In another life, I'd be a fabulous French femme who strolled the streets of Paris in simple but chic outfits. An Isabel Marant dress here, a sequined Vanessa Bruno tote there, and a Paul & Joe coat to top it all off — so French, so chic. Unfortunately, not only am I not even vaguely French, I also can't afford the steep prices of those clothes.

What I can splurge on, however, feels just as French without making such a hard hit on my pocketbook. Paul & Joe Beauté has the cutest limited-edition Starlet palette ($38). It's a trio of super-versatile shadows: a slightly sparkly light mauve, a smoky dark amethyst, and a matte deep purple. So whether I want to do a nonchalant, "I'm shopping in the Marais" nearly-nude eye look or a sexier, "It's 2 a.m. and we've just left Nouveau Casino" eyeliner-heavy one, this floral compact makes me feel like a gallic gal — even if my morning croissant isn't quite authentic.