I Have My Mom to Thank for This Expensive Beauty Addiction

Growing up in a single parent household, beauty advice wasn’t something my sisters and I got at a measured, consistent pace. Instead, it was either on-the-fly or in observation; especially when it came to discovering the best perfumes. In fact, it’s probably the one thing I’ve adopted from my mother’s otherwise no-frills regimen.

Mornings in our house consisted of my mother catering to us as opposed to the other way around. We’d stand in line, waiting to have our hair pulled back into the same ponytail and matching bang, along with matching outfits, always clean shoes and money for lunch. Once we were all set, she’d barely have enough time to make herself presentable, except for a spritz of perfume before running out the door. It was a non-negotiable and a reminder that all of us deserve a little luxury in our lives. Plus, smelling good is never a bad thing.

My only caveat with having such a simple, yet effective beauty addiction is that it has never been good for my bank account. So much so, that I’ve had to let up on the pretty, expensive bottles I love so much (like the classic Chanel No. 5) and rotate more affordable (but just as fragrant) options in. Here’s what I’m currently wearing on any given day: