Have you checked out the beauty department at your local Target recently? I spent some quality time there this weekend and I was amazed. It’s starting to remind me of a niche-y beauty boutique -- something along the lines of C.O. Bigelow or Space N.K. I spied a lot of secondary lines from big name beauty labels, and the beauty accessories to match. I’m seriously loving it.
Add in a couple of smart spring sweater finds, and you’ve got a good look at what I’m shopping for right now. Here’s a peek inside my online shopping cart this week…
1. Orla Kiely Garden Beauty Organizer, $16.99
The Orla Kiely line of beauty bags and organizers at Target is spectacular. I spent a good 20 minutes opening and inspecting each of the different types of bags, which range from perfect little purse-sized cosmetics pouches to serious organization for multi-day travel. I want the entire line. But, this handy beauty organizer is where I will start. It’s perfect for organizing your makeup supplies and tools for a trip, plus the inside and outside are both water-resistant and wipe-cleanable.
This multicolored bird print, from the Garden Collection, is my favorite design. But, the entire range of beauty bags is available in three different color coordinated (but not matchy-matchy) collections. There are so many options it’s a little overwhelming. In a good way.
2. Zara Long Sleeve Striped Top, $69.90
I wish the photos did this top justice. I spotted this fun zip-back blouse on my monthly jaunt through the San Francisco Zara store. It’s an eye-catcher in person. The navy blue and white striped blouse is constructed from a structured (i.e., not stretchy) poly cotton blend. The back zipper provides the means to get in and out. The cropped hem, slightly bell sleeves, and structured construction make this top vibe high fashion in person. Wear it layered over a longer tank for a relaxed look, or pair with high-waist trousers for a just off the runway look.
3. Zara Micro-Structured Sweater, $59.90
Another great find from my Zara expedition, this funnel neck sweater is modern minimalism at work. It’s constructed from a stretchy black and white viscose/ poly blend knit that manages to stand rigid at the collar despite its super stretchy feel. The way the black knit lies on top of the white knit layer makes for a kind of optical effect – click through and zoom in to see what I’m talking about. I’d pair it with cropped black trousers for a casual workday look.
4. Dead Sea Essentials by Ahava Body Spa Towelettes, $6.99
First of all, love that up market spa line Ahava is making an affordable line for Target. That’s just fabulous. Despite what the online headline says, these towelettes are not a standard facial wipe. They are actually a “body spa towelette” (as explained in the fine print on the page, or on the packaging in person). I think these will be great for keeping in your purse during the hottest stretch of summer. You can use these hydrating hibiscus wipes to freshen up anytime you are feeling a little sticky. Such a smart idea.
5. Laneige Water Sleeping Mask, $23.00
Hat tip to Natalie at Coquette for turning me on to this latest Target score. Any beauty fiend worth her Sephora VIB Rouge card knows that Korean skincare lines are the hottest trend in US beauty right now. Shops everywhere are rushing to import the best known Korean brands, just to watch them be snapped up by eager American beauty fans. Laneige for Target is just the latest entry into this not-yet-too-crowded market.
Korean skincare line Laneige is now being sold in Target stores and on Target.com. Given that Laneige is owned by same company as the super expensive, super luxe AmorePacific line, I’m dying to try it. Judging by the reviews and online chatter, their Water Sleeping Mask seems to be the stand out product from the line. I went to two different stores to try and find it, and it was sold out in both. Luckily it’s still available online.
