How to Build a Capsule Makeup Bag: 10 Essentials
The 10 essentials
- Base: a foundation or skin tint.
- Concealer for under-eyes and blemishes.
- Brows: a brow pencil or gel.
- Mascara to open up the eyes.
- Cream blush for a healthy flush.
- Bronzer for warmth.
- Highlighter for glow.
- A neutral eye palette.
- A lip oil or lipstick.
- Setting spray to lock it in.
Make it work harder
Choose multi-use products — a cream blush that works on lips, a bronzer that doubles as eyeshadow — to keep the bag light. Travel sizes are perfect for this; browse travel & minis and the full makeup edit.
Frequently asked questions
What makeup do I really need?
A base, concealer, brow product, mascara, blush and a lip product cover most looks. Add bronzer, highlighter, a neutral palette and setting spray to complete the kit.
How do I keep my makeup bag minimal?
Choose multi-use products (cream blush for lips, bronzer for eyes) and stick to versatile, neutral shades that work day to night.
Are travel-size products good value?
They're ideal for a capsule bag, trying new products and travelling. Full sizes are better value per ml for everyday staples.
Shop the edit
Makeup · Foundation & Base · Blush · Brow Makeup · Travel & Mini Sizes
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Compare the exact format
Ready To Wear Lash Extension Dry Fiber Lash Extender - Black, No Glue Needed, Adds Instant Length & Volume: Dry lash fibres are a separate format from mascara. Check the supplied application and eye-area warnings rather than treating them as a substitute for a growth serum.
Pixi CC Crayon Bright Undereye Corrector — Soft Peach (1.2 g) concentrated peach color-correcting pencil for fair to tan, blendabl: Pixi CC Crayon Soft Peach 1.2 g is a colour-correcting pencil, rather than a full-face foundation. Use its exact shade and format when comparing a smaller makeup kit.
Products to compare
Check the exact size, shade and pack on each listing. Prices and availability below come from the current catalogue.
