For the past several weeks you could say I've been slightly obsessed with makeup palettes. I've tested nearly 15 palettes, toted them back and forth to work each day, carried them out on the town, tucked them inside my computer bag, and even let them fall to the very bottom of my very large handbag. Why? Because several of you (you know who you are) challenged me to offer up easy makeup options that would work for busy women and busy moms alike.
As I listened to your beauty challenges, my thoughts went straight to the amazing holiday palettes that are out right now. After weeks of personal research, I think I've found some options that alleviate all of your concerns. You asked for wearable colors and ease - easy application, easy to carry if needed, and even easy to hide from your kids. Without further ado, here are my top palette picks for all of you busy on-the-go beauties.
Best Overall - While the Laura Mercier Luxe Portfolio is an investment, I would almost guarantee it's the one palette you'll either want to carry with you at all times or keep stashed at your desk. And when this limited edition runs out, we'll both be begging for them to bring it back ASAP!
This palette is close to perfection in my book. It's lightweight, small enough to carry with you, has a magnetic closure so you won't have to worry about leaving a mess is your car or bag, and it's absolutely gorgeous inside and out! It includes six totally wearable eye shadows, three cake eyeliners, two blush colors, and three full-size professional brushes to make your application even easier. Short of a mirror and lip gloss, this palette offers the most complete and compact makeup collection with colors that will complement every complexion.
Best Petite Palette - For being small enough to fit in the palm of your hand, the Bobbi Brown Ultimate Party Palette offers plenty of beautiful options. Who knew you could pack eight mini eye shadows and four lip glosses inside such a sleek little package. If you're looking for something to keep in the pocket of your purse or tucked inside a small handbag, this is the perfect pick!
I'm personally crazy about the whole Night color palette, but my favorite feature is actually on the back of the packaging! If you flip the palette over, you'll find two QR Codes. Scan each code with your smartphone to watch Rachel's how-to videos. They'll walk you through the five-step process for creating the perfect smoky eye look for day and color-blocked look for night. See, it's trendy and tech chic in the best possible way!
Best Night Out Palette - While I guess this is technically more of a collection, I still think it's a great pick for anyone who needs easy, beautiful makeup options. Tuck the Bare Escentuals And Away We Glow in your makeup drawer or hidden on a shelf in your closet and you'll always have the perfect go-to products for a night on the town. And this set is truly all inclusive with shimmering eye colors, eyeliner, mascara, cheek color, highlighter (my favorite!), lip color, brushes, and how-to application instructions all inside a festive red box.
No more excuses ladies. I'm speaking from experience when I say that we should all be able to work these palettes into our time-starved schedules. Pick your favorite, try it out, and let me know what you think. Thanks for the challenge!
I think the Bobbi Palette is totally suitable for day. All of the eye colors are actually very soft and pretty with a great shimmer. I think I was wearing a few of the shades included the last time I saw you.
