Fashion

13 Pretty Cosmetic Compacts That Could Double As Jewelry

When the term "powder compact" is uttered in a sentence, one may as well be copping to démodé, grandma-inspired sartorial inclinations. However, 2014 is resurrecting the cosmetic staples in a decidedly modern fashion. Not only are compacts housing makeup essentials from full face palettes to the finest milled illuminating powders, they also come in an array of opulent forms. Golden, crystal-encrusted cases serve to evoke modernized '50s glamour; geometric silver compacts serve to satisfy avant-garde style; and patterned cases combine the best of both worlds. So when you're on the holiday party circuit this season, snap up one of these embellished compacts; you may even be inspired to leave the statement jewelry at home.

by Tyler Atwood

Estee Lauder Limited Edition Sapphire Sparklers Powder Compact

With a bejeweled compact this decadently designed, who needs a necklace?

Estee Lauder Limited Edition Sapphire Sparklers Powder Compact, $250, Bergdorf Goodman

AERIN Beauty Weekend Palette

Call this palette the ultimate two-in-one deal: AERIN’s Beauty Weekend Palette features a range of soft, universally flattering shades for eyes, lips, and cheeks, and its gorgeous, textured golden compact is worthy of public makeup application.

AERIN Beauty Weekend Palette, $70, Bergdorf Goodman

Bésame Cosmetics Brightening Violet Powder

Not since the 1940s has a powder compact looked so alluring. If you’re not enthralled yet, consider the illuminating power of powder, and you may be swayed.

Bésame Cosmetics Brightening Violet Powder, $22, Sephora

Tory Burch Bronzer & Blush in Divine

With its preppy packaging and luxe golden detailing, this Tory Burch Bronzer & Blush is simply made to be whipped out of a straw tote in Palm Beach come spring.

Tory Burch Bronzer & Blush in Divine, $48, Tory Burch

Gucci Golden Glow Bronzer

Old Hollywood allure comes to life in Gucci’s Golden Glow Bronzer, its compact designed to make as much a statement as one of the brand’s iconic bags.

Gucci Golden Glow Bronzer, $59, Gucci

Burberry Splash Eye Palette Water Resistent Beachwear

If a Burberry scarf (or dress, or top) isn’t in your price range, reach for one of the brand’s equally exquisite compacts. Burberry’s signature plaid pattern decorates each, and at under $50 a pop, it’s a luxury you can afford.

Burberry Splash Eye Palette Water Resistent Beachwear, $47, Saks Fifth Avenue

Jane Iredale Electric Purepressed Refillable Compact

When you’re flitting between cocktail hours and merry shindigs this holiday season, keep your makeup touch-ups elegant with Jane Iredale’s Electric Purepressed Refillable Compact. Its rich jewel-toned case is more subtle than silver or gold, but provides an equally arresting pop of color to your purse.

Jane Iredale Electric Purepressed Refillable Compact, $20, Janeiredale

Clé de Peau Beauté 'La Boheme' Luminizing Face Enhancer

If blinding bling is your thing, look no further than Clé de Peau’s Beauté ‘La Boheme’ Luminizing Face Enhancer. The compact itself features a multifaceted gem-like cover, while the powder inside will keep your complexion glowing like the finest Cartier gem.

Clé de Peau Beauté ‘La Boheme’ Luminizing Face Enhancer, $95, Nordstrom

Dior Diorskin Nude Shimmer Instant Illuminating Powder & Kabuki Brush

Simple, streamlined, and utterly timeless, Dior’s Diorskin Nude Shimmer Instant Illuminating Powder case is aesthetically unparalleled; the luminizing powder inside makes it indispensable.

Dior Diorskin Nude Shimmer Instant Illuminating Powder & Kabuki Brush, $56, nordstrom

Rouge G de Guerlain 820 Rouge Parade Jewel Lipstick Compact

Though not the average compact, Rouge G de Guerlain’s 820 Rouge Parade Jewel Lipstick Compact is a glossy, sultry crimson which houses an equally bewitching lipstick.

Rouge G de Guerlain 820 Rouge Parade Jewel Lipstick Compact, $54, Nordstrom

MAC Keepsakes In Beige Eyes

A cross between a cameo locket and a heavy metal-inspired accent, this MAC Keepsake Palette In Beige Eyes makes a statement in the hand and on the eye.

MAC Keepsakes In Beige Eyes, $39, MAC Cosmetics

Kjaer Weis Cream Blush in Blossoming

Call it an architectural wonder: Kjaer Weis’s Cream Blush in Blossoming features the most streamlined silver encasement which slides open to reveal complexion-flattering cream blush

Kjaer Weis Cream Blush in Blossoming, $56, Net-A-Porter

Too Faced Milk Chocolate Soleil Light/Medium Matte Bronzer

This compact not only evokes the appearance of a golden chocolate coin, it has enviable radiance-bestowing capabilities.

Too Faced Milk Chocolate Soleil Light/Medium Matte Bronzer, $34, Sephora

113