splendor & folly

Even though sometimes it is true you get what you pay for, I’m trying to learn the lesson that more expensive does not necessarily mean better.

I think there are times and reasons to splurge and times when spending money is just a waste!

Case in point – I bought this Physician’s Formula Bronzer (you can get it any drugstore, but it still seems fancy to me) for around $14 and I was using it everyday.

Until one day, it hit me…this stuff BARELY shows up on my skin!

I don’t want to talk bad about this brand because I do like some of their other products, but for some reason with this particular bronzer, the product just did not transfer to my skin. So I went back to the drugstore and picked up a Wet N Wild bronzer for $2.99 and what do you know? I like it MUCH better.

Do you have a favorite cheapy product that works better than anything else?

So, if I had no budget, here is what I would purchase (based on reviews, recommendations and other things I come across online):

1. Laura Mercier Secret Camoflauge Concealer - $28
2. Dior DiorShow Mascara - $24
3. MAC Eyeshadow x4 – $36 I’d actually just like an assortment of MAC colors…
4. Urban Decay Primer Potion - $17
5. Benefit High Beam highlighter - $24
6. NARS Blush - $25
7. Laura Mercier Foundation - $42
8. Larénim Pressed Mineral Powder - $26
9. Shu Uemura Eyebrow Pencil - $22

And there you have it!

This is my basic makeup routine I do each morning before work. For going out, I just do a darker eye. All of my makeup comes from Target or Walgreens.  For the most part I am happy with my collection, but my main complaint is that by the end of the work day, it all wears off.  Perhaps if I invest in some quality makeup, I will see better results. I’ll be posting my makeup wishlist tomorrow!

1. NP Set Memory Foundation - $28
2. Sonia Kashuk Creme Blush – $9? not currently for sale online
3. Almay TLC Truly Lasting Color Pressed Power - $13
4. Physician’s Formula Healthy Glow Bronzer - $14
5. ecoTOOLS Bamboo 5 piece brush set - $10 – LOVE THESE!
6. Revlon ColorStay Eyeshadow Quad in Sandstorm - $7
7. Boots No7 Liquid Eyeliner in Black - $9
8. Sonia Kashuk Black Eyeshadow (used as eyeliner) – $7
9. Physician’s Formula Mineral Wear Mascara - $8