FOUNDATION FAVOURITES

I don't know about other people, but personally, I'm yet to find that one foundation I will stick to and buy over and over again!? I often change my foundation and primer but I am yet to discover the one. However, I do think I've come close with Dior's 'Star' foundation! I've just finished my first bottle and I may purchase my second. Today I went into my local Fenwicks in Newcastle and got three samples of different foundation - the YSL Ink Fusion Foundation, Clarins True Radiance and Clarins Everlasting Foundation. I've heard great things about Clarins foundation so i'm hoping it does not disappoint, if it does then back to the Dior! I do think its really important to 'try before you buy', especially with the pricier foundations.

1) Dior Star Foundation £28.80 - Like I've said my favourite foundation yet! I'd say my skin type is dry to normal and this foundation gives great coverage, I'd say around a medium coverage so not too heavy looking at all, also giving you a radiant glow and the staying power is great!!!

2) Estee Lauder Foundation £26.50-£29.50 -  I caved and purchased this foundation a few months ago due to the hype surrounding it - people naming it their go to foundation for years. However, for me..it's not so great. On my type of skin it gives an almost matte finish and I find it very very heavy, almost cakey, not the look I want! I occasionally mix it with a tinted moisturiser for a night out when I want to look a bit more done up and do not want my foundation to budge. However, I have seen it looking great on other girls so maybe it's just not for dry-normal skin.

3) Clinique Supermoisture Tinted Moisturiser £22.50- First of all, it's not a foundation it's a tinted moisturiser but do not let this put you off. If you're after the dewy natural look then this is absolutely perfect. I have purchased this twice, a rarity for me but I prefer it in the summer months with a bit of a tan as it is very natural.

4) Maybeline Fit Me Foundation £7.99 - Well....I've seen many reviews on this foundation as a great 'drug store' (whats the British equivalent to this term!?) cosmetic. I can agree it gives a really good coverage, slightly sheer and dewy, great! However, it doesn't stay on for that long and I've noticed if I do use this on a daily basis it tends to irritate my skin giving me the odd spot.

5) Primer - Clarins Beauty Flash Balm - great product if you're wanting a 'brighter' or more radiant look to your foundation, also, certainly makes it last longer. To finish I normally spritz a couple of sprays of MACs 'fix'.

Also I've been seeing a lot of posts/pictures of the 'Beauty Blender' but with the price tag of £14-16 I didn't fancy purchasing...a sponge...for £16. So I took to Ebay and found this alternative for under £5! I am enjoying applying my foundation with this but feel it's best for concealer or countouring. I'd stick to  a normal foundation brush otherwise.

Overall, I do think investing in a good foundation is wise, only out of personal experience though! I would love to find a cheaper alternative that will give me a sheer, dewy finish which can stay on all day. Any recommendations?

Amy x