I'm Pretty Cheap When It Comes to Eye Shadow—These Drugstore Picks Are Divine

There are plenty of beauty and skincare products I will gladly splurge on. A $166 serum? Sure, why not (especially when my Who What Wear colleagues give rave reviews). Night creams and moisturizers to revive my tired skin? Yes, please. A skincare tool I've been coveting? Add to cart. A foundation that looks like I'm wearing zero makeup? You got me!

But while there are plenty of beauty items I don't mind spending my hard-earned cash on, there are some that I'm extremely frugal about, like body lotion, haircare products, and eye shadow.

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(Image credit: @sarahayang)

Listen, I know the luxe, high-end eye shadows have some great qualities and benefits—they can be highly pigmented for a dramatic effect, they can last a long time, and they don't smudge. But I've found some affordable drugstore options that are just as good for me (and for my wallet).

Take a look at some of my favorites below and others I'm adding to my wish list.

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(Image credit: @sarennya)

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(Image credit: @sarah_novio)

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(Image credit: @madisonelainechertow)

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(Image credit: @spicy.mayo)
Managing Editor

Sarah is lifestyle writer and editor with over 10 years of experience covering health and wellness, interior design, food, beauty, and tech. Born and raised in Los Angeles, she attended New York University and lived in New York for 12 years before returning to L.A. in 2019.

In addition to her work on THE/THIRTY and Who What Wear, she held editor roles at Apartment Therapy, Real Simple, House Beautiful, Elle Decor, and The Bump (sister site of The Knot).

She has a passion for health and wellness, but she especially loves writing about mental health. Her self-care routine consists of five things: a good workout, “me” time on the regular, an intriguing book/podcast/playlist to unwind after a long day, naps, and decorating her home.