I had an epiphany the other day. I decided that since I am almost 30 years old...well 26 to be exact {yikes!}, and technically a grown up with a "big girl job" (even though I don't feel like one)...I have reached the point in my life where I am going to focus more on high end makeup and beauty products.
Don't get me wrong, I will still use drugstore products and I do have my trusty favorites that will never change, but I'm no longer going to be scared of paying over $10 for foundation or always thinking I need to find a cheaper drugstore alternative of something. If I want a $30 foundation, I'll buy it :)
This decision occurred while I was at Ulta the other week...I know, of course something this life-changing would occur at such a fabulous place ;) I went in for foundation and ended up picking out quite a few things...
I saw this sitting out and thought everything looked so perfect for a bronzed summer look, plus it was under $40 for almost $100 in product! See below for a detailed look into the little beach bag :)
Waterproof Mascara (perfect for summer)
Magenta Vibe Lip Balm
5-in-1 Cream Shadow in Soft Linen (perfect eyeshadow base)
Riviera Sun Baked Bronze Pigment Eyeshadow
Faux Tan all over face color (aka bronzer)
Magenta Vibe Lip Balm
Bronzer and Eyeshadow Swatches (day light, no flash)
(Foundation $29 and Brush $28)
Ok, I bought this after it was recommended by one of my best friends, Andrea. She has been a makeup artist for years and is very picky, so I always believe her when she finds something she likes. I'll be honest though, I was skeptical at first since I "had to" buy the almost $30 brush and the formula seemed really light (and I like full coverage)...
...but I have to say I am VERY happy with this foundation! It feels light and I do use a few more drops than recommended (because I like fuller coverage), but it is definitely build-able without feeling like you are packing the make up on!
I was talking to Shelby about it (since she recently purchased it too) and she mentioned that the powder you use to set it really makes the difference, which I totally agree with! This foundation does give a dewy / glowy look to your skin - which is beautiful, but it definitely needs finished off with a nice, light powder set.
All in all, I'm very happy with this purchase and I honestly think I will be repurchasing once it runs out. Side note: the brush is vital - I wasn't on this bandwagon at first but now that I've used it, I can see why. It's very dense and the light consistency of the foundation needs this dense of a brush to apply properly and not seep down and get lost in the brush.
While browsing around Ulta, I also picked up a few more little things...
You can never have to many pairs of fake eyelashes stocked up ;)
Free Samples: Benefit Watt's Up Highlighter and Bare Minerals Domination Mascara
Gel Eyeliner Brush (Real Techniques)
NYX Dark Brown Gel Eyeliner
Rimmel Eyebrow Pencil
NXY White Eyeliner Pencil (ps - HATE this)
Magic Lumi Concealer
Prestige Black Eyeliner Pencil
L'oreal Voluminous Butterfly Mascara (AMAZING)
If I have to rave about one item, it would be the Butterfly mascara. Hands down BEST drugstore mascara I've ever had! I tried it on a whim...I think they were out of my typical Carbon Black and this had a sales sticker on it...but I'm so happy I grabbed it! It makes my lashes look jet black, and longer than they ever have. I never thought I would like the new rubbery-type mascara wands, but the shape of this does wonders for my lashes! I've already got all my girlfriends to buy it and they love it too!
What are some of your favorite makeup items / brands??
I'm always looking for new things to try! xx
