If I had to pick one and only one type of foundation to keep in my professional makeup kit (though I would never, ever want do that) and possibly even my own personal makeup collection, the Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk foundation would be it. That should speak volumes about how great of a product I think it is.

For example, this weekend I went away for a bachelorette party in Vegas and because I knew my friends would want me to do their makeup, I brought practically my entire kit with me. I used the Luminous Silk foundation on almost all of them, and it worked beautifully on everyone. The texture is so smooth and silky, while still offering good, build-able coverage. Most importantly, it lives up to its “luminous” name with a very dewy finish. With one thin layer, you will have medium coverage that looks just like fresh, glowy skin. For more coverage, you can stipple additional layers onto the areas that need it, and the best part is that those areas look just as fresh and glowy – there is no flat, mask-like look with this foundation. I love foundations that mimic natural, fresh skin, and this does just that.

The only downside I can think of is that it may cross the threshold of dewy to greasy on those with oily skin. Basically, if you have dry or normal skin, this foundation will be your ride-or-die for lyfe. You can wear it all day with a powder or a setting spray and have great lasting power. For combo/oily skin, this foundation is great for an event or a night out; it probably won’t last eight hours without a touch up, but you’re going to get a few hours of incredible looking skin out of it.

I keep it in my professional arsenal for one reason: as good as it looks in person (and trust me, it looks freaking good), it always looks bangin’ in photos. On every skin type, in every lighting, for every type of event. Formulated without any SPF, this foundation is perfect for flash photography since it won’t give you any flashback (better known as the dreaded ghost face.) This is an incredible foundation for weddings, as brides almost always request glowy, healthy looking skin.

It is expensive ($62 on Nordstrom.com, and I believe it’s now also on Sephora.com), but holy shit you guys, it is SO worth it. I wish they would add even more shades, but until then, I will continue mixing and matching to make sure everyone understands badassery of this foundation. Go get it right meow.