending habits are normal and so long as it's not hostile I wouldn't take it personal. I am a drugstore girl but I don't take offense to those who splurge on high end items too.

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  48. First of all, your skin is totally glowing in that pic and it makes me want to go out and buy that foundation.
    Also, I don't understand why people take the time to comment if they don't have something positive/constructive/friendly to say. I love that you write about a variety of price points and offer so many tips, tricks, reviews, and tutorials. You're my favorite beauty blogger by far!!

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  49. Great post. You know what amazes me? I hardly ever see negative comments on blog posts. However, when it comes to YouTube comments-- that's a whole different ball game. I see so much hatred going on that it sickens me.

    Connie | Sponsored by Coffee | Bloglovin’

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  50. What make me frustrated is when people just look at my pictures and don't read what I have to say.

    http://www.amysfashionblog.com/

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  51. Just delete the haters comments. Lol!!

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  52. You look so lovely, Elle! I adore a dewy finish and would love to try this product. T. http://tickledpinkwoman.blogspot.com

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  53. Girly! You keep doing you! Don't let anyone get you down. I know it can be frustrating but you have to forget all the haters and keep doing what makes you happy. Thanks for the advice!

    Xo
    Victoria

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  54. OMG, that foundation looks fab on you! I have oily to combo skin so I wonder if it would work for me?

    To Hell In A Handbag

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  55. Aw! I really hope I've never left a negative comment on your blog or any others. I think it would be easy to leave a negative comment and not even realize it, especially concerning the price of an item (for me). I would hope most people wouldn't intentionally be negative but it's a cruel world!

    I love all your tutorials and how you offer brands on both ends of the spectrum.

    That foundation looks great on you, too!

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  56. I didn't realize you got so many negative comments. That must be so frustrating! One of the reasons I love your blog is that you research and try out such a wide range of products and give straight up feedback! Keep doing what you are doing!

    Jill
    Doused In Pink

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