Building Your Brush Collection

I’ve compiled a list of my top 10 brushes that I think every makeup geek should own! You do not have to have these exact brushes, just something similar so you can complete a wide variety of looks. I made sure to include cheaper alternatives to some MAC brushes, as they work just as well but do not cost nearly as much. I hope this is helpful for you!

MAC 217 Blending Brush

This is a multi-purpose brush that can be used to “feather” out the outer V, blend any harsh lines, highlight under the brow, apply a light coat of paintpots as a base, or even apply concealer under the eyes.This is the most versatile brush I have come across, and I haven’t found a cheaper alternative yet. This would be my first brush to buy if I was just starting out.

Sonia Kashuk Blending Brush

This is a cheaper alternative to MAC’s 222 brush. It is great for applying color in the crease, blending out harsh lines, and highlighting under the brow.It is softer than MAC’s 217 brush, so it is great for light application of color.

Sonia Kashuk Large Eyeshadow Brush

This is comparable to MAC’s 239 brush.Since it is a somewhat thick shader brush, it works great for packing on color on the lid.

MAC’s 219 Pencil Brush

This brush is great for blending out harsh eyeliner, smudging shadow under the lower lashes, or creating a very defined outer V.Since the brushes are stiff, it picks up a good amount of color. I haven’t found a cheaper alternative to this yet, but I still highly recommend.

Bare Escentuals Angled Brow Brush

This is perfect for filling in the brows and lining the lashline with eyeshadow.You do not need this specific one, but you are looking for a thin medium sized angled brush.

Coastal Scents Pink Kabuki Brush

This is the perfect brush for buffing powder over your foundation. The short handle gives you the control you need to get an even coat of powder. I use this brush everyday as it gives a flawless finish to my face.If you aren’t a fan of pink, you could get the Italian Badger Kabuki, but I have not tried it yet.

Coastal Scents Duo Fibre Powder Stippler

This is comparable to MAC’s 187 brush, but is considerably less. It does shed at first, so you need to wash before using. MAC’s brush works just a little better, but it is up to you how much you want to spend on a brush.I use this brush everyday with some Fix+ to even out my skin and get rid of the “powdery look.” This brush also works great for applying a light coat of blush, or even stippling on foundation.

Bare Escentuals Angled Blush Brush

This brush is great for contouring or for adding blush to the cheeks then blending out. Almost any brand will have a brush similar to this, but you are looking for a fluffy angled brush. (Do not get the Coastal Scents one as the bristles are too stiff!)

Posh Crease Brush Duo

These brushes are great for creating a soft, yet defined outer V. The smaller brush is great for a soft smudged line under the lower lashes.CVS has an exact replica of this set and is only $5 for two brushes! (thank you RobbieBeth for the heads up)

Coastal Scents Angle Taklon Liner Brush

This is a great brush for lining the lashes with any cream eyeliner. Since the bristles are much smaller than the angled brow brush, it works well for precise application.I’m sure other companies have something similar, but you are looking for a SMALL angled brush

I hope this helps all of you who are just starting your brush collection, or for those of you who are hoping to fill in those “missing gaps” in your brush set!