There’s an advent calendar in our office. I’ve gone out wearing a sequin dress. There are scarves with reindeers on in the shops. Yes people – Christmas is coming.
Of course, along with this festive build-up, comes the obligatory Christmas gift guides in almost every publication – you know, the ones that try to convince men do really like ornaments in the shape of woodland animals and that buying your aunt an £150 cashmere scarf is the norm.
No people! It’s not! We’re all fricking poor – which is why all the beauty buys in my little gift guide are under £20. Woohoo.
Topshop Eye Palette in Atmosphere – £16
I love the look of this little palette – in fact it would be almost too good to use were it not for the lovely, shimmery colours contained within. Topshop eye shadows are generally highly-pigmented and long-lasting, and the shades in this palette are striking yet neutral enough to flatter all eye colours. A good call.
Rimmel Kate Lasting Finish Lipstick Shade 1 – £5.49
Give your loved one the gift of the ultimate red lip with this beautiful scarlet shade from Kate Moss’s Rimmel collection. I can vouch for the fact this suits loads of different skin tones having shared it with scores of girls in the ladies loos (classy bird) – although unfortunately I can’t guarantee it will make the recipient look like Mossy.
Barry M Nail Polish Gold – £2.99
The perfect stocking filler? I can’t tell you how much I love this gold polish – it’s got a beautiful, elegant sheen to it rather than being sparkly, sparkly. sparkly (not that I have a problem with that!) – and would be the perfect festive shade for teenagers and mothers alike.
Max Factor False Lash Effect Mascara – £10.99
I’m yet to find someone who’s tried this mascara and not loved it. Personally I wouldn’t buy anything else – it has AMAZING lengthening, thickening and defining effects on the lashes, to the point where I have actually been asked lots of times if I’m wearing falsies. To which I reply “oh darling it’s all natural” of course.
Max Factor Color X-Pert Eye Liner in Lilac – £6.99
Another Max Factor one – this is the best coloured liquid liner I’ve come across, and a great gift for anyone who likes to be a bit adventurous with their make up without going completely wild. The colour is eye-catching yet pretty, and the application is very easy thanks to a non-spindly brush. I do hate a spindly brush.