Pumps & Pleats: MAC is whack

Story and photo by Michèle De Meglio

Fashion bloggers live and breathe for MAC cosmetics, which begs the question, “Why?”

The beauty market is oversaturated with plumpers and polishes so it seems odd that a single makeup line would inspire such devotion. Pumps & Pleats headed to the tiny MAC store on Montague Street in Brooklyn Heights to discover what all the fuss is about.

The shop is fresh, pristine and loaded with products, but the sales people can be a bit snobbish. Sadly, that’s often the case in many posh — or wannabe posh — beauty boutiques.

Trying to get past the snooty staff, Pumps & Pleats checked out the goods.

Following the hottest cosmetics trend, MAC has a line of mineral makeup. The products are sold separately so by the time you get done purchasing a $32 foundation, $21 blush, $28 powder and other everyday essentials, you’ll be left with an empty wallet.

If you’re really interested in trying the mineral madness for yourself, check out www.bareescentuals.com, which sells a full mineral makeup starter kit for $60.

MAC fares better with its abundant collection of eye shadows in every color of the rainbow. The bright hues are fun but they’re completely impractical for a day at the office. Do you really want to spend $14.50 on a lime green or periwinkle shade that you’ll wear on the dance floor once in a blue moon? You’re better off buying a cheap Wet ‘n Wild knockoff at your nearest drug store.

Seriously, MAC ain’t all that.

MAC [152 Montague St. between Henry and Clinton streets in Brooklyn Heights, (718) 596-1994].

Michèle De Meglio is a native Brooklynite addicted to all things chic. Check out Pumps & Pleats each week for more adventures as she scours the borough for fab duds and accessories.