Truffle Clarity Pouch

I've been making an effort lately to streamline my bags. Although I adore my Michael Kors Hamiltons, smaller bags like my Balenciaga City and Twiggy have been back in heavy rotation as of late. And if I'm streamlining my bags, it's time to streamline my makeup bags.

Enter the Truffle Clarity Pouch.

TSA-Approved for frequent fliers, this is an incredibly well-made (and stylish) clear pouch.

Unlike many other clear pouches, you can really see the quality here. The stitching is heavy and materials substantial in your hand. These come in two sizes; this is the smaller of the two. There are several other styles on the site (onetruffle.com) which I keep eyeing and can't wait to try eventually.

As I mentioned, this is the smaller of the two and passes TSA requirements. I showed you what it looked like filled above, but here's what was actually inside:

That's quite a bit, right? That's plenty to bring with you on a daily basis, and can easily handle all of your liquids when traveling. I've had my Truffle Clarity Pouch for about a week and have purposely been using it very rigorously so I could speak to durability. The clear vinyl looks perfect, and you'd swear that nobody had used it.

Bottom line: these are a bit pricey for a makeup bag ($32 for this and up), but they're just wonderful. I keep eyeing the Privacy Clutch because it's oh-so-chic.

Clinique Pink With a Purpose 2013

One of my favorite things about Breast Cancer Awareness Month annually is the plethora of limited edition beauty products that flood the market.  They're proof that it's possible to do good while looking good.

Clinique does a "Pink with a Purpose" set annually.  This year's set features an Almost Lipstick in Pink Ribbon Honey and a Pink Ribbon makeup bag.

According to the box, $3 of this LE kit between September 15- January 31, 2014 will be donated to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation (www.bcrfcure.org). 

A quick note on the makeup bag:  It measures out at approximately 6" x 4" and is coated fabric.

The Almost Lipstick in Pink Ribbon Honey has slightly different packaging than the permanent line. Note the pink ribbon on the outside of the tube, and the pink band where the lid meets the body.

Here's a closer look at the color:

It's a lovely blue-pink.  Like the other Almost Lipsticks, it's far lighter on the lips and swatched than in the stick.

Outside, in indirect light:

On my pigmented lips:

Inside, with flash:

On my lips, with flash:

And on my lips, inside without flash:

Bottom Line: This is a no-brainer.  It's a beautiful kit, and at the same price as Almost Lipstick alone ($15), and also benefiting a great cause?  Go get it for yourself, and one for your mothers, sisters, and friends.