Mascara:  the most quintessential item in many women’s makeup collections is the one that tends to be consumed at a pace comparable to an oil change at a NASCAR rally.  Whether you prefer a full, flirty fringe or one that subtly hints at the diva within, mascara can dramatically change your look with a single (or several) swipe.  Keep your lashes – and wallet – full with these Vogue City favorites.

Maybelline Great Lash mascara in Black, $4.99 at Duane Reade A secret weapon of the world’s most renowned makeup artists, the eponymous pink-and-green wonder tube has been prevalent in the beauty industry since its debut in the ‘70s.  Its compact brush is pliable and helpful in reaching ultrafine lashes without clumping.  Steer clear of its waterproof counterpart (and most waterproof mascaras in general), which can cause lashes to dry out and – eek – snap at the base (trust us when we say that regrowth is a painful, tenuous process).  A tube typically lasts between two and three months; for under $5, we’ll gladly take it.

CoverGirl Lash Blast mascara in Black Brown, $8.49 at Walgreen’s CoverGirl boosts its biggest brush with its newest lash contender.  Lash Blast promises a traffic-stopping stare with its patented brush and volume-boosting formula.  The brush, akin to a miniature plastic hair brush, separates, coats and sets lashes into eye batting goodness.  We recommend two coats – three if you’re daring – and extra drying time before causing an ocular commotion.  

Rimmel London Eye Magnifier mascara in Extreme Black, $7.29 at Ulta We give Kate Moss’s genetics credit for her success as an international supermodel, and give Rimmel’s latest lash superhero credit for her preternaturally wide-eyed look.  The Eye Magnifier plastic wand lifts lashes up, up and away, creating a virtual eye lift for even the sleepiest doe-eyed ladies; the rich formula pigments darken lashes to a state of noir, causing irises to pop.  Try a second coat feathered along the tips for a total KO.

-Karyn Polewaczyk

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