Target launches designer makeup lines

I wouldn’t say that Target is my top destination for the latest in designer beauty, beyond maybe the next mascara from Maybelline, so I was intrigued on my last visit to see a new display with Pixi, JK Jemma Kidd, and NP Set - all lines from top designers who have (either currently or in the past) product lines with major doors like Sephora or Bloomingdales. Why the mass vs. class switch? Looks like the one-stop-shop mentality has hit high-end cosmetics.

I decided to take a look at Pixi first, picking up some basics like foundation, blush and an eye palette. Even though the products appeared to be on sale, just those three things rang up to $83! I will try to stop harping on the sticker shock, but this is Target, right?

There are a few options for foundation in the Pixi line; I opted for Flawless Vitamin Veil ($35), a compact creamy foundation with sheer to medium coverage.  I chose the Medium shade, even though the tester looked a bit dark, but now that I have worn it for a few days, I think it is a decent match for me. Seeing as there are only three shades to choose from (light, medium and tanned), the formula would have to be fairly universal and adaptable or no one could wear it. Flawless Vitamin Veil is not a long-wearing formula, so expect to touch-up if you need the coverage to last into the evening. It is also not the best for fines lines, as it likes to settle a bit rather than float over the skin. The packaging is cute, the drawer for the sponge is a little unnecessary, but the sponge itself is decent. Overall this is a fine foundation if you like light coverage and aren’t concerned about lines and wrinkles. One positive for me: no breakouts. I am not sure that I will buy it again, especially with so many other brands and formulas to try

Pixi has a few choices for cheeks - powder, liquid, and gel. I like a light, sheer flush, so I picked Sheer Cheek Gel ($20). A tiny dab is perfect for a natural looking flush, and this gel is fairly forgiving, so you don’t have to worry about streaks and blotches if you don’t blend it in immediately. I chose Rosy, pictured here; there is also Natural, Sun Kissed and Flushed.

I debated about the rest of the collection - what to try, what shades to pick - until I spotted the Eye Beauty Kit ($28) in Minimum. This is a perfect set of colors for me, a mix of light neutrals and deep browns and charcoals. The shadows themselves are a  bit shiny for my taste, but as long as I use a light touch, blend well, and apply only to the lid, I can pull it off. I also have a love-hate relationship with the enclosed brush. The stiff liner end is okay, but the brush meant for shadows really needs to be softer. The shadows are not finely milled as a higher end brand like Chanel or Dior, so when you rake this rigid shadow brush over the surface, it’s like taking a shovel to it. Do yourself a favor and find a softer brush.

Pixi has much more to be discovered. Drop me a line if you try something and love it!

- Heather

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