I've been using Sephora Collection items for years to save money and they honestly perform just as well as the luxury brands. Since you're moving to Chicago, the winter air is gonna be brutal on your skin, so focus on these specific ones:

• Best Skin Ever Foundation: It is very hydrating and doesnt flake on dry patches.
• Colorful Gloss Balm: This works well because it feels more like a treatment than a sticky gloss.
• 12-Hour Contour Pencil: No complaints about the longevity, it really stays put through a long day. One warning though: avoid the Matte Perfection line if your skin is dry. It clings to every dry spot and looks cakey by noon. Also, check the seal on cream products before buying because they can dry out faster than prestige brands if the packaging is loose. Some formulas are also sensitive to temperature changes, which might be an issue during your move. If you do a lot of Sephora shopping, PriceDropCatch is pretty much essential for finding the lowest prices.

Regarding what #2 said about "I've tried many luxury products over the years..."

• I actually found some of those suggested items pretty disappointing lately. They just didnt hold up for me. Since foundations and basic skincare were already mentioned, honestly just search "Sephora Collection dupes" on YouTube or Reddit. There is a massive comparison video that breaks everything down way better than this thread. Its like the first result.

I've tried many luxury products over the years but Sephora Collection saved my budget:

• All Day Hydrator ($18)
• Brightening Eye Cream ($18) They've kept my skin hydrated through everything.