"Very Hot Take and Soapbox Talk:

This is like asking if non-drag queens “can I use contour”. Just because drag queens invented contouring doesn’t mean only drag queens can use it.

You’ll be surprised how many makeup techniques came from drag queens; yet no one credits them for their techniques or known they are from drag queens. They are literally THE makeup gurus of all makeup gurus.

Nothing is unique to one culture if you truly think about it. Like braids, many cultures have braids in their culture, and they all have meaning.

For example, the Aztec people wore different styles to represent their profession. So, this whole argument that braids belong to Black culture is silly because not all black people are African, and not all Africans are black. Heck Jamaicas and Nigeria are (usually) black, yet have very very different culture . Which adds to my point that Black culture is very diverse and doesn’t belong to one area of the world.
The term ‘cultural appropriation’ needs to die. It’s a form of racism, in my opinion. Why is it so wrong to want to experience other people’s cultures and take part? For God sake, Christmas was a pagan holiday at one point, then became a ‘religious holiday’ to attract more followers. Now it’s just a commercialized holiday that anyone can enjoy. HECK FOOD is widely shared and its not a problem, so why stop at food? Did you know hot dog were invented by American slaves and sushi was peasant food? Some many people now eat it regularly without knowing its originals.
Everything should be shared and enjoyed with others. I do, however, agree that people should take the time to learn the meaning behind things before jumping straight into something new. Like for example, Japanese kimonos have a specific way of being worn. Instead of grabbing one and putting it on willy-nilly, ask or research how to properly put one on and make sure it’s worn the correct way. Last thing you want to do is put it backwards or wear it where it symbolizes a dead person.

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Hoping of my soapbox. That my hot take for today.

Real techniques and Japonesque are my go to brands.

You can find them at TJ Maxx and Marshall on sale.

Highly recommended getting the basic stuff first.

Foundation brush, blush, bronzer, concealer, a few eyeshadow brushes, highlighter, powder, mini powder for under the eyes and touch ups brushes.