We are acutely aware of how difficult contouring is for any non-Kardashian/Jenner. Not only do most of us lack the skills, but we also do not have a 24/7 glam squad on call or the time for a 20-step contouring ritual. But if 2005 Kim Kardashian didn’t let that stop her from eventually achieving the role of kontour kween, neither should you.
In all seriousness, contouring only gets easier with practice. So if you’re a rookie, chances are you struggle quite a bit with your blenders every morning before work. Enter: the contour kit. While some pro-level kits might confuse newbies, a contour kit with clear instructions and versatile products can make contouring a piece of cake.
While those gorgeous trendy contour kits are tempting, choose options with basic pigments and highlighters. Long-stay contour sets with essential matte and shimmering palettes should be enough for a beginner to work with. Here are some of the most versatile and thrifty contouring kits for rookie contour enthusiasts.
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Contour Kits for Rookies
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Kevyn Aucoin
The Sculpting Contour Powder, $44 at Sephora
The perfect beginner's contour, this powder is great for both an understated matte contour or a sheer bronzing. It is very easy to sculpt and dramatically enhance your features without going OTT.
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Too Faced
Cocoa Contour Chiseled to Perfection, $42 at Sephora
The only contour set you need if you're nervous about going big with the kabuki brush. This Too Faced set has two shades for sculpting and a matte highlighter. You can choose to highlight and define your features separately or blend some of the shades together to create a next-level glow.
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Smashbox
Step-By-Step Contour Kit, $35 at Ulta Beauty
This contour set doubles as a basic powder and shadow set even when you're not ready to invest in the time it takes to perfect your contour. It's amazingly basic yet versatile for daily contouring, helping your features pop and giving you perfectly pigmented cheeks.
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Kat Von D
Shade + Light Face Contour Refillable Palette, $49 at Sephora
You should own this kit even if you don't plan on contouring. One of the most efficient pigment kits, it helps you wake up a sallow complexion and is great for selfie makeup because it catches light in the most irresistible way.
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NYX Professional Makeup
Wonder Stick, $11.99 at Ulta Beauty
This contour stick is handy for last-minute definition and also has a creamy, blendable formula. If you're looking for understated definition and warmth in a tiny package, this contour kit is for you.
