Inside My Beauty Lineup: 30 Products from 5 Brands That Nail It Every Time

No gatekeeping—just my ultimate beauty lineup.

Collage of beauty products
(Image credit: Original illustration by Makena Frederick)

I'm a firm believer that a great beauty routine should feel a little like a mood board—equal parts aspirational and achievable, with the right mix of staples and "just because" finds. Some products earn a permanent spot on my top shelf while others cycle in and out, but lately, I've been in full discovery mode. Between buzzy launches and under-the-radar gems, my bathroom counter has become something of a beauty playground. (And honestly, I'm not mad about it.)

So I decided to streamline, if only slightly. Below, I spotlight five brands that always hit the mark and the 30 products that are running my routine. From primers that actually deliver to blushes that make you feel pulled together in seconds, this lineup covers every corner of the vanity.

Collage of CHANEL beauty products

(Image credit: Courtesy of CHANEL: original illustration by Makena Frederick)

When it comes to beauty, no one captures timelessness quite like Chanel. Every product feels intentional, classic, but never predictable. Whether it's the perfect red lip or that just-right skin tint that somehow makes you look like you've slept eight hours, Chanel Beauty always nails the balance between polish and ease. It's luxury you can actually live in, and it's always worth the spot in my lineup. Below, you'll find my six favorites that embody everything I love about the brand.

Collage of Elizabeth Arden products

(Image credit: Courtesy of Elizabeth Arden: original illustration by Makena Frederick)

Elizabeth Arden has always had a knack for creating makeup that feels timeless but never dated. The textures are effortless, the colors are wearable, and everything has an unmistakable polish. From the lipsticks to the luminous bases, this makeup enhances rather than hides. Ahead, see the six products that have earned a permanent spot in my routine.

Collage of ColourPop beauty products

(Image credit: Courtesy of ColourPop: original illustration by Makena Frederick)

ColourPop is the brand I turn to when I want makeup that's playful, bold, and effortlessly cool. From punchy eye shadows to lip shades that make a statement, everything feels fresh, fun, and instantly wearable. It's the perfect mix of trend-forward and everyday products, and I keep coming back for more. Shop my six favorites from ColourPop below.

Collage of Jouer products

(Image credit: Courtesy of Jouer: original illustration by Makena Frederick)

Jouer is my go-to when I want makeup that feels polished but not overworked. The textures are silky, the shades are versatile, and every product manages to look chic and totally wearable. I've rounded up my six favorites that I reach for again and again.

Collage of Stila Products

(Image credit: Courtesy of Stila: original illustration by Makena Frederick)

Stila is all about makeup that makes a statement without overdoing it. From shimmering shadows to long-wear liners, each product adds a hint of drama while staying approachable for everyday wear. The formulas glide on smoothly, the colors pop without feeling excessive, and everything makes it easy to create polished looks in minutes.

Isabelle Adler
Contributing Writer

Isabelle Adler is a New York–based contributing writer whose work spans fashion, beauty, and lifestyle. Her writing has been featured in Elle, Esquire, Good Housekeeping, Real Simple, and other leading publications. She loves exploring the intersection of style and culture.