Even though coming home from the beach was bittersweet, it felt a little like Christmas morning when I saw 2 rather large packages on my doorstep.

I totally forgot I ordered some necessary goodies from Birchbox before I left. Let’s just say when it comes to most makeup (especially drug store brands), I’m a little bit of an impulsive buyer, but not in this case. I’ve done a little research on these recent makeup buys and they’re more than happy to be in my makeup bag.

 Beautyblender® original | I’ve watched hundreds of YouTube makeup tutorials and knew I had to get a BeautyBlender. Some of you might know what it is, but it’s this porous sponge that’s ideal for CC cream, foundation or even contouring. I’ve done some research, you guys it was a pretty necessary purchase. 

Beautyblender® micro.mini | Ok, so I wasn’t immediately going to add this mini blender to my shopping cart, but to get free shipping I had to spend $40+ and I wasn’t about to pay shipping. That’s called, rationalizing at its best. Even though it wasn’t initially on my buy list, I love this mini sponge just as much as the original. It’s perfect for highlighting cheekbones or strobing, whatever you prefer to call it.

Eyeko + Alexa Chung ‘Eye Do’ Liquid Eyeliner | The flawless cat eye isn’t necessary my strong suit (I’m trying, ok?). Despite, my lack of a steady hand – I knew this liner was soon going to make its way into my makeup bag and boy was I right. I tried other less expensive brands, but they didn’t quite make the cut (smudgy, didn’t last all day, etc.) This Eyeko liner’s felt tip makes it easy to apply (it’s basically a Sharpie) and it lasts all day.

Eyeko + Alexa Chung ‘Eye Do’ Mascara Lengthen & Strengthen | Rule #1 – Any freebie mascara is a good mascara to me. This mascara was free with the liquid liner and I must say Eyeko, you know a way to a girl’s heart and lashes. The jagged fiber tip fanned out my lashes perfectly.