Make Up Storage Solutions--Part 2

by Valerie Gladstone — September 26, 2007

There are makeup storage boxes available that have plenty of room for everything from eye shadow to tools such as eyebrow tweezers. These containers resemble fishing tackle boxes and have compartments to separate various products and tools. They typically have more than one tier, and the compartments slide open so that items in the bottom of the box can be easily reached. These boxes are not only great tools of organization; their hard outer shells protect the contents and lockout damaging moisture. Another plus is the fact that these types of cosmetic cases are convenient to take on vacations and overnight excursions. They're available in a variety of colors and designs.

Fishing tackle boxes make great alternatives. They come in a variety of sizes and have numerous options and excellent durability. Models can include sliding drawers, removable drawers and swing-back trays. Most trays and drawers come with the added feature of adjustable dividers, which are great pluses when organizing an abundance of makeup products. Some fishing tackle boxes are even available with carrying cases that have shoulder straps. Check them out at www.alltackle.com

Kitchen utensil organizers can work too. They can be placed in the drawer of a desk or a dresser, and cosmetics can be separated for ease of use. Store lipsticks with lip liners and conditioners. Store eye shadow in a compartment by itself. Store eyeliner in a compartment with mascara. Store pressed powder in a compartment with cover-up stick and foundation. Blush can be can be stored in a compartment by itself. Keep makeup brushes in another compartment where they are easily accessible.

You could also buy an assortment of clear plastic containers, figuring out ahead of time what your needs are, and keep them in a drawer in your bedroom. I use the same cosmetics day after day, only adding on on special occasions. So I think I'll put those I regularly use (tinted moisture, concealer and kohl eye pencil) in a small plastic bag by themselves, which I can take into the bedroom in the morning.

Where to Buy:

• West Elm has a variety of canvas storage boxes $20-$60 at www.westelm.com
• Pottery Barn Teen (no reason why teens are the only ones who can have this) $79 at www.pbteen.com
• Target has a Cosmetic Organizer $20 at www.target.com