Makeup is something that you either love or hate, and I really love it. As a result of that, I spent more money than I’d care to admit on makeup last year.  But I did try out some really amazing products, so I thought I would reflect on my top three favorite products that were released in 2016.

The first product I’d like to mention will come as no surprise to any makeup lover out there. The Anastasia Modern Renaissance palette took the cake for my favorite eyeshadow palette of the year.  From the velvety packaging to the extensive color selection, it easily became a palette I loved to reach for. Anastasia’s eyeshadow formula is completely unmatched, the consistency is super buttery and pigmented, and most importantly, easy to use and blend out.

Personally, I find Anastasia’s eyeshadows superior to any other big name brands out there, from MAC, Too Faced to Urban Decay, they all fall flat in comparison.  The colors in Modern Renaissance are gorgeous, they feature lots of warm pinks, reds, and auburns, and really give the palette and overall luxurious feel.

What I love most about this palette is that it’s so versatile, there isn’t one eyeshadow I wouldn’t use in there. Anastasia does a great job including really creamy matte transition colors to stunning smooth glitter shades that really makes it a one-stop-shop for every type of shadow you would need for your look. It truly is the perfect palette for your most basic to your boldest creations. The Modern Renaissance palette is available on the Anastasia website or in Sephora stores and online for $42.

My next favorite was something I really didn’t expect to love as much as I did. Benefit’s Roller Lash mascara was hands down the best mascara I have ever used.  I’ve tried a lot of mascaras, from drug store to high end, and none of them have really ever made that much a difference.  However, Roller Lash dramatically improves your lashes.  I don’t know how it works, but it curls your lashes better than even a lash curler can.  Roller Lash makes your lashes look super long and very separated and black, which is a must for someone with blonde lashes like myself.  I’d describe the formula as more of a mousse which makes it easy to coat through your lashes.  It is also great for layering but you can easily wear it with one coat on its own for a less dramatic look. It’s an awesome mascara and definitely one to check out if you are in the market for a new one. Roller Lash is available at Sephora for $25

Last but certainly not least, is the Kylie Cosmetics liquid lipsticks. I keep going back to these liquid lipsticks because they honestly last forever, which in my opinion is the most important job for a liquid lipstick. They are perfect because you can put them on in the morning before school or work, and never have to worry about reapplying them later. The formula is really smooth and offers one swipe coverage.  The liquid lipstick dry down completely so they are totally matte and don’t leave your lips feeling sticky.  It even gives the lip more of a pouted effect.  They offer a huge selection of colors from natural nudes to really bright statement colors. You can buy the liquid lipstick in singles or as lip kits with lip liners included. Personally for the extra $15 dollars I would only buy lip liners for really bold colors as the more nude colors apply nice enough on their own, but it’s a nice option for those just starting with makeup. Kylie Cosmetics is available exclusively on their website, and the single liquid lipsticks go for $15 whereas the lip kits with liners go for $30.

Overall, 2016 was a great year for makeup.  These are just a few of the amazing products released this year, but if you were looking for any new makeup I would absolutely recommend all of these products! To explore these favorites of mine check out Sephora or Kylie Cosmetics online, where all these are available!