Sephora 2016 Birthday Gift: Marc Jacobs

This year, Sephora offers two different options for your birthday. Signing up for their Beauty Insider program is free and their birthday gifts are one of the perks each year. The two available this year are a Fresh skincare duo and this Marc Jacobs duo. I chose the Marc one, because A) I already have lots of skincare items I am trying right now and I have already tried one of the items in the duo and B) I have yet to try anything from Marc's line and both items have pretty good reviews.

The set comes with deluxe samples of the Blacquer Highliner Gel eyeliner and a Kiss Kiss Bang Bang Le Marc Lip Creme lipstick. Here are my thoughts and swatches!

The eyeliner: It is so smooth and creamy. I actually think it is smoother than the Urban Decay 24/7 eyeliners. It is pretty opaque on first swipe, but I did not find it to be as opaque as Urban Decay's Perversion liner. I noticed little smudging and it does not come off easily. I've kind of gotten away from black eyeliner. I just happen to prefer taupes, but this is great for a smoky eye or a night out. It is retractable, which is an added bonus.

The lipstick: It goes on opaque in one coat. I normally put on  a lip balm before lipstick and I forgot when I did the swatch. And honestly? I did not even notice the difference. That is a rare occasion! This is a great creamy formula. No sinking into fine lines and my lips stay hydrated. And the color is gorgeous. I can see why they chose this one for the set.

Verdict: I would definitely buy both products in full-sized versions, but personally would pick a different color of the eyeliner.

Hitting it out of the ballpark as usual, Sephora! And Marc Jacobs continues to not let me down. Fangirl for life.