THE LUCKY BUY: CNY EDITION SKINCARE & MAKEUP

Novel packaging and auspicious shades make these true collectibles.

Because their novel, limited edition packaging – from Nars’ matte red cases to YSL Beaute’s gilded blue boxes – are the stuff of beauty junkie collectibles and could come in handy when you have to make small talk on your visiting rounds (“Have you seen...”). And because they’re like a grooming survival kit for this usually hectic festive period – from upsized editions of radiance-boosting, line-obscuring treatments (Lancome’s Advanced Genifique Serum in an unexpected crimson bottle) to plenty of lippies (Nars’ Powermatte Lip Pigment, Lancome’s L’Absolu Rouge) in versatile shades of – what else – auspicious red.

From top: Lancome Absolue Cushion, $140, Advanced Genifique Serum, $260, and L’Absolu Rouge Lipstick, $49. Nars Aqua Glow Cushion Compact, $72, and Powermatte Lip Pigment, $40.YSL Beaute Touche Eclat Le Cushion, $92