If you LOVE Sleepy Girl…

Okay, so if you're anything like me, you've probably fallen head over heels for the viral "sleepy girl" aesthetic, and that often starts with the perfect blush. For a long time, my go-to has been the Rhode Sleepy Girl pocket blush. There’s something so effortlessly chic about that cool, muted mauve shade that just brightens up the face and gives you that perfect, subtle flush – like you've just woken up from the most blissful nap. It’s truly a staple in my makeup bag for achieving that understated, dreamy look. But let's be real, sometimes we want to explore alternatives or just have a different texture to play with. That's exactly why I started looking for something that could give me similar vibes, especially with that gorgeous cool undertone. And let me tell you, I hit the jackpot with Rare Beauty's Liquid Blush in "Encourage." It’s become my absolute favorite companion to my Sleepy Girl obsession. When you compare the two, the first thing you notice is the texture. The Rhode Sleepy Girl blush is a beautiful cream formula. I find it super easy to dab onto my cheeks with my fingertips and then blend out for a really natural, skin-like finish. It melts seamlessly into the skin, making it almost undetectable, which is key for that "no-makeup makeup" look. On the other hand, Rare Beauty Encourage is a liquid, and it is *potent*. A tiny dot, and I mean a tiny dot, is all you need for vibrant color. I usually apply one small dot on each cheek and then blend it out quickly with a damp beauty sponge or a fluffy blush brush. What I love is how easily both of them blend, despite their different consistencies. You won't be left with harsh lines or patchy color, which is a huge bonus, especially when you're in a rush. The cool, mauve hue is where these two really shine together. Both offer that beautiful, slightly desaturated pinkish-purple tone that complements so many skin tones, especially those with cooler undertones like mine. While Rhode’s Sleepy Girl gives a softer, more diffused wash of color, Rare Beauty Encourage – as you might expect from a liquid blush – delivers a more intense pigment. However, it’s completely buildable and blends out beautifully, so you can achieve anything from a sheer tint to a more pronounced flush. For me, the finish is also slightly different; Rhode tends to be a bit more satin-matte, while Rare Beauty can lean a little more dewy, depending on how much you apply and what base you have underneath. If you’re looking to truly nail the "sleepy girl" aesthetic, here are a few tips I've picked up. Regardless of whether you're using your rhode sleepy girl cream blush or the rare beauty encourage liquid, placement is key. I like to apply it slightly higher on the cheekbones, almost wrapping it around towards my temples, rather than just on the apples of my cheeks. This creates a lifted, almost ethereal effect. Blending it out subtly into your bronzer or contour (if you use one) helps create a cohesive look. For days when I want a super long-lasting look, I might even layer a touch of the Rare Beauty liquid first, blend it out, and then lightly tap the Rhode cream blush over the top for added dimension and staying power. Both are fantastic on their own, but together, they create a truly dreamy, cool-toned flush that lasts all day. So, if you're a fan of that beautiful rhode sleepy girl shade, definitely give Rare Beauty Encourage a try; you might just find your new favorite. It’s all about finding those products that make you feel naturally radiant and effortless.