Mya’s Pocket-Sized Pleasures: The Art of Building Your Own “Makeup Village”

As far back as I can remember, my grandmother’s words have resonated with me: “Your bedroom is your temple.” Her simple yet profound insight reminds us that our living spaces reflect who we are as individuals. This philosophy really struck a chord with me, especially when it comes to thinking about how I approach the layout of my beauty routine. I’ve come to think of it as creating my very own “makeup village”. This is a cute little beauty term that I coined, and it refers to having a cozy corner where every product displayed has a story and a purpose.

Makeup villages are an accessory to your space. Imagine it as a small, intimate space found on a dresser, vanity, or behind a bathroom mirror where each makeup item, skincare product, hair accessory, and perfume has its home. Thoughtfully arranged, there displayed is my reliable Fenty foundation, vibrant blushes from Juvia’s Place, silky primer from Milk makeup, and a sweet caramel-pistachio scented body cream from Sol de Janeiro. Of course, you’ll also find my collection of Dior lip glosses and MAC lipsticks, lined up neatly tube by tube.

Entering my makeup village each morning is like stepping into a sanctuary of self-care. It provides me the opportunity to indulge in my most soft, pink, and feminine self. It’s a ritual that sets the tone for the day ahead and I get to feel like I’m having an exclusive pampered experience before I leave my house.

The beauty of “villages” lies in their portability – they don’t have to be confined to a single space and can travel with us wherever we go. We can carry our miniature worlds in our purses, tote bags, and even pockets, ready to be unpacked and enjoyed at any moment. These portable villages are crafted from the small treasures we cherish – pretty books, cute headphones, and drugstore chapsticks – each item contributing to a unique and visually appealing tableau. It’s about how we style things in our proximity and turn them into something charming and visually delightful; creating a little universe of our own wherever we go. Whether we’re placing our village on a table in a café or arranging it on our desk at work, the act of curating these tiny collections brings us joy and pleasure, reminding us to find beauty in the little things.

Crafting your own village is a wonderfully fun and personal experience that allows you to infuse your space with your unique style and personality. Here are a few simple steps to get you started on crafting your very own space

1. Gather Your Essentials: Start by gathering your favorite makeup products and skincare essentials. Think about the items you use on a daily basis and those that bring you the most joy. Maybe they’re just nice to look at. Whether it’s a beloved foundation, lipstick, or skincare serum, each product will play a special role in building your village.
2. Find Your Space: Dedicate an area in your bedroom or bathroom where you can set up. It could be a corner of your dresser, a shelf on your vanity, or even a small table. The key is to find a space that feels comfortable and inviting, where you can easily access your beauty products.
3. Organize Thoughtfully: Arrange your makeup products in a way that is both functional and visually pleasing. Consider using trays, jars, or organizers to keep everything neat and tidy. Group similar items together, such as all your lipsticks or eyeshadow palettes, to create a sense of cohesion.
4. Add Personal Touches: Make it feel like home by adding personal touches and decorative accents. Display your favorite perfumes in pretty bottles and make them the centerpiece. Incorporate candles for a cozy ambiance, or place a small vase of flowers for a pop of color. Place an asymmetrical or heart-shaped vanity mirror next to it to pull it all together. These little details will help to elevate your space and make it feel uniquely yours.
5. Refresh and Revitalize: Finally, don’t forget to refresh and revitalize your makeup village regularly. Declutter any products you no longer use, remove any leftover packaging, wipe down your space, and update your setup as needed. Your makeup village should evolve with you, reflecting your changing tastes and preferences over time.

With these simple steps, you’ll be well on your way to creating a makeup village that is not only functional and practical, but also a reflection of your personal style. Let your makeup village be a comfortable place where you can decompress and indulge in the simple pleasures of your every-day beauty routine.