Holiday MakeUp Sets

A few days ago, I mentioned it was wise to consider preparing your closet for the month of December now. I also think this time of year is the perfect time to update your make up if you don't do so regularly.

I'll be honest, I'm in a long term relationship with most of my makeup colors. I'm not someone who has ever mastered Smokey eyes (and that is including liquid eye liner - I didn't flourish in drawing lessons). My technique is pretty predictable because (fortunately) so is my life lately. Work, dinners, happy hours, errands, time in front of the TV - I can prescribe to the less is more philosophy. However, December usually calls for a few extra formal events where evening makeup is more appropriate.

December is a great month to be creative because so many companies offer sets in really affordable prices. You get to try just a little bit of their best products without really investing in their makeup lines. Most of these sets also minimize the thinking involved in finding the right coloring as they attempt to work for everyone.  They also come with a pretty nice carrying case. (So why would you not buy new makeup now? ;)

Maybe we are supposed to be looking at these gift sets and think, "Who can I give this to?" but I'm not ready to cross people off my Christmas list. I think this is one of those situations like flying. . You have to get your own oxygen mask on before you can help anyone else. I need to get myself ready for Holiday season and then I can wear out my Mastercard buying other people gifts.

Bare Minerals Holiday Set - $56I was at the mall recently and fell for the BareMinerals new set. (I'm not a religious wearer of BareMinerals, but if you do have sensitive skin, it is the most gentle out of the makeup I've tried) The best part about this set is the carrying case. It is actually a really nice clutch. (Not nice like you might mistake it for Chanel ;) but definitely nice enough I will be using it outside of my house)

The other fantastic thing about this set is it has everything (except for mascara & foundation) that you could possibly need. There are light colors for day and darker for night. It is definitely something I can throw in my overnight bag and feel confident I have everything I need in one palette.

Philosphy 3-1 Gels - 16oz bottles ($34.99)Philosophy is my version of Bath and Body. Their holiday scents are just right. Not to sweet, subtle, and delicious. Plus, almost all of their washes are wash, shampoo, and bumble bath in one which makes it perfect when your traveling and can't squeeze one more thing in your suitcase.

Even if you don't think you want to smell llike gingerbread for the month of December, I love their perfumes. They smell fresh and clean (just like their titles ;)

Josie Maran Gift Collection - $The other brand I am a fan of that has a new Holiday gift set is Josie Maran. Josie Maran has some really nourishing, none irritating products. I LOVE (xoxox) her lip stains. Her body oil is the best on the market hands (in my opinion).

If your thinking that maybe some of these collections are out of your price range. . .Sephora is offering 20% for VIBs (Very Important Beauty Insiders) from November 8th - November 12th. It is free to enroll in the VIB program. (Code is CELEBRATE)