I'm a great believer in working out the cost per wear - whether it's clothes or make-up.

I would rather have 3 "posh" lipsticks I love than 10 cheapies I like. A mascara that lasts all day is better value than one that wears off by lunchtime. And a foundation that makes me feel great is much better for my self esteem than one that makes me feel okay.

I buy two nail enamels a year - both Chanel. One summer, one winter. Put it on on Friday, lasts a week. Cheaper stuff needs to be touched up every day. But I do share it with my daughter, althoug somehow I end up paying!

The only exceptions are cleaser and moisturiser. A cheap cleanser that I can slap on and use thoroughly is better than an expensive one used sparingly. Same applies to moisturiser.

..wispa