The Importance of Being Bronzed

L to R: Bobbi Brown Shimmer Brick, Wet n Wild ColorIcon, Benefit Hoola, Milani Bronzer, Too Faced Aqua Bunny

Up until about a year ago, I owned zero bronzers. I mean, as a medium/tan complexioned individual, I really didn't see the point - I'm already naturally tan! But I was completely wrong. Bronzer adds so much warmth and dimension to your face no matter what your skin color is. I've realized that the point of bronzer isn't really to look tan, but just healthy and glowing. Matte bronzer also makes a great contour, giving the impression of a more sculpted and slimmer cheeks, nose and chin. I still consider myself a bronzer newb, but here is my collection.

Bobbi Brown Shimmer Brick in Beach - This was my very first bronzer purchase and since it's quite shimmery and pinky, it probably makes a better highlight or blush than a true bronzer. The swatch above is just all of the stripes blended together, but you could definitely use a small brush or your fingers to pick up each individual shade. 

Wet n Wild ColorIcon Bronzer in Shell-A-Brate Good Times - This was an impulse purchase, but I had heard great things about Wet n Wild bronzers. The powder is very soft and kicks up quite a bit. There is some shimmer and you can use the lighter part on it's own as a highlight. 

Benefit Hoola - Whenever I see this color it just reminds me of milk chocolate! Hoola is a cool toned matte brown that works best on light/medium skin tones. The effect is pretty subtle on me and I could see that it might look too muddy on others. Because Hoola is matte, I like this one as a contour.

Milani Bronzer in #01 Light - Another fairly matte bronzer (perhaps more satin?). This one is quite a bit darker than Hoola and also leans a tiny bit more orange. Great as a contour and for all over bronzing.

Too Faced Aqua Bunny Cream to Powder Bronzer - This is probably the most orange of the bunch, but it doesn't really translate that way to my skin. I've been using my Real Techniques Buffing Brush to apply this and love the effect. I find the enclosed brush too thin and flimsy and I'm not sure how you're supposed to use it. This is also waterproof if that appeals to you.

What bronzers do you recommend? I know everyone raves about Nars Laguna and that is definitely on my list.