Although drugstore brands keep getting better and better each year, they have yet to catch up to high-end makeup in terms of quality and innovation (and, of course, packaging). For those who are willing to spend a little more, department store counters have much to offer this spring. While some brands went the traditional route, releasing unabashedly sugary collections brimming with pastels and pinks, others took a more unexpected approach. Whatever the case, each of the following companies created spring launches that are well worth the extra cash. 

Daphne Groeneveld for Dior Addict Gloss (Dior)

Dior’s lip products are one of the most widely touted in the business, and this spring, they’ve created a brand new ‘volumizing’ gloss, meant to make lips look fuller without any of that painful tingling nonsense. The 24 shades are split into Shimmer, Pearl (micro-shimmer), and Pure (cream) textures, although all three promise mirror-like shine and comfortable wear. Word is the formula doesn’t disappoint. Plus, the promotional images feature supermodel of the famously pouty lips, which gets them automatic bonus points.

2. NARS Satin Lip Pencils

These are similar to the CoverGirl Gloss Balms covered in our drugstore rundown, but ten times fancier. These colors are also much more pigmented and rich, but have the same moisturizing formula that makes gloss balms so appealing. As the name implies, the 13 shades released this spring all feature the same satin finish, which eventually dries down to a long-lasting stain. And with names like Luxembourg and Hyde Park to match the pretty hues of pink, berry, and nude, who can resist?

Hourglass Ambient Lighting Powders (Hourglass)

Hourglass has revamped the idea of the ‘fresh face’ this spring with their range of six innovative powders. Each finely-milled shade is designed to mimic a different type of flattering light, from the pale yellow Diffused Light of early morning, to the champagne-tinted Luminous Light of a glowing candle. Think of these as the next generation of illuminators, which actually study the way light interacts with skin instead of attempting to shove a disco ball into a compact. 

Printemps Precieux de Chanel (Chanel)

Whatever the season, there will always be room for Chanel. This year’s offering features a bit of everything, from a beautifully coordinated quad of neutrals to a timeless trio of nail lacquers. The star item of the collection is one of their always sought-after highlighters, the Poudre Signée de Chanel. This one’s got a mix of gold and pink tones, and should work for a wide range of skintones. It’s also embossed with a ridiculously cute pattern of lipsticks, camellia blossoms, and the iconic double C’s. 

5. The Urban Decay Glinda Palette

And finally, for those of you who just can’t resist all things pink and pastel, Urban Decay’s Glinda palette is the best way to get your fix. It’s part of their Oz The Great and Powerful collection, which was launched in conjunction with Disney’s new movie. There’s a fair amount of iridescent pink and purple in here, plus a couple of neutrals to balance out the color scheme. The set also includes a mini eyeliner, plus one of those chubby lip crayons to unleash your inner artist (or five year old, depending on your mood). 

Reach Staff Reporter Sarah Wu here.