Being a fan of makeup nowadays can end up being a rather expensive habit. We love Sephora, and there certainly are a few products from there that are simply irreplaceable. But there are also a few products that can be swapped for the much cheaper drugstore version, without compromising quality.
Here are drugstore makeup products that are just as great as your high-end favourites, but won’t break your bank.
NYX Epic Wear Eyeliner Pencil, $11.50
The options of makeup looks from these coloured NYX eyeliners are literally endless. Which ever mood you’re feeling, there’s a colour for that too. The product is smudge-proof and long lasting. All for under $12, what more could you ask for?
Maybelline Fit Me Foundation, $10.99
This foundation is easily the most diverse out of all the drugstore foundations you can find. It’s oil-free, smooth in texture, lightweight, controls shine, blurs pores, and comes in 16 different shades. It also has the ability to be layered for full coverage or used sparingly for lighter coverage.
L’Oreal Paris InfaIllible Foundation, $19.99
Although a tad pricier than most drugstore foundations, this one is easily worth the cost, and still saves you on spending $50 or more on high-end foundation. The great thing about this product, is its stay-power. It’s everything you love about a lightweight foundation, but with an added advantage: 24-hour coverage. Additionally, it provides a hydrated, dewy, radiant finish, to keep you looking fresh all day. Click here to read more about the best drug-store foundations on the market.
NYX Colour Corrector, $13.50
Many colour correctors are on the expensive side for such a small tube of product. This NYX formula is just as long-lasting as higher end with the drugstore makeup price. There are 24 shades to choose, find your perfect match and fall in love with this concealer.
Rimmel Matte Natural Bronzer, $7.98
This bronzer competes with the best of the best, in my books. For $7.98, you have a bronzer that will last you months. This product has a strong pigment, so a little goes a long way. On top of that, it is extremely versatile. If used with the correct brushes, and paired with just about any highlighter, this bronzer can be used for contouring as well.
L’Oreal Paris Voluminous Original Mascara, $9.99
When it comes to mascara, it can actually be more difficult to find one that doesn’t get the job done. But nonetheless, it’s easy to convince ourselves that spending $30 on high-end mascara makes a big difference, even when it may not. This mascara could easily compete with most mascaras, high-end and low-end. It’s clump-resistent, fragrance free, flake-free, and comes in both waterproof, and regular.
L’Oreal Paris Studio Secrets Professional Magic Perfecting Base, $12.99
Many don’t even bother using primer, because it’s just another thing to spend money on. But this primer will definitely change your mind about that, without breaking your budget. For $12.99, you can smooth the look of your skin under makeup, prevent makeup from settling into fine lines and wrinkles, and minimize the look of pores.
NYX Vinyl Liquid Liner, $10.99
This liner is an absolute must-try. It features a sleek, fine brush for precision, to help get your wings right on the first try, and a glossy, jet-black finish.
NYX Hydra-Touch Powder Foundation, $16.00
NYX is by far the most superior and affordable drugstore makeup brand. Nearly every single one of their products is solid enough to go toe-to-toe with your high-end faves. But nothing compares to their Hydra-Touch Powder Foundation. This hidden gem is a weightless pressed powder that offers buildable coverage, for any occasion. It can be added on top of foundation to set your makeup, and provide extra coverage with a smooth finish, or it can be used alone for gentler coverage.
NYX Micro Brow Pencil, $12
This NYX brow pencil will make you never want to spend $27 on an Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz ever again. This ultra-fine-tip mechanical brow pencil fills brows in, creating the illusion of actual eyebrow hairs, for a natural finish.
Elf Cosmetics Baked Highlighter, $4
Choosing a highlighter can be tough since they all look so similar, so we tend to gravitate to the more expensive ones from brands we can trust. But this one is bound to change your mind. For just $4, you can choose from four different shimmery shades, and achieve a glow that could even compete with Fenty. Plus, it’s infused with Vitamin E and hydrating jojoba, rose hip, sunflower, apricot, and grape oils to nourish your skin.
Featured image: Instagram/ @nyxcosmetics
Across the globe, stores and restaurants are closing and people are living in isolation. Life feels less like reality and more like a simulation a little bit every day.
But while times are gloom and the future is uncertain, it’s great to see the world banding together. Bright moments are happening across the globe. In Toronto, we’ve seen local institutions pivot their businesses to provide people with hand sanitizer and grocery stores putting those most at-risk first. And across the beauty, fashion, and retail industries, we’re seeing conglomerates step up their efforts to help stop the spread of Coronavirus, too.
Here is how 10 major brands and retailers are doing their part during the COVID-19 outbreak:
LVMH
Luxury conglomerate LVMH was the first on the fashion and beauty front to offer up its support in helping to prevent the spread of Coronavirus. On March 15, the company announced that it would turn its perfumes and cosmetics business into a hand sanitizer manufacturer. LVMH has committed to deliver the hand sanitizer it creates free of charge to French health authorities for “as long as necessary” to help “enable a greater number of people to continue to take the right action to protect themselves from the spread of the virus.”
L’Oréal
Under the L’Oréal beauty brand, La Roche-Posay said it would provide hand sanitizer to institutions in Europe that need it the most such as main partnering pharmacies, hospitals, and nursing homes. Garnier, also under the L’Oréal beauty brand, will distribute hand sanitizer to its European clients’ food distribution channels. In a statement to WWD, L’Oréal Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Jean-Paul Agon said, “Through these gestures, L’Oréal wishes to express its appreciation, support and solidarity with all those who mobilize with extraordinary courage and abnegation to fight against this pandemic.”
Los Angeles Apparel
Another of the retailers donating to COVID-19 prevention efforts is Los Angeles Apparel. In a statement made through Instagram, the company’s controversial owner Dov Charney (formerly of American Apparel) offered help to the municipal, state, and federal agencies. “Our experienced workforce and management team of over 450 people are ready and able to produce masks or medical products for any government agency,” Charney said.
Zara
Fast fashion behemoth Inditex — the owner of Zara, Massimo Dutti, and more — is also lending its workforce in the battle to prevent COVID-19’s spread. As one of the retailers donating to COVID-19 prevention efforts, the company’s factories and logistics teams will help the Spanish government by donating masks for patients and medical workers, stating to Vogue, that it “will make a delivery at least once a week of materials we purchase directly.” As of now, the company has donated 10,000 protective face masks and expects to have 300,000 surgical masks ready by March 21.
Moncler
In a statement on Instagram, Moncler’s Chairman and CEO Remo Ruffini announced that the company would donate €10 million towards the construction of a hospital in Milan with 400 extensive care units. He said, “Milan is a city that has given us all an extraordinary time. We cannot and must not abandon it. It is everyone’s duty to give back to the city that has given us so much.”
Giorgio Armani
Earlier in the month, Giorgio Armani donated €1.25 million to a number of Italian hospitals and institutions. According to WWD, “The Luigi Sacco and San Raffaele hospitals and the Istituto dei Tumori in Milan as well as the Istituto Lazzaro Spallanzani in Rome will benefit from the donation. The amount will additionally support the activities of Protezione Civile, the country’s civil defense.”
Kering
As reported by South China Morning Post, Kering — the luxury conglomerate that owns Gucci, Balenciaga, Alexander McQueen, and more — has donated 7.5 million yuan to the Red Cross Society Of China.
Versace
Versace’s Chief Creative Office Donatella Versace and her daughter Allegra Versace Beck have donated €200,000 to the San Raffaele hospital in Milan. In a statement, Versace said, “Our hearts go out to all those who have been affected by this disease and to all the doctors and medical staff who have been working heroically non-stop in the past weeks in the effort to take care of our loved ones.” The company has also donated 1 million yuan to The Chinese Red Cross Foundation.
Prada
According to Business Insider, Prada co-CEOs Muiccia Prada and Patrizio Bertelli, as well as Chairman Carlo Mazzi, have donated two resuscitation and complete intensive care units to hospitals in Milan.
Walmart
One of the big retailers donating to COVID-19 prevention efforts is Walmart. On March 17, Walmart and the Walmart Foundation announced a pledge of $25 million to help organizations on the front lines in fighting COVID-19. The large sum will be split between food banks and meal programs in America, as well as global efforts in preventing, identifying, and managing the outbreak.
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Costco is a magical one-stop shop filled with free samples, bulk foods, and affordable clothing for the whole family. But one section that often goes overlooked is the big box retailer’s beauty department.
If you’re a beauty maven or skincare addict that’s lucky enough to have — or know someone that has — a Costco membership, I highly suggest you check it out the beauty department the next time you’re in-store! It has more to offer than jumbo sized Spectro cleansers and infinite deodorant sticks.
Each Costco is a little different, but what you’re guaranteed to find stocked on shelves are reputable beauty brands at prices that can’t be beat. I stopped by my local Costco store to see what treasures I could find and I wasn’t disappointed.
Here are 10 of the best beauty products Costco carries.
Batiste Instant Hair Refresh
Batiste is one of the most popular dry shampoos on the market, so when I found this set of dry shampoos, I was ecstatic! For just $12.99, you can score two full-size dry shampoos plus a mini to pack in your purse or travel bag.
Elizabeth Arden Millenium
As a staple in both your mom and your grandmother’s beauty bags, Elizabeth Arden is a no brainer when it comes to skincare. Individual moisturizers from the label can run you upwards of $92, but this three-piece set, which includes day cream, eye cream, and night cream, will only cost you $44.99 at Costco.
Elizabeth Arden Visible Difference
At the same price of $44.99, Costco also carries an Elizabeth Arden Visible Difference set that comes with two jars of Visible Difference and travel capsules. Online, the same set of the award-winning moisturizer will cost you $132 (without the travel capsules), so you’re getting much better value at Costco.
eos lip balms
Calling all lip balm addicts! If you’re like me and need a lip balm in every bag, purse, and pocket, head to Costco and pick up one of the two sets I found! For $14.99, you can get six of the classic round eos lip balms (regularly $4.24 each) in a variety of flavours. Or for $16.59, you can get eight stick lip balms (regularly $5.79 for two).
L’Oréal Voluminous Lash Paradise
Beauty gurus rave about the lash magic L’Oréal’s Lash Paradise creates. Often considered a dupe for Too Faced’s Better Than Sex mascara, it makes sense why Costco would sell it in bulk. For just $23.99, you can get three tubes of the good stuff, which normally sells for $13.99 a tube on Well.ca.
L’Oréal’ Revitalift
Another night cream spotted on the shelves of Costco is the L’Oréal Revitalift Anti-Wrinkle + Firming. For $29.99, you can add a double-sized jar to your beauty routine. A regular sized jar is $24.97 at Walmart, so it’s just $5 extra for an extra 50 mL at Costco.
Olay Complete
If you’re looking for a daily moisturizer that won’t break the bank, look no further than Olay Complete. This pack of two can be found at Costco for just $12.97. The moisturizer features Vitamin E and SPF 15, meaning that it’ll leave your face feeling soft and protect it from the sun.
Case Full Of Seoul
One of the best beauty products Costco carries is actually a case full of eight! Newly launched at Costco stores across Canada is Case Full Of Seoul, a starter pack of Korean beauty products from a variety of brands. Featuring popular labels like May Coop, 9wishes, and Urang, the kit has everything you need for your face including eye cream, cleanser, primer, serum, and more. The entire kit will cost you $149.99, but each individual product typically retails for $20 to $25, so it’s great value.
Marc Anthony 100% Extra Virgin Coconut Oil & Shea Butter Hydrating Shampoo and Conditioner
In addition to an amazing roster of skincare, you can also find shower essentials at Costco. The best duo the Costco I visited had on offer was a Marc Anthony combo of 100% Extra Virgin Coconut Oil & Shea Butter Shampoo and Conditioner set, which cost just $16.99.
Kirkland Daily Facial Towelettes
I’m a big fan of the Kirkland brand and have never been disappointed by its quality! Perfect for taking off your makeup or a refresh after the gym, a box of 150 wipes will cost you just $15.99. The box comes with four packs of 30 and two packs of 15, so you can keep them at home, work, and in your everyday bag.
And while we’re on the topic of the Kirkland Signature, I should note that Kirkland actually has its own line of cosmetics called KS by Borghese.
While I haven’t tried any of the collection yet, it did look pretty interesting. From intensive eye serum and replenishing night cream, to lipstick crayons and volumizing mascara, the KS by Borghese brand is extensive and in-expensive — prices in the collection range between $21.99 and $26.99.
When it comes to beauty, sometimes it’s difficult to know what to splurge on and what to save on — especially when it comes to products that you use on the regular. And while we love treating ourselves to expensive beauty buys from time to time, high price doesn’t necessarily mean high quality.
Experience has shown that some affordable drugstore products actually work better than their high-end rivals. So, if you’re hoping to save some money and still look your best, you definitely need to check out these beauty products.
L’Oreal Voluminous Lash Paradise – $10.96
This mascara will have people asking you if you’re wearing falsies. The brush is extremely easy to use and the results will surprise you – your eyes will pop with lashes thinner and longer than Kendall Jenner’s legs. We appreciate you L’Oreal.
MARCELLE Smokey Eyeshadow Palette – $15.99
If your eyeshadow needs an upgrade this summer, try this versatile easy-to-use Marcelle Smokey Eyeshadow palette that has all you need and more. Whether you’re getting ready for work or heading to date night, this timeless and versatile palette has got you covered. The nude shades will easily elevate any ordinary eye and add a splash of sophistication with its luminous shimmer hues.
Maybelline Master Contour V-Shape Duo Stick – $14.99
Contouring has never been so quick and simple. Maybelline’s Master Contour V-Shape Duo Stick creates the illusion of shape and highlight in just two easy steps. Apply and blend the dark shade along the jawline and the hollows of your cheeks for structure then use the light shade to enhance the high points of your face.
E.L.F. Illuminating Palette – $6.00
This palette is great for those looking to contour AND sport an all-over shimmer. The compact includes four illuminating shades to blend or use alone; they can even be used as eyeshadows to create a monochromatic look.
MARCELLE I-Bronze Bronzing Powder – $14.99
This bronzing powder will help you create the perfect sun-kissed look and add that healthy glow to your skin. You can also use it as a contour to emphasize your features.
Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water – $8.47
Micellar cleansing water is trending right now and we’re all about it. It’s a non-harsh way to remove all makeup, even waterproof mascara. If you haven’t tried this bestseller yet, you should definitely grab one next time you’re at Shoppers.
MARCELLE City Multi-Protection Tinted Cream – $19.99
Ditch your foundation this summer and opt for a tinted moisturizer that’ll keep your face hydrated and protect your skin from UV rays at the same time! This amazing multi-protection tinted cream is supercharged with antioxidants, green tea, aloe and chamomile act like a shield to protect your skin from environmental stressors.
Sun Bum Sunscreen Face Stick SPF 30 – $12.99
This face stick is hypoallergenic, cruelty-free, 100% vegan and comes in a small cute package that you can carry with you everywhere you go.
Origins Flower Fusion Jasmine Softening Sheet Mask – $9
Soften your skin with this jasmine-infused mask that will leave your face silky-smooth in minutes. Made of 100% bamboo, this soft sheet is infused with fortified flower wax, boasting properties to effectively moisturize and hydrate. Just close your eyes and let the sweet scent of jasmine take you away.
What drugstore beauty products do you swear by? Let us know in the comments.
Featured image: Instagram/ @marcellecosmetics
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It’s the most wonderful time of the year… Warehouse sale season!
This spring, there are tons of sales you should add to your shopping roster. From furniture and electronics to clothing, shoes and accessories, it’s easy to treat yo’self with discounts of up to 80% off! Below you’ll find some of the more notable Toronto warehouse sales happening in upcoming weeks.
L’Oreal Warehouse Sale
When: March 15 – April 2
Where: 1 Steelcase Rd. West (Unit 5), Markham
What: This invite-only ticketed event features all of the makeup, fragrances and hair products under the L’Oreal umbrella, all at great prices. Think Lancome, Biotherm, Ralph Lauren and more. Didn’t snag an invite? Don’t fret. You can find individual sellers offering tickets on Kijiji. Get full sale details here.
casalife Warehouse Sale
When: April 6-10
Where: 350 Evans Ave., Etobicoke
What: Head to casalife’s Evans Ave. location to save up 75% off furniture and home accessories at the 8th annual casalife Warehouse Sale. Get full sale details here.
Muttonhead x Naked and Famous Warehouse Sale
When: April 6-9 and 20-23
Where: 337 Roncesvalles Ave., Toronto
What: One sale, two weekends and locations. Save on the largest selection of previous season samples and out of season stock for Toronto brand Muttonhead and Naked and Famous Denim. Get full sale details here.
Samteck Warehouse Sale
When: April 7-9, 21-23 and 28-30
Where: 1100 Rodick Rd., Markham
What: Save up to 80% on over 50,000 products including name brand laptops, TVs, kitchen appliances, furniture and more. Get full sale details here.
Nordstrom Warehouse Sale
When: April 10-17
Where: The International Centre (Hall 6), 6900 Airport Rd., Mississauga
What: StyleDemocracy is hosting the Nordstrom Warehouse Sale in Mississauga. Save up to 80% off on your favourite Nordstrom designers and labels. Take an extra 10% off on opening day by signing up to be a StyleDemocracy INsider here. Get full sale details here.
Designer Shoe Warehouse Sale
When: April 13-17
Where: The International Centre (Hall 1), 6900 Airport Rd., Mississauga
What: Because you can never have enough shoes, you’ll want to check out this warehouse sales that features footwear from brands like Sam Edelman, Naturalizer, Vince Camuto, Via Spiga and more. Get full sale details here.
Crocs, Roots and Golf Warehouse Sale
When: April 13-17
Where: Markham Fairgrounds
What: This trio may be random, but there are deals to be had. There will be thousands of Crocs for the whole family, plus Callaway and TaylorMade golf gear, and Roots samples and seconds. Get full sale details here.
Did we miss any Toronto warehouse sales? Let us know in the comment section.
Featured Image: Instagram/@tobruckave shares her Nordstrom Warehouse Sale Vancouver finds
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Toronto’s Newest Fashion event – Toronto Women’s Fashion Week has officially announced that L’Oreal -Canada’s leading beauty brands Maybelline New York, Redken 5th Avenue NYC and essie as the event’s official beauty partners.
The world-renowned beauty brands will come together under one roof from March 9th to the 14th for the newly launched fashion week. The brands will assist Canada’s most esteemed designers create memorable runway looks. Lead makeup artist Grace Lee will be back at the helm as the event’s lead make-up artist.
“As a brand that empowers women to make a statement and explore new looks, Maybelline New York is proud to keep growing its roots in fashion through this partnership with Toronto Women’s Fashion Week alongside sister brands Redken 5th Avenue NYC and essie. Always at the forefront of trends, we are thrilled to be the Official Beauty Partners of this new initiative, celebrating Canadian fashion” says Cammie Guest, Brand Director, Maybelline New York & essie.
“We are very excited to partner with the global brands of Maybelline New York, Redken 5th Avenue NYC and essie, known for their beauty expertise and unparalleled creativity. No doubt, they are a perfect fit with Canada’s newest, most prominent women’s fashion week devoted to showcasing the country’s most iconic designers and the next generation of emerging talent,” says Jeff Rustia, Executive Director and Founder of Toronto Women’s Fashion Week.