Prettify Your Makeup Collection With These Embossed & Printed Palettes!
by Alex Gambardella
Jun 22, 2010 3:50 PM PDT
While I am one of the most meticulous and detail-oriented beauty collectors around, I have to admit that some makeup is created equal. Sure, I have some staples I swear by, and I definitely believe that many high-end products are worth the splurge, but when deciding between two similar products at the same price point, there's often not too much of a difference. When it comes to making a decision between one golden taupe bronzer and another brand's golden taupe bronzer, it often comes down to tracking down reviews online, using up all the samples at the makeup counter... OR you could just choose the prettiest package! High-end beauty brands are stepping up their game with embossed and printed palettes, hoping to woo makeup mavens by convincing them that you'll look your prettiest if you use the prettiest-looking products... and I'm totally falling for it! Some, like Guerlain's Cherry Blossom Palette and Dior's Lace-Embossed Eyeshadow, are almost too pretty to use! Almost. Take a look at the slideshow for some of the prettiest palettes I've found!
Beauty Bargain: Guerlain Double-Sided Volumizing Mascara For Less!
by Alex Gambardella
Apr 30, 2010 8:50 AM PDT
Ever since I recently became addicted to false lashes, I can't help but want long lush fringe all the time... you know, like during the day and other occasions that are just too casual to bust out the full lash strips and glue. Of course, sometimes just regular mascara doesn't cut it -- when I want noticeable volume and length, I like to go for a double-sided mascara that contains either lengthening primer in addition to mascara, or some kind of additional gloss or formula that amps up the look of my natural lashes. Guerlain's Le 2 de Guerlain Volumizing Mascara is probably the best of the best I've tried, but $36? Come on. As much as I love long lashes, it's hard to justify spending that kind of cash on mascara, no matter what kind of almost-miracles it performs. Luckily for us beauty mavens on a budget, many more affordable brands have caught on to this double-duty mascara idea, so you can still get a similarly great 2-step volumizing system without having to spend quite so much dough! Check out my slideshow for 6 cheaper alternatives to Guerlain's double-ended mascara that are still gorgeous, but less harsh on your wallet!