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Lazy Perfection: The Art of Looking Great Without Really Trying
A grown-up's guide to makeup, a primer on the best time-saving techniques, and an inspiring, easy way to update your look--Lazy Perfection is the busy woman's guide to looking her best, with minimal effort and stunning results.
Every woman wants to look like the best version of her self--natural, radiant, and confident. But who has the time to master complicated steps, or the patience to sift through the glut of choices at the beauty counters? Celebrated makeup artist Jenny Patinkin cuts through the confusion and clutter with her "lazy perfection" approach to beauty, replacing complex techniques and hard-to-wear trends with a streamlined, sophisticated approach to makeup.. Here you'll find guidance on finding a beauty routine that works for you--without a lot of involved steps or overpriced products. Guiding you through an initial makeup drawer purge, through setting beauty priorities, to crafting a finished look, Jenny gives you real-life tips for spending your limited time (and budget) to achieve the results you want. With Lazy Perfection you'll know that you're putting your best face forward--minus the fuss!
224 pages, Hardcover
First published May 9, 2017
152 people are currently reading
574 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
March 19, 2018
The title was a smart move- this book isn't really about being lazy, but the words minimal and (even) simple have such heavy connotations these days; they have each become intimidating aspirations.
This book is about knowing what might be the least you can do to look appropriate and attractive. The tone is approachable without being condescending. Patinkin is a makeup artist; I thought her tips were helpful.
Do I look different? No, but I will keep some of her thoughts in mind the next time I'm buying something.
This book is about knowing what might be the least you can do to look appropriate and attractive. The tone is approachable without being condescending. Patinkin is a makeup artist; I thought her tips were helpful.
Do I look different? No, but I will keep some of her thoughts in mind the next time I'm buying something.
September 4, 2018
"This is a book for women who like makeup, but don't necessarily like to wear a lot of it."
I am this woman. I love makeup...it's magic. However, it is very rare that I can be arsed to apply more than sunscreen, mascara, and a lip product with colour and SPF. On a good day, I may slap on some a tinted SPF and a bit of blush.
Chapter One: The Ghost of Beauty Past - This chapter focuses on gathering and purging old, unflattering, unworn, and/or broken cosmetics.
Regarding lipstick, Patinkin maintains that "Everyone has TOO MANY!!" While I own a mere four lipsticks, one is broken, one is a bit too pale and unflattering, and one is a bit too dark and unflattering...
Personally, I think that those who lack makeup confidence would be better served by 1) watching Jenny Patinkin's YouTube videos or 2) reading any of Bobbi Brown's books. Patinkin and Brown share a similar bent for creating a natural look - and building it up for evening drama.
Lazy Perfection offers more focus on cleaning out your makeup kit, as well as other ways of achieving lazy perfection (hair, clothing), but when it comes to makeup application, I want more than a few illustrations. I want colour photographs of the process and the final product on a person.
If makeup is a complete mystery, this book may be helpful, as are Carmindy's and Bobbi Brown's books. If you want guidance on decluttering your makeup bag (and your closet) Lazy Perfection and The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up (which is mentioned in this book) would be good companions.
I am this woman. I love makeup...it's magic. However, it is very rare that I can be arsed to apply more than sunscreen, mascara, and a lip product with colour and SPF. On a good day, I may slap on some a tinted SPF and a bit of blush.
Chapter One: The Ghost of Beauty Past - This chapter focuses on gathering and purging old, unflattering, unworn, and/or broken cosmetics.
Regarding lipstick, Patinkin maintains that "Everyone has TOO MANY!!" While I own a mere four lipsticks, one is broken, one is a bit too pale and unflattering, and one is a bit too dark and unflattering...
Personally, I think that those who lack makeup confidence would be better served by 1) watching Jenny Patinkin's YouTube videos or 2) reading any of Bobbi Brown's books. Patinkin and Brown share a similar bent for creating a natural look - and building it up for evening drama.
Lazy Perfection offers more focus on cleaning out your makeup kit, as well as other ways of achieving lazy perfection (hair, clothing), but when it comes to makeup application, I want more than a few illustrations. I want colour photographs of the process and the final product on a person.
If makeup is a complete mystery, this book may be helpful, as are Carmindy's and Bobbi Brown's books. If you want guidance on decluttering your makeup bag (and your closet) Lazy Perfection and The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up (which is mentioned in this book) would be good companions.
March 14, 2018
I’m not really sure why the author kept saying “lazy”. I think of myself as low maintenance, but not lazy, and I still don’t do half the steps she suggests in the daily makeup routine of this book! I guess she’d say it’s good that I’ve found what works for me, but then I guess that means I didn’t really have a need for her book, did I? If you’re looking to learn how to apply makeup, go to YouTube. If you’re looking to change up your skincare routine, talk to a dermatologist or go to YouTube. If you’re looking to find clothes that flatter you, read books strictly devoted to dressing your body type or check out Pinterest. I guess this book just didn’t go deep enough for my taste, and had the added insult of pretending it’s for women after “lazy perfection.”
May 16, 2018
I'm a visual learner and this book would have been more helpful to me with pictures showing what the author is talking about.
May 14, 2023
I just learned so much??? Like I'm 30ish and dumb and had no idea how you figure out brows or what bronzer did and how to pin down a good skincare routine. So informative and chill. Patinkin has a scale for simple / sophisticated/ sexy for how involved you want to be on putting yourself together but the premise is get educated, then here's an easy routine to work with.
Focus on skincare and makeup, some good bits on hair and wardrobe and how to work with them all together for a cohesive look.
Information on aging and, if you want to, how to hide it. I like seeing someone who knows what she's talking about, and not like some Youtuber who really only knows what works for them.
Invaluable chart in the back for brand recommendations and overall has honest recommendations for what works, not what is expensive.
One star knocked for needing more illustrations, a little less filler in the beginning and not including enough on people that are not white. Haircare in particular needed another voice, although I understand haircare is not her forté. I'm pale as shit so a lot of this advice helps me, not sure how it lands for other's needs.
Focus on skincare and makeup, some good bits on hair and wardrobe and how to work with them all together for a cohesive look.
Information on aging and, if you want to, how to hide it. I like seeing someone who knows what she's talking about, and not like some Youtuber who really only knows what works for them.
Invaluable chart in the back for brand recommendations and overall has honest recommendations for what works, not what is expensive.
One star knocked for needing more illustrations, a little less filler in the beginning and not including enough on people that are not white. Haircare in particular needed another voice, although I understand haircare is not her forté. I'm pale as shit so a lot of this advice helps me, not sure how it lands for other's needs.
August 6, 2017
Excellent, excellent, excellent. This book is geared to all ages but most appealing to those of us that are no longer buying all the trends in makeup. She is practical, whimsical, honest and makes things easy. The only reason I am not giving this 5 stars is some of the print in the book is too small and hard to read. Having said that her table in the back suggesting products in four different price points is a great resource. I just bought a new mascara today that she recommends.
September 14, 2017
There is some helpful information in here, and I like how she levels things based on the amount of effort someone might want to make. My biggest issue is figuring out which colors work well for me, and I still am clueless about that, but I probably just need to spend some time with someone one on one to determine what works best for my particular complexion (I always hope one of these books will give me an 'a ha!' moment with that stuff, but no luck so far).
May 27, 2018
I had high hopes for this book, to get instructions on how to do sophisticated yet simple make-up in 5 minutes. But it's 220+ pages of tiresome plays on words, silly section headings (In a Lip Lock, Lip Sync) and at least a hundred pink boxes labeled "JUST STOP" followed by scoldings such as accepting accidentally smudged eyeliner as your lot in life.
Two things I did accomplish: discard years-old makeup from my vanity drawer; and wearing sun protectant every day and moisturizer every night. But the makeup instruction was far too complicated and I gave up on it without getting what I wanted.
Two things I did accomplish: discard years-old makeup from my vanity drawer; and wearing sun protectant every day and moisturizer every night. But the makeup instruction was far too complicated and I gave up on it without getting what I wanted.
May 11, 2020
When I picked this up from the library ages ago, I thought it was a fashion book. I was disappointed to discover it was 215-ish pages of makeup and 5-ish pages of fashion. I love fashion, but I'm not that into makeup.
There are only a handful of drawings in the book, so you are reading words about makeup 99% of the book -- which isn't the best experience. Makeup and fashion aids need to be visual, in my opinion.
I read it easily in a day. But I'm not sure if I trust the information. Some things just didn't make sense. I did not connect with the author's personality or version of "natural" makeup. Apparently, she is a famous makeup artist, but I had never heard of her. She makes many references to the blogger/youtube world, which I couldn't care less about. I did like her story about starting her makeup career after 40 (and being a stay-at-home mom). Unfortunately, she swears a few times in the book and uses Sofia Vergara, Angelina Jolie and Michelle Obama as her examples of "sexy" women. That and other things felt off and did not connect with me. It actually turned me off.
One takeaway: I'm not a big makeup user, but I have a basic look that I can do. It uses Chanel and NARS makeup and is based off advice from makeup artists, who use to do my makeup for events when I held high-profile positions in various non-profit and civic groups. The author lists both these brands as glamorous and designed to stand out & be noticed. Not natural or subtle. She said that people would always know you were wearing makeup with these brands. She listed other brands that were more natural and might be worn without people knowing you had on makeup. I had never thought about it like that. I'm not sure if I totally buy it. I thought the application of the makeup dictated how natural the makeup looked, not the brand.
But it does make sense that certain brands are heavier than others. I know NARS is used heavily on runways, and it looks amazing in photographs... but the tradeoff is that it might not look natural in person. So, it was great for events where I was heavily photographed, but might not be the best for a simple daily look. Just something to think about.
There are only a handful of drawings in the book, so you are reading words about makeup 99% of the book -- which isn't the best experience. Makeup and fashion aids need to be visual, in my opinion.
I read it easily in a day. But I'm not sure if I trust the information. Some things just didn't make sense. I did not connect with the author's personality or version of "natural" makeup. Apparently, she is a famous makeup artist, but I had never heard of her. She makes many references to the blogger/youtube world, which I couldn't care less about. I did like her story about starting her makeup career after 40 (and being a stay-at-home mom). Unfortunately, she swears a few times in the book and uses Sofia Vergara, Angelina Jolie and Michelle Obama as her examples of "sexy" women. That and other things felt off and did not connect with me. It actually turned me off.
One takeaway: I'm not a big makeup user, but I have a basic look that I can do. It uses Chanel and NARS makeup and is based off advice from makeup artists, who use to do my makeup for events when I held high-profile positions in various non-profit and civic groups. The author lists both these brands as glamorous and designed to stand out & be noticed. Not natural or subtle. She said that people would always know you were wearing makeup with these brands. She listed other brands that were more natural and might be worn without people knowing you had on makeup. I had never thought about it like that. I'm not sure if I totally buy it. I thought the application of the makeup dictated how natural the makeup looked, not the brand.
But it does make sense that certain brands are heavier than others. I know NARS is used heavily on runways, and it looks amazing in photographs... but the tradeoff is that it might not look natural in person. So, it was great for events where I was heavily photographed, but might not be the best for a simple daily look. Just something to think about.
January 3, 2024
This is a great book, but not the one described by the cover, title, even the description. Honestly, it doesn’t even match the first chapter. For a little background, I’m a professional esthetician with a background in special event, bridal, and cinematic makeup. I’m VERY comfortable with cosmetics.
Who this book is for: someone who has zero experience with makeup and wants to learn EVERYTHING and become overwhelmed.
Who it’s not for: someone looking for lazy perfection and how to look great without really trying.
The book starts off describing “that perfect woman”. The woman who always looks flawless, has an organized schedule, the “full time working mom who also makes cookies from scratch”, and then promises to help you get your life together to be lower stress, simplify routines, and help you FEEL put together.
It then spends 80% of the book describing every makeup product you can imagine, (not so sure someone who has very little experience with makeup and wants a streamlined routine needs
A. How to find a saleswoman at a makeup counter
B. Why you should apply 4 shades of eye shadow over primer
C. The best contour/highlight map for their face shape.
About 15% of the book talks about hair products, and 5% tells you to find some sporty shoes, skinny jeans, and a v neck and you’re good to go.
The title: “lazy perfection” with the tagline “the art of looking great without really trying” may have been the original goal of this book…. But it doesn’t deliver on any level. It’s cluttered, overwhelming, and honestly easily dated.
So, yeah I’d give this a pass. It’s rare I’d give a self help book 1⭐️, but considering it’s not the book it said it is at all,… it’s getting my first 1⭐️ of 2024.
Who this book is for: someone who has zero experience with makeup and wants to learn EVERYTHING and become overwhelmed.
Who it’s not for: someone looking for lazy perfection and how to look great without really trying.
The book starts off describing “that perfect woman”. The woman who always looks flawless, has an organized schedule, the “full time working mom who also makes cookies from scratch”, and then promises to help you get your life together to be lower stress, simplify routines, and help you FEEL put together.
It then spends 80% of the book describing every makeup product you can imagine, (not so sure someone who has very little experience with makeup and wants a streamlined routine needs
A. How to find a saleswoman at a makeup counter
B. Why you should apply 4 shades of eye shadow over primer
C. The best contour/highlight map for their face shape.
About 15% of the book talks about hair products, and 5% tells you to find some sporty shoes, skinny jeans, and a v neck and you’re good to go.
The title: “lazy perfection” with the tagline “the art of looking great without really trying” may have been the original goal of this book…. But it doesn’t deliver on any level. It’s cluttered, overwhelming, and honestly easily dated.
So, yeah I’d give this a pass. It’s rare I’d give a self help book 1⭐️, but considering it’s not the book it said it is at all,… it’s getting my first 1⭐️ of 2024.
February 13, 2024
Didn't really need to read this book since I'm already ~ lazy ~ and * perfect * tbh lolz but it was a pleasant, low stakes read in the midst of brain fry and "omg I have three kids when does it end" exhaustion. The best thing to happen as a result of this book is that I did a major purge of my makeup kit and finally came to terms with the fact that my robust collection of glosses, highlighters and eyeliners—which I picked up along the way through various makeup subscriptions during the pandemic—are a CAPITALIST LIE. Never have I ever pulled off a glitter black eyeshadow smokey eye and really where would I wear that even if I could? I got rid of it all.
This book gave a satisfying, minimalist rundown of what you really need to keep in your makeup bag depending on your skin, hair and lifestyle. That being said, I appreciated that this author went out of her way to at least address shades and options for people of color, but I was hyper aware that as a white woman I was still ~ the default audience ~ of most of her applications.
This book gave a satisfying, minimalist rundown of what you really need to keep in your makeup bag depending on your skin, hair and lifestyle. That being said, I appreciated that this author went out of her way to at least address shades and options for people of color, but I was hyper aware that as a white woman I was still ~ the default audience ~ of most of her applications.
January 1, 2022
Definitely expected I would enjoy this more...
I love all things girly but I have two main complaints:
1. There was definitely an instance or two that came off as fat shaming, and especially since it happened somewhat early in the book, it put a sour taste in my mouth for the remainder.
2. I just expected it to be something else. It was 80% about skincare and makeup. I like those, but I already had a makeup routine I liked (although, Patinkin did have some good tips). I expected it to be more about fashion and accessorizing tips and ideas.
HOWEVER, I did learn a ton about skincare that I didn't know, and she did have a fashion section in the very last section. I can definitely see myself referencing those sections in the future.
I love all things girly but I have two main complaints:
1. There was definitely an instance or two that came off as fat shaming, and especially since it happened somewhat early in the book, it put a sour taste in my mouth for the remainder.
2. I just expected it to be something else. It was 80% about skincare and makeup. I like those, but I already had a makeup routine I liked (although, Patinkin did have some good tips). I expected it to be more about fashion and accessorizing tips and ideas.
HOWEVER, I did learn a ton about skincare that I didn't know, and she did have a fashion section in the very last section. I can definitely see myself referencing those sections in the future.
July 7, 2018
3.5*** A lazy easy read about finding and using beauty products to define your personal level of perfection with minimal effort. Useful info without being preachy or relying heavily on celeberties. A great book for the real everyday woman who’s generally comfortable with herself but needs a little guidance.
July 11, 2019
a conversational and somewhat amusing bit of fluff about makeup, skin care and hair. Not intimidating for someone who wants to know the basics. I found out a few things I didn't know. Bottom line: if you're going to wear makeup, apply it deftly and keep your stock streamlined and fresh. Just like your wardrobe. And your hair.
June 9, 2022
Meh. Nothing new. A fun/light read in some parts, and boring in others. Too many jokes/pop culture references.
I agree with her minimalist outlook and streamlining your look, life, and routine.
I wish there were photographs throughout as examples and that she had incorporated the list of recommended brands in each section instead of adding it at the end of the book.
I agree with her minimalist outlook and streamlining your look, life, and routine.
I wish there were photographs throughout as examples and that she had incorporated the list of recommended brands in each section instead of adding it at the end of the book.
April 2, 2018
Picked out some make up tips here. It's good for anyone - from someone who is just starting out their own makeup routine to a seasoned pro. The tips and tricks she shares are also applicable to people of all ages.
April 5, 2018
This was probably more like 2.5 stars for me. If you're really new to make-up and skin care, this would be a decent read. If you've been wearing make-up since 7th grade and enjoy reading product reviews & watching tutorials online (guilty), this might cover too much you already know.
November 30, 2020
Ten out of twelve chapters are about makeup. The last two chapters are about hair and clothes. Not what I expected, but a nice starter book for people who aren't familiar with face care or makeup application.
April 26, 2021
This is a great book for anyone who doesn't wear makeup because they find it intimidating or who is stuck in the same makeup routine they've used since high school and doesn't know how to update their look.
July 8, 2021
A humorous, authentic guide that offers advice without being condescending or overly complicated. There were several recaps, lists, tables and figures which really helped me understand how to put the advice into practice without feeling overwhelmed.
March 10, 2022
This book was a breath of fresh air from my Pinterest or Instagram ! Nothing that I haven't already pinned, but it was nice to have it all so organized, friendly, encouraging, and (best of all) screen free!
July 30, 2017
I loved it! My mission statement on makeup in a book!
September 17, 2017
Quick, fun read. Reminded me of make up tips I knew at one time, picked up a couple new ones. I enjoy reading a book about makeup every couple of years and this fit the bill!
February 24, 2018
Nice book. I like the focus on streamlined beauty and thrift. I'm a product of the 1980's beauty, so re-creating myself in my 40's - 50's has been an adventure. No more "big hair" for me.
April 23, 2018
I know nothing about makeup. This was super helpful and informative.
August 8, 2018
A lot of really great information in this, especially some great makeup ideas and products!
June 21, 2019
Lots of great tips but for those who aren't used to doing makeup, it's not very lazy.
January 23, 2023
This book sadly does not suit everyone….it ok for basics but the word ˋlazy´ is highly misused.
October 22, 2023
It had lots of great advice. Will have to reread next year!
June 30, 2024
3.5 rounded up. Would be nice if it included more illustrations of make-up application.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews