My Mum always used to tell me I was her most expensive kid. What can I say, I have good taste. What I like these days and what I have are two very different things though. Most of my makeup drawer is a variety of higher end brands, but I have recently spent time looking for some cheaper alternatives and have happily found some mainstays.

Somehow I ended up down a rabbit hole researching name brand make up dupes (Google it if you dare, I spent the better part of a night reading up on this shockingly popular topic) and for fun decided to give some a try. Almost everything I bought is now part of my regular makeup routine. Here are my findings along with a few that have been on my go to list forever.

The first in the line up is Aquaphor Lip Repair. I don't know what the magical potion in Aquaphor is, but it is good for everything from a baby's diaper rash to dry patches on your skin. I like that it is fragrance free and really delivers on protecting your lips. I would, and have, paid ridiculous amounts for good lip balm, but this is the best I have yet to find. 

Next, Loreal's Colour Riche Le Gloss. In my case it's the clear gloss. I so badly want to be someone who can wear a red lip or any color really, but I always end up looking like a clown. This gloss is great and I can layer it with a little color. It is also good for minimal make up days to feel a little pulled together. 

The next is NYX Finishing Powder.  I never used this brand or a finishing powder before this. I love it. I go over my face with it once all my make up is on and gives a subtle matte look. Definitely a nice to have I never knew I needed. 

I've mentioned this foundation in another post, but it's worth some more praise. Loreal's Lumi Foundation is so so great. I have worn Nars tinted moisturizer for years and recently switched. I love the coverage. A little heavier than a tinted moisturizer, but not as heavy as a traditional foundation. By far my favorite of my new finds. 

I have been using the Revlon eyelash curler since high school. I strayed recently and tried an expensive brand and didn't like it. I can't tell you why it works so well, it just does. Makes my lashes nice and long. 

And lastly, Loreal Carbon Voluminous Black Mascara (are you sensing a theme?) I am a mascara snob and have only used Dior for the past several years. This was recommended as a drugstore dupe for it. Not only is it similar, it works better. It's super black and thick and doesn't clump. I put on three layers on both eye and my lashes look long, long, long.  

That does it for my line up. This post was written while almost being driven crazy by Chase watching old NHL hockey games AND talking over the game to ask Jay questions about it while Max refused to settle down for sleep tonight. So, sometimes you need talk about makeup.