Having a solid set of makeup tools is essential. The right brush (or brush set) makes it possible to create a wide array of fabulous looks. From everyday to a glamorous night out...the tools you have on hand can make the task super simple or somewhat frustrating. When it comes to brushes, everyone has their own preferences. For me? I am all about Real Techniques. In my opinion, this is the absolute best brand for the price. The brushes are affordable, the quality is impressive, and the brushes last for ages before needing to be replaced. In fact, according to an old blog post here on Mansa Fashion. I purchased my first set of Real Techniques brushes back in 2012. Though I have added several to my collection since then...I've still been using those original brushes daily. And they still work perfectly! Despite the fact that the bristles are intact and the brushes work well, I decided to add some newer brush sets into the mix. Here is a peek at two Real Techniques brush sets and a brush holder from Urban Butterfly.

I spend a lot of time talking about the fun stuff on here. Like eyeshadow, lipstick, and lashes. When it comes to the absolute essentials (like beauty tools), I admit they receive far less attention. Maybe because they aren't as exciting. I mean, a brush is a brush...right? Not exactly. Despite how important the basics are - how integral they are to the success of any makeup look - they tend to get overlooked. Well, not this time. A while back, I was given two different brush sets. One from Tarte and one from Juicy Couture. They were a welcome addition to my existing makeup brush collection (which you can see a bit of here). Want to know how they perform? Here is everything you need to know.

Though there are quite a few makeup brushes floating around in my collection....many of them are old and in need of replacement. However, it is always hard to move on from brushes. Especially ones that have served you faithfully for years and years. One thing that makes moving on from makeup brushes a little bit easier? New brush sets. A couple have entered my life over the last little while but the first one comes from Paris Hilton Cosmetics. I received this set for my birthday and have been using it non-stop since. Ready to take a peek inside the brush collection? Here goes....

Like so many beauty bloggers, I am a big fan of Sam and Nic from Pixiwoo. I was so excited when Sam originally released her Real Techniques makeup brush line! Unfortunately, the brushes aren't available where I live. So, when I visited London, I hit up every Boots I could. I was able to find the Base Core Collection and Eyes Starter Set. Sadly, the amazing stippling brush I keep hearing so much about was sold out every place I went. But - I am so excited to finally have my hands on these brushes.