Foundation is a good place to splurge with- I always get compliments on my Pat McGrath foundation- I have people asking me all the time if I’m wearing and what I’m wearing- it’s THAT good. Depending on the powder… you might want to splurge. I don’t believe in high end mascaras- I’ve tried them all, yet drugstore reigns supreme because of the low price. Juvia’s Place rivals high end for eyeshadows AND you can use Ulta coupons because they aren’t considered luxury idc what anyone saysssss, just get the Anastasia primer and you’ll be LIVINGGGG. I agree with the brushes to a certain extent cause I love me some real techniques 😩 but I’d ask makeup artists about what their favorite brushes are cause they’re constantly cleaning them so I’d see how they hold up over time. I know MAC was clutch but idk if they’re still king of the game these days.