As someone who loves nothing more than lying in bed for as long as she can get away with, I need my mornings to be as efficient as possible, and that includes getting myself ready for work. If you've read any of my articles, then you'll already know that I favour a quick and easy makeup routine that I can practically do with my eyes closed (although I wouldn't risk it). As long as I've got a glowing base, a slick of mascara and hydrated lips, I'm good to go. However, as a beauty editor, I often find that people assume I opt for the most expensive products on the market to deliver the best results, but that's simply not the case.
Don't get me wrong—I'm lucky enough to be sent lots of luxurious, high-end makeup that I love to use for special occasions, but when it comes to my day-to-day routine, I know I can rely on a few trusty, affordable products that have remained staples in my collection for years. In my opinion, there are so many purse-friendly brands that give their luxe competitors a serious run for their money.
Junior beauty editor Grace Lindsay always favours a natural, glowing makeup look.
Let's face it: none of us want to be spending our entire monthly paycheck buying foundation and mascara, which is why I've put together my go-to affordable makeup routine to share with you all. These products have earned me so many compliments on my makeup over the years, and I like to think that they're proof that you don't need to spend a fortune in order to get expensive-looking results. All of the items below are quick and easy to use, and when added up, the whole lot comes in at less than £100. Keep on scrolling for all the details.
1. Primer
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First up, I love applying a glowy primer to prep my skin and help my makeup last all day. My favourite affordable one is this Wonderfilter primer from BEAUTY PIE, which gives your complexion the most naturally dewy finish.
2. Foundation
For me, this is one of those beauty products that I just couldn't live without. If you like a lighter base but you still want a bit of coverage, you have to try this Rimmel foundation. It glides onto the skin, gives a radiant finish and doesn't crease throughout the day.
3. Concealer
I feel like everyone has heard of this concealer, and for good reason. The sponge applicator makes covering any dark circles quick and easy, and it's great for blemishes too. Honestly, I'm yet to find another concealer that competes with this.
4. Powder
I'm not too fussy when it comes to powder, and this Rimmel one is great for getting rid of shine and setting your makeup in place. I tend to only apply it under my eyes and across my T-zone as I don't like a completely matte look, but I do make sure to pop it in my handbag before I leave the house in case my skin gets oily throughout the day.
5. Bronzer
To add a little warmth to my face, I quickly swipe some of this matte bronzer from NYX across my cheekbones and the sides of my forehead. Since I discovered it, this brand has quickly become one of my favourite affordable places to shop for makeup, as the formulas always deliver.
6. Blusher
I picked up this blusher on a total whim one day and I've never looked back. Although I like to switch between cream and powder formulas, I find powder blush a lot quicker for those busy mornings, and this one gives a beautiful flush of colour to the cheeks. I also have the peach shade, which is perfect for summer.
7. Brow Wax
I definitely don't have the patience to spend hours filling in my brows, but I do like to apply a brow gel or wax to give them that groomed, slightly laminated look. This one from Morphe is the best I've found for keeping the hairs in place all day, and you can even purchase the brush to help apply the product.
8. Eye Shadow
Speaking of Morphe, if you're looking for an affordable eyeshadow palette, you can't go wrong with this brand. I'm still amazed at how many shades you get for the price, not to mention how pigmented the formulas are. The shadows are so easy to blend onto the lids, and I like to take the darker colour with an angled brush to create a quick eyeliner wing.
9. Mascara
Even if I had all the money in the world, I would still purchase L'Oréal mascaras. You just can't beat them. I don't have very long or thick lashes, but whenever I apply this particular one, everyone asks me what mascara I'm wearing.
10. Lips
Most mornings I apply a quick coat of lip balm or a hydrating lip mask before heading out the door, but if I have a few extra seconds I like to add a swipe of gloss to finish my glowy makeup look. This one from Kiko leaves your lips so shiny and hydrated, without that sticky feeling that I can't stand.
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