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Beauty Favorites What's In My Bag

Favorite Makeup Bags

July 28, 2020

Best Chic Makeup Bags | The Beauty Look Book

By popular request I’m doing an updated roundup of my favorite makeup bags. A number of you wanted a comparison between a few brands like The Daily Edited and Cuyana so after having tested several styles I have a review for you today! Many of these can double as travel bags – I have a separate article on travel packing and travel makeup bags you can read here. You can always click on my Packing Tips tag as well to see what I was able to fit in different cases on various trips. Today’s post focuses more on makeup bags for the purse, to organize essentials at home or day trips rather than travel.

Best Makeup Bags, Ikea Billy Bookshelf, Daily Edited, Cuyana | The Beauty Look Book

The Daily Edited

The Daily Edited is a line I’ve used since 2017 and I think they have great products! The large cosmetic cases in Black and Taupe have held up really well since I bought them back in 2017. I’ve used them during moves, while traveling across country and on numerous vacations (see what I packed for a San Francisco trip here). Right now my two favorites from the brand are the Large Cosmetic Case and the Clear Cosmetic Case. I order these directly from their website and shipping is usually very fast.

The Daily Edited Large Cosmetic Case

TDE The Daily Edited Large Cosmetic Bag Taupe | The Beauty Look Book

The Daily Edited Large Cosmetic Case Review | The Beauty Look Book

The Daily Edited Large Cosmetic Case $100 – I have this style in two colors, Taupe and Black. I love that you can customize the monogram with different styles of fonts or icons! I opted for the blind embossing for a more subtle look with these but love the gold lettering too. The large size has a really wide base which makes it sturdy to stand up on its own without tipping over. It has one large open interior compartment inside. I like this style (versus having pockets) because you can fit more inside.

  • Made of saffiano leather, fabric lining large open interior
  • Measures 5.3″ high, 8.9″ wide and 4.3″ deep
  • Also available in a small size and duo set of small + large

The Daily Edited Clear Cosmetic Case

Best Clear Makeup Bag Beauty Blog Review

The Daily Edited Clear Cosmetic Case $60 is another favorite. This is smaller than the Large Cosmetic Case and is clear so you can see everything inside. I like that it’s smaller so it is easier to carry around in a tote. The PVC is easy to clean (I like to use Novus Plastic Clean). They make a flat clear pouch too but seem to be frequently sold out of the colors. You can see a side by side of the cosmetic vs flat pouch in this post here.

  • Made of clear PVC, leather bottom/edging
  • Measures 4″ high, 8″ wide, 2″ deep

Cuyana

So many of you have asked for more reviews on Cuyana bags. I think they make beautiful classic staples that will last a long time. Before I ordered my first item I didn’t think they would live up to the hype or be worth the price. However after buying several pieces I’ve fallen in love with the simple and minimalist designs! They’re well made and functional. The overall composition of the Cuyana bags is thicker than The Daily Edited. Shape, designs, material and sizes are also different. I cannot say that one is better than the other, they’re both different and special in their own ways.

Cuyana Travel Case Duo Makeup Bag | The Beauty Look Book

Cuyana Leather Travel Case Set

Cuyana Travel Set Black Makeup Bag

Cuyana Leather Travel Case Set $120 (additional for monogram) – This is the set so many of you asked me to review. I like it a lot more than I expected to – I actually love it. The leather is thick and sturdy, I love the lining which is easy to wipe clean. The small one is perfect for on-the-go and the large one is nice for travel or larger bottles. I opted for the smaller font monogram but wish I had picked the larger option. (All sales are final for monogram pieces so I couldn’t exchange it.) Also a part of me wishes the monogram feature was included in the price like The Daily Edited, but I’m still happy with my purchase.

  • Made of a thick durable pebbled leather
  • Microsuede interior, large one has a flat pocket inside, small is open without a pocket
  • Large case measures 12″ wide, 7″ tall, 3.5″ deep
  • Small case measures 8″ wide, 5″ tall, 2.5″ deep

Cuyana Vanity Case and Tech Case

Cuyana Vanity Case and Tech Case

Two additional items I have are the Cuyana Vanity Case $95 and Tech Case $65. These are available individually and made of the same material as the Travel Case Duo. I’ve actually featured the Vanity Case in the Ecru color before but it seems they’ve recently updated it so it no longer has an exterior pocket and pouch. The Blush featured above is the current version. I like the Tech Case as a makeup bag but it’s also really nice to carry cords, chargers etc because of the compact size.

Vanity Case $95

  • Measures 9.5″ wide, 5.5″ tall, 3.38″ deep
  • Interior flat patch pocket

Cuyana Vanity Case Blush | The Beauty Look Book

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Tech Case below $65

  • Measures 7″ wide, 3.5″ tall, 2.5″ deep

Cuyana Tech Case | The Beauty Look Book

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Truffle

Truffle Clear Makeup Bags

Long time readers know I’m a huge fan of the Truffle Clarity Jetset $88 and the Clarity Clutch Mini $40. Both are great for travel or for packing up essentials on-the-go. Having a clear pouch makes it easier to see everything inside so there’s not as much digging around trying to find things. The jetset option is compact enough to fit inside a medium tote or beach bag. The flat clutches won’t hold as much since they’re flat but it’s perfect for holding a few essential items and keeping things more compact/organized.

There are other variations and sizes available for travel. You can see other Truffle options I’ve used for travel in this post here.

Luxury Splurge: Dior

Dior Oblique Pouch | The Beauty Look Book

Dior Oblique Pouch Navy | The Beauty Look Book

Last two are splurge items! I bought the Dior Oblique Jacquard Pouch in the blue variation and I love it! It’s made of a canvas material and has an interior pocket for cards if you want it to double as a clutch. It’s relatively small and petite so I can use it either as a super fancy makeup pouch or clutch. It measures 15 cm high by 19 cm tall and 5 cm deep. For reference I believe it’s similar in sizing to the Louis Vuitton Toiletry Case 19. This was more of a recent splurge purchase so I haven’t had a chance to use it very much but I love the print and think it’s just so beautiful!

Luxury Splurge: Hermes

Hermes Bain New Yachting case, small model

The last splurge I want to share is a flat canvas pouch. I ordered the Hermes Bain New Yachting Case in the small size in Navy and Red (one for Andrew, one for me). They’re approximately 9″ wide by 6 inches tall, flat, made of canvas and perfect to carry small on-the-go things like a mini camera, small sunscreen, lip balm, mini perfume etc. It’s made of cotton canvas so I don’t know how long it will stay clean or last but I thought they were so cute!

Leather Care

Coach Leather Cleaner + Moisturizer, Cuyana Leather Cleaner

I don’t usually use any product to treat or clean my leather goods, but I just started looking for some cleaners and moisturizers. Three options I’ve tried on a few makeup bags are from Coach and Cuyana – I really like the Coach set. I also tried the Cuyana Cleaner and it worked well to clean up small makeup smudges I had on the exterior of a few bags. I haven’t put them to an extensive test yet but plan on using them more. Many years ago I used to use Apple Guard and remember liking it but haven’t repurchased in a long time.

I had a recent mishap and accidentally splashed some nail polish remover on a leather wallet. Even though I wiped it immediately it still left some marks and made the leather look dried out with a slight white cast. After some research I decided to try the Coach Leather Moisturizer on it and thankfully it restored it back to normal! If you have any that you love let me know in the comments.

That wraps up my current favorite makeup bag roundup! Hope you found it helpful. Out of all the ones I own I can’t pick a favorite. I think the quality and look of the Cuyana bags are the most luxe with the thick pebbled leather, but I also love how durable and sturdy the saffiano is with The Daily Edited.

Do you have a favorite makeup bag or bags? Let me know in the comments!

Shop the Post:

 

I’m hosting a summer giveaway! Open internationally but you must be 18 years or older to enter. ONE person will be selected from the entries in the widget below to win a $200 eGift card to either Cuyana or The Daily Edited. Simply use the widget and complete ALL the entry steps (partial entries will not qualify). Giveaway runs through August 1, 2020 11:45 PM EST. I’ll select a winner within 72 hours after the giveaway ends and email them directly. Selected winner must respond within 72 hours or another person will be selected in their place. Not sponsored or affiliated.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Beauty Favorites Packing What's In My Bag

Travel Makeup Pouches I Never Leave Home Without

April 8, 2019

Best Travel Makeup Bags | The Beauty Look Book

If you’re in search of a good travel makeup bag I have a few favorites I’m sharing today! I’ve put quite a few to the test over the years and I’m rounding up the ones I swear by to haul around my makeup for travel. I’ve tried so many different brands, sizes and styles over many trips. I’m constantly testing different shapes in search of the best ones to pack my makeup. Finding the best makeup bag for me depends on trip length and destination. I like to have different options for makeup vs. skin and hair as I keep things separated by product type so it’s easier for me to find things. I also like flat zip or snap closure pouches to carry around with me as well. Today I’m sharing the three travel pouches I brought with me on my most recent trip along with more thoughts and comparisons on a few different styles/shapes.

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The Daily Edited

The Daily Edited Large Cosmetic Case Review | The Beauty Look Book

The Daily Edited makes some of my favorite travel makeup cases. They functional, chic, well made and I love the personalization options! I really love their Large Cosmetic Case. It’s roomy with a wide base so I can fit quite a bit inside. I own this in a couple colors and I’ve brought this one on every single trip since I purchased it in fall 2017. It has a saffiano textured finish and both have held up really well. Another one of my favorites is their Transparent Cosmetic Case for an affordable option to the Anya Hindmarch Inflight Bags. You can read the review plus comparison in this post here. Quick note that since I bought mine The Daily Edited has changed the design slightly of the trim which you can see on their website. I usually bring the transparent one with me as well but there was a new bag from Truffle that I wanted to try this trip.

Closer look at The Daily Edited Large Cosmetic Case in Black ($100). I picked the smaller font option with blind embossing. It measures 5.3″ high x 8.9″ wide x 4.3″ deep.

The Daily Edited Large Cosmetic Case Review | The Beauty Look Book

Skincare and haircare I packed inside the bag this trip:

 

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Truffle

Truffle Clarity Jumbo Jetset vs Regular Jetset Small

Top: Clarity Jumbo Jetset 9″ W X 3″ H X 6″ D
Bottom: Clarity Jetset 7 1/2” W X 2″ H X 5 1/4” D

Truffle has been a long time favorite as well – I carry their flat pouches with me pretty much everywhere I go. I have them in my purse, in my gym bag and they are always part of my travel uniform. I’ve used these for years and found that their plastic material and leather has held up really nicely even with regular use. Similar to any clear material the plastic will get get dirty with smudges but it’s easy to clean. I clean mine with Novus Plastic Clean and Shine every once in a while and it removes all the sand, debris and smudges. For travel I always pack their Clarity Jetset Case with me. They’re small enough to throw in my tote for day-to-day. They’re also good for bringing some inflight essentials with you. For ideas on how to use it, you can see what I packed inside for our California trip last year in this post here. I also pack my on-the-go fitness beauty essentials inside it for when we go out and run. Truffle just launched a Clarity Jumbo Jetset Case which is a larger version and has two zip around compartments. It’s longer and deeper so can fit more things like longer makeup compacts (I put my Naked Reloaded inside and it fit perfectly!). One half has an elastic band to help hold things in place.

A closer look at the Clarity Jumbo Jetset Case ($125). Measures 9″ W X 3″ H X 6″ D

Truffle Clarity Jumbo Jetset review via The Beauty Look Book

Truffle Clarity Jumbo Jetset review Via The Beauty Lo

What I fit inside the Jumbo Jetset:

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Clear Envelope /Flat Pouches

Ouai Mini Envelope Clutch Review via The Beauty Look Book

The third thing I never leave home without is a flat clear pouch. Ouai also makes some of my favorite clear envelope pouches. Every time I feature one I’m asked by everyone where it’s from! There are two sizes, a Mini Envelope Clutch ($15) and a Larger Envelope Clutch ($25). They are so convenient to travel with because you can see everything inside it! I’ve found them on their website, unfortunately they’re frequently sold out, the larger one is in stock right now on the US site, mini is available on their UK site. I’ve seen them restock a number of times in the past on the US website so I’d recommend keeping an eye if you have this on your wishlist. I also really love the Truffle Clarity Clutches in Small and Mini sizes to throw in my travel bag. Long time readers know these are always with me!

Inside the Ouai Mini Envelope that I brought to Miami with me (I also carry it with me to the beach at home as well):

 

Here’s a side by side of the Truffle Clarity Mini ($40), measures 8″ L x 5″ H
Ouai Large Envelope Clutch ($25), measures 11.5″ L x 8.25″ H
Ouai Mini Envelope Clutch ($15), measures approx. 6.5″ x 6.5″

Truffle Mini Clarity Clutch, Ouai Envelope Clutches

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I really love having a clear makeup bag so I can see what is inside. Flat pouches are easier to pack into a tote because they’re slimmer and keep things compact, but if you have larger compacts or bottles they tend to stretch out the clear plastic options. Some additional thoughts:

  • The Daily Edited Large Cosmetic bag is my favorite makeup bag for traveling. It’s quite roomy and the shape works well for my travel style and needs. It can hold a lot of minis, compacts, lipsticks etc. The only downside is there isn’t really a separate compartment for things like brushes. If you like a large open compartment style bag this is the best one I’ve tried.
  • For the clear zip bag options:
    • Truffle’s Clarity Jumbo Jetset Case is the largest option I own. It’s long enough to hold compacts like Urban Decay’s Naked Palette with extra room. The elastic strap in the bottom is handy but pretty stretchy. I like that it has a handle on one end but that still lies flat against the bag. Since it’s bigger it can hold more liquids and stack more products inside. The price is on the high side but it’s very well made.
    • The Daily Edited Transparent Cosmetic Case is the middle of the road option for size. It’s been a great one for me on many trips and I still think it’s worth the splurge. This one is long enough to hold the Urban Decay Naked Palette as well, but the Truffle Jumbo option is larger. If you travel with carry-on suitcases or smaller soft bags this is going to be a better option as it’s more compact and won’t take up as much luggage space.
    • The Truffle Clarity Jetset is the smallest single compartment option I have. The size is perfect to throw in your gym bag or put in a small tote/travel bag for under the seat. It can hold small chargers, cords, passport, notebooks, etc. for easy access. Since it’s smaller it’s easy to fit into a carry on bag or tote. I’ve found it very versatile!
  • Do you need more than one? I like to have different pouches to separate items by category when I travel so it’s easier to find things. I keep skin/hair care in one pouch, electronics/chargers in another, makeup in a different bag, etc.
  • Pricing is high for both The Daily Edited and Truffle, but I’ve found them 100% worth it. They occasionally do flash sales or holiday sales so I’d recommend signing up for their newsletter or follow on social for notifications on special offerings. I just ordered some more Daily Edited pieces because they had a site-wide sale for 2 days last week, can’t wait to show you what I bought!
  • I’ve linked a few other more affordable clear bag alternatives below. You can definitely find other clear bag alternatives at lower price points but I still think Truffle and The Daily Edited have exceptional quality for the price! MAC also carries some clear bag squares and pouches online that I’ve tried in the past and liked. They didn’t hold up quite as well and I had to throw a few away though.

 

 

Hope you enjoyed this post! Let me know if I can answer any other questions about these cases! What makeup cases do you like to travel with? Do you usually go on shorter trips or longer ones?

Truffle Jumbo Jetset gifted. All other items featured purchased by me.

 

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What's In My Bag

The Fall Transition Makeup Bag

September 19, 2016
Fall Beauty Makeup Bag - The Beauty Look Book

As we transition to the fall season I feel a shift in my mood for makeup to cooler tones and my fragrance preference has changed for deeper more complex kinds of scents. I always look forward to new launches and beauty trends for fall and this season has brought quite a few smaller mini collections rather than color-themed launches (with a few exceptions). There doesn’t appear to be any “it” color this season and if right now you’re unsure of what to wear for the upcoming fall season I say go for anything! I really don’t think you can go wrong with any color this season whether it’s shopping your own stash or adding a new lip or nail color. Mauves and plums will always be a classic go-to for the fall and will be wearable all the way through winter. I’ve teamed up with Nordstrom to round up some of my favorite timeless and classic colors. If you can’t wear purplish plums on the lips or cheeks, you may want to opt for light to neutral mauves or reddish plums which I feel are easier to pull off.

Since everyone has different interests and preferences for what they like in beauty, I’ve split the beauty recommendations by category for lips, cheeks, nails, eyes and fragrance. Many of you have asked for a full dedicated feature on fall fragrance for perfumes and one for home fragrance – I promise to have one on each very soon! I’m testing a few more items and will hope to have reviews over the next two weeks.

Up first are the lip recommendations, my personal favorite. Quite a few of you have asked for neutral light pink-mauve lip recommendations for colors that won’t turn too blue or fuchsia on the lips. I have a wide range from light to deep that I like.

Shown above:

  1. MAC Viva Glam Ariana Grande II Lipglass is a really pretty soft neutral mauve lipglass. It has a tiny bit of shimmer and looks very natural on the lips.
  2. MAC Lipstick in Modesty has been a classic light pink mauve lip color. It’s similar to Syrup which is another very pretty color. Modesty has a bit more warmth with more pink. The coverage is more opaque as well. They’re very close – some of my friends have told me they can’t wear Syrup because it’s a bit too cool toned, in that case opt for Modesty!
  3. Clarins Instant Light Lip Perfector #07 is a sheer tinted balm. It’s also a light mauve color and the formula is a really good one to add a hint of color + hydration.
  4. Bobbi Brown Luxe Lip Colors are relatively new to me. I discovered them this year and Bobbi is one of the newest shades that is a grege-beige color that doesn’t wash me out. It’s creamy and gives the lips full coverage with one swipe.
  5. Diptyque repackaged their Nourishing Lip Balm in tube format this season. It has a nicely hydrating formula that’s thick and coats the lips with a veil of moisture. In terms of clear squeeze tube balms I think the AmorePacific Moisture Bound Lip Treatment is still my favorite for sensitive lips that can’t tolerate scent. Both are very good though.
  6. Clarins Instant Light Lip Perfector #08 is a pretty warm deep plum red. Finish is sheer to medium. The color is deeper and brighter than the rest of the shades in the formula so this shows up better on the lips.
  7. Bobbi Brown Nourishing Lip Color in Desert Rose is a super creamy rose berry kind of shade. It’s a lush full coverage formula and very comforting on the lips. 
  8. Chanel Rouge Allure Ink just launched in eight shades. Most are very bright and vibrant – I bought the only neutral which isn’t plum or mauve. Amoureux is a pinky peach color. The verdict is still out on this one. I’ll have a more detailed review soon but for now below is a sneak preview swatch.
  9. Chanel Rouge Coco Stylo in Recit is one of the prettiest plum reds I’ve tried before. This formula is excellent and I highly recommend it. All the shades are phenomenal in that range.
  10. Bobbi Brown Luxe Lip Color in Neutral Rose is one of the most classic kinds of warm pink rose colors I can think of.

Next are cheeks. I’m sure by now many of you are already well stocked on plums or mauves for lips. For me finding a coordinating cheek color has been tricky. I used to always gravitate towards peaches, corals or bronze for the cheeks for the summer and finding a good versatile cheek color to go with any variation of plum/mauve was tricky but I have managed to find three.

Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blush in Mood Exposure is one I find goes well with the lighter mauve lips or darker lips. For something a bit more neutral with brown and pink mixed in is Charlotte Tilbury Cheek to Chic in Sex on Fire. It has the prettiest soft glow to it (not overly shimmery) so it wears very naturally on the skin while adding color and depth. MAC Blush in Plum Foolery is a classic shimmery plum. The gold shimmer adds an interesting warmth to the skin which I find naturally flattering. In the event you don’t do shimmer on the cheeks, you may want to check out MAC Breath of Plum for a matte version.

For a good natural highlight and contour, I don’t think it gets more classic than the Charlotte Tilbury Filmstar Bronze and Glow. It goes with everything for me and I love the packaging. The texture is really soft and blendable so it won’t give you a harsh contoured look or sharp frost.

For eyes I love a good neutral shimmer whether it’s tan, taupe, pink or bronze. Two favorites have been the NARS Dual Intensity Eyeshadows in Himalia (tan) and Telesto (bronze). For fall NARS launched a shimmery warm pink Rigel. These work well as an easy all over wash to brighten the eyes. Mascara wise I’ve raved about the Bobbi Brown Eye Opening Mascara. I just bought a second tube for my on-the-go makeup bag. It thickens, volumizes, holds the curl and doesn’t smudge. It has a big fluffy brush which grabs my skimpy lashes and coats them evenly. I’m so glad I discovered it! Lash curling is always a must and I still find that the MAC Full Lash Curler has been performing really well for my eye shape.

Three shades shown above swatched below alongside a few other colors:

For nails I have yet to see an “it” polish color for fall. I think the two classics you can never go wrong with are a good vamp in which case Chanel Vamp is a classic or a classic nude pink. For me the two best neutral nude pinks are Chanel Organdi or Tom Ford Sugar Dune (paler on me). A new dark almost-black shade called Gris Obscur launched with the Lip Inks. I spotted it in store at counters so it should be available online very soon.

Last but not least are a few fragrances. As mentioned above I’ll have a full fall fragrance line up but these are three I’ll be transitioning from season to season. First is the Viktor and Rolf Flowerbomb which I still think is the perfect date night fragrance and the one my husband loves the most on me. It’s one I consider very mainstream but one I think is just so so good in a spicy floral kind of way. I love that the Travel Spray version is indeed a spritzer versus the roller-ball format. Replica Lipstick On is one of the prettiest feminine fragrances that smells like vintage makeup. It’s hard to describe in words except that it makes me feel girly without having that overly sweet smell. Le Labo Santal is one I recognize instantly on anyone who wears it whether they are male or female. I actually prefer it in candle form for the home but I love all things with any kind of sandalwood in them. 

What colors and scents are you wearing right now as we transition to fall? Are you embracing any on trend makeup shades or wearing classics? There are lots of great new fall beauty launches and each one has been unique in it’s own way.

Would love to hear what you’re keeping in your fall transition makeup bag or routine right now! For more recommendations Nordstrom has their Fall Beauty Trend Event section with Ultra Pretty Neutrals and Bold Shades of what is trending now at their stores.

Many thanks to Nordstrom for teaming up to sponsor this post. Press samples featured include the Clarins Instant Light Lip Perfectors, Chanel Rouge Coco Stylo, Chanel Vamp and Organdi and Replica Lipstick On.
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What's In My Bag

Inside My Bag: MAC Clear Bag Set

October 26, 2014

I’ve received lots of requests about clear makeup bags ever since I featured a clear Bobbi Brown cosmetic bag in a few of my inside my bag posts. Unfortunately it was a gift with purchase a few years ago and was never released for purchase which is too bad because it was well made and compact enough to fit into most of my smaller purses. I’ve been on the hunt for something similar but haven’t found anything quite like it. The Truffle Clarity Clutches are a favorite for their sleek look, high quality material and functional design but some have asked for other recommendations. I spotted these new MAC Clear Bag Sets ($25) and immediately went to my MAC counter to investigate. Size dimensions weren’t disclosed online so I wasn’t sure how small or large these were.

The MAC Clear Bag Set ($25) is a set of two sealable rectangular pouches. One side of each pouch is clear with a black back. They are sleek and compact and the set comes with two different sizes. The zipper glides nicely in a plastic format. Below shows what I was able to fit into each:

The Large Pouch measures approximately 9.4 inches by 5.75 inches. It fits quite a bit inside. I like my flat makeup bags to remain relatively flat so I didn’t pack it full. I was able to get the following inside the pouch:

The Small Pouch measures approximately 9.4 inches by 3.1 inches, this one is ideal for smaller sized items like small brushes, pencils, skinny objects or minis. What I was able to fit into the smaller clear front pouch:

Revlon Tweezers

They are both fairly compact in size. The flat design makes them fit easily into your purse and keep everything compact. The material is just ok. It’s nicely made but not the best quality. It’s not as good as the material used on my Bobbi Brown case or Truffle Pouch. The design of the MAC Clear Bag Set is basic and simple with a no-fuss look, but it lacks a hard backing and the trim is very minimal around the edges which makes it easy to bend. I had one corner folded (accidentally) after putting it inside my purse. It didn’t crease completely, but it did get mashed up a bit. The bag isn’t ruined and it will probably go back to its original shape if I lay it flat for a short while. I find these functional but in the past I have had issues with other brands of pouches and bags that have the plastic zipper seal – I’ve found they aren’t always the sturdiest and often become misaligned and the pouches stop sealing all together. Only time will tell with these, but so far they do seem to be pretty well made.

I’ve used these for a couple of weeks and they have held up pretty well although they aren’t the sturdiest makeup bags I’ve tried so I don’t know how long they will hold up. I like that the design is simple and sleek. They keep everything compact and having one clear side is nice so you don’t have to go digging through your makeup bag to find things. The simplicity in the design has a slight downside in the sense the trim is almost non-exisiting so it is very easy to bend. With thinner plastic material I do sometimes worry about it stretching if things don’t stay flat inside making the shape distorted.
Overall I think they are nice. I wouldn’t call them must-haves simply because I would have preferred something with a sturdier design. Still, they are functional and I find the price is reasonable for a set of two pouches. These would certainly be a good storage option for brushes if you are looking for something to store them on-the-go.
I purchased the MAC Clear Bag Set for $25 from Nordstrom. It’s also available at Macy’s and Maccosmetics.com. Do you have a favorite clear makeup bag?

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Uncategorized

Truffle Privacy Clutch in Blush

August 29, 2014

Truffle recently launched their Privacy Clutch ($54 each, 6 1/2″ H x 10 1/2″ W) in four colors White, Blush, Seaglass and Dove Grey. It’s a chic flat leather zip pouch perfect for carrying just the essentials. I recently discovered and fell in love with the Small Clarity Clutches for keeping beauty essentials compact in your tote or purse while making it easy to see what’s inside (no more digging of fishing around in your bag). The Privacy Clutch is a similar sleek option but one made of solid textured leather with a beautiful red lined interior. Truffle sent the Blush as a gift and I’ve found it perfect for on-the-go holding just the essentials. (Update, Truffle is offering free US shipping this weekend for Labor Day, use code LABORDAY at checkout.)
Items I’ve featured that fit inside my clutch:
Close up of the texture of the leather and detail features:
For size reference on the two kinds of Truffle clutches I own, the Small Clarity Clutches measure 7 1/2” H X 9 1/2” W. They are similar in size to the Privacy Clutches. Both styles come in four different colors White, Blush, Seaglass and Dove Grey. I can fit more items into the clear version, with the solid leather clutch, I need to stack things well otherwise they bulk up the pouch.

The construction of the Privacy Clutches are well made. The leather is sturdy, interior is nicely lined, zipper is also well constructed. When I told my husband I spent $40+ on the Clear Clutch, he said, “you spent what on a clear pouch?” but when he saw the actual product he was very impressed with the quality and design. He also approves of the Privacy version as well. Contents featured above all inside the pouch (minus the jewelry).

Bottom line love. The Privacy Clutch is functional as a makeup bag yet sleek enough to use as a stand alone clutch. At $52 I do find them on the pricey side for something simple, but those who own a Truffle Clutch or Pouch know that once you have one, you absolutely love it. The products from the line are sleek, classic and well made.

The Privacy Clutches retail for $54 each at Onetruffle.com. There are currently four color options. If you’re interested in other designs, they offer a variety of shapes, sizes and colors to choose from. Do you own any Truffle pouches or clutches? What’s your favorite?

Update: for Labor Day, Truffle is offering free US shipping on order with code LABORDAY. 

The Privacy Clutch was gifted by Truffle. The Clarity Clutch in Grey was purchased by me. For more information, refer to my Disclosures.

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Uncategorized

Truffle Clarity Clutches

August 14, 2014

I have an obsession with clear makeup pouches and flat clutches, so when I discovered a brand called Truffle that combined the two into one product I was beyond thrilled. I fell in love with this clear one by Bobbi Brown which was part of a GWP one year, I haven’t been able to find anything similar that I liked enough to purchase (Make Up For Ever
has similar ones but you can’t buy them online). The Truffle pouches
come pretty close but with a different design twist which I love. Truffle carries a number of different flat pouches that range in size, design, color and shape. I was particularly smitten with the shape and size of the Small Clarity Clutch ($42). It measures 7 1/2” tall X 9 1/2” wide and is designed with a luxe textured leather trim and gold plated hardware, and it’s size is TSA approved making it the perfect companion for any carry-on. Truffle kindly sent a white one for review, I loved it so much I bought another one in grey.

The small Clarity Clutches are compact enough to fit the essentials for makeup: compact, mini hand cream, lipgloss, eyeshadow stick, eyeliner, mini perfume and a lipstick. The plastic case is well made so it’s thick and sturdy yet flexible. The leather trim is well designed, it has a textured surface that is also extremely sturdy and holds the shape of the bag well. I’ve found these really good for organizing accessories and makeup. The small size helps me keep a well edited makeup bag. Those who have seen past Inside My Bag posts know I tend to have an overpacked makeup bag (even on the go).

When it comes to my purses or totes, I like bags that are flat so they slip in easily and don’t bulk up my bag. I like that these keep everything slim and compact. Here’s the Small Clarity Clutch next to my Prada Saffiano Tote which measures approximately 8 1/2″H x 13″W x 5″D for size comparison with makeup essentials stored inside:

Above shown includes: Small business cards
Chanel Glossimer Wild Rose
NARS Lip Gloss in Greek Holiday
By Terry Ombre Blackstar in Frozen Quartz
YSL Volupté Candy No. 14 Belle Cannelle
Hermes and Celine Bracelets
These are also great for the pool or beach to carry a few things with you. The clear pouch makes it easy to find things in your bag. Below is the Small White Clarity Clutch with beach and pool essentials tucked inside. For the beach the larger size would be more ideal to carry larger sunscreens, hair ties, a small comb etc.

J.crew Summer Straw Hat (similar)
Purex Hand Sanitizer mini
Tatcha Aburatorigami Blotting Papers

Overall a huge thumbs up. Even though the $42 price tag seems a bit steep for a small makeup bag, they are extremely well made clutches – the quality is definitely there in the material and design. The leather is thick and sturdy and the hardware is also very good. You can find out more about Truffle on their website www.onetruffle.com. Also follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for new on the latest releases, occasional promo codes and Truffle inspiration. There are a number of different pouch and clutch options to suit your personal taste.

I’d love to hear what your favorite makeup bags are. Do you have any favorites that are clear?

 
One clutch courtesy of Truffle for review consideration, the other clutch was purchased by me. For more information see my Disclosures.

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