^{This post is sponsored by essence and Her Campus Media. All opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Diary of a Debutante possible!}

One of my favorite things about the back-to-school season is that it’s a new opportunity to re-invent yourself. Whether it’s a new hairstyle or a revamped wardrobe, fall is the time for new beginnings. One of the simplest ways to feel like a whole new you is to spice up your makeup routine. Even the most modest tweaks (a change in your go-to lip color or a new mascara) can make you feel ten times better. Kyle and I just moved to a new city— a transition that involved large moving expenses, utility deposits, and furniture purchases. Needless to say, I’m feeling pretty frugal right now. So, after embarking on a huge affordable makeup haul, I wanted to talk about a fall makeup trend that I’m currently loving and share a few of my favorite affordable products for the season. 

Trend to Try: Metallic Lipstick

In the past, I’ve always stuck with traditional lip colors, usually in a matte formula. I’ve always wanted to try some edgier colors and trends, but I just assumed I couldn’t pull them off. I came across essence’s new Metal Shock Lipstick collection, and I was so intrigued. Nothing shocks your world more than a rainbow of metallic lipsticks. They’re $4.99 each, and I couldn’t settle for anything less than the full collection. Check out the metallic lipstick swatches below for all eight shades! You’ll notice that each shade provides a subtle metal effect for your lips that shines (literally) under light. If you’re looking for a fun fall makeup trend to try, this is it!

I’ll admit, I have this thing with pink. It’s no surprise that my favorite shade is a metallic hot pink called 02- Guns ‘N Rose. 04-Pink Metallica is a close second, though! See below for the difference in color straight on versus from the side, when the metallic effect is more visible. This is the perfect shade to compliment a bright outfit or to add a unique pop of color to a night out with your girlfriends. 

Which one of the metallic lipstick swatches is your favorite? Are you bold enough to try the blue, green, or yellow shades? I’m still working my way up to the edgier colors, but I’m having a ton of fun in the process! If you’re a little more reserved (like me), try one of the lighter shades first. The pink shades have a spunky metal effect to them, but they won’t be outside of your comfort zone.

Fall Makeup Must-Have: Volume Stylist Mascara

I’m a piranha for awesome drugstore mascaras. Why pay $30+ for a designer brand when you can find incredible products for under $5 at Target?! I’ve been a longtime fan of essence’s mascaras, so I was really excited to see them come out with their new Volume Stylist Mascara line. The Lash Extension Mascara (purple) has lengthening fibers in it to give you fuller longer lashes, and the Curl & Hold Mascara (pink) has micro-styling waxes that provide lots of volume and Both formulas last up to 18 hours.

For more dramatic lashes, I usually enhance the Curl & Hold Mascara with an eyelash curler or I apply the Lash Extension Mascara to fake lashes. For every day wear, I usually just grab whichever tube is closer, since they’re both equally perfect for every day wear. Neither formula is clumpy, and they both actually last for an entire day. 

Even with the most modest tweaks to my makeup regimen, I’m feeling like a new woman. I mean, seriously– how fun is this hot pink lipstick? I’ve come to realize that confidence is the key to just about everything in life. If you feel good, you’ll look good. It’s that simple. Don’t be afraid to shake up your every day makeup routine and try some new things this fall. I mean, I never thought I’d be playing around with metallic lipstick swatches, but it happened. And I love it. 

I know the back-to-school season can get expensive, so be sure to check out a handful of my other favorite drugstore makeup products from essence, too! All of their products are affordable and cruelty-free. Happy shopping!