Product Review: Tom Ford Shade & Illuminate

THIS PRODUCT IS AMAZE-BALLS. I WILL HEART THIS FOREVER AND CRY IF MR FORD EVER DARES TO DISCONTINUE IT! 

As you can see from the very top photograph I sure have used this product lots, but it still has a long way to go before I need to replace it, which makes the price point of £55 feel a little bit better. It is a luxury product so a luxury cost was expected: (It is in the same price bracket as other designer beauty houses such as Dior, Chanel and Burberry). 

I never expected to like this product (let alone become obsessed by it) as I am not a huge fan of cream blushers or bronzers. I was a bit hesitant but after feeling the texture and allowing the girl on the counter to apply some on myself I was won over. It felt really lightweight, not at all greasy and didn’t move my foundation underneath. It comes in two different shades. I chose Intensity One as this is suitable for fairer skins like myself, however as it is a buildable product, if you are fair now but tan in the summer months you can always apply more when your skin is darker, don’t feel like you need to buy both!!!

The packaging is really lightweight, unlike another designer beauty brand (Burberry!!!) and as expected from Tom Ford, is all about being glamourous. The Shade & Illuminate palette comes as a gorgeous little bronze container with a gold clasp, and “Tom Ford” embossed into the opening. Wrapped up in a brown  velvet pouch. Once open you can see it is split into two sections, (the name kinda gives it away folks), the darker colour is designed to contour and sculpt cheek bones and the white, super sheer shade: the highlighter. 

Apply the contour with one side of your foundation brush, from just below the temple down to the apple of the cheek, blending as you apply along the cheekbone. Once you are happy with the level of colour, use the other side of the brush to press around the orbital area (along the brow bone and around the highest point of your cheeks). You can continue to highlight other areas to create a dewy look, maybe down your nose and in the cupids bow. You could also try taking a smaller eyeshadow brush (or just use your ring finger) to apply a little of the highlighter in the inner corner of your eyes, it will brighten your eyes up 🙂

This product has been tried and tested on myself, many of my girlfriends and the models I work with. It is loved by all. I promise you will not be disappointed, do try it for yourself at one of the Tom Ford counters ( Harvey Nichols and Harrods are stockists) and let me know what you think. 

See you soon,