Cosmetic Comeback: Powder to the People

By Alix Strauss

For a generation or two, old-fashioned powder compacts have seemed somewhat, well, old-fashioned. But now that ladylike style rules the runways, pressed powder is back in vogue, with hipsters searching flea markets for vintage compacts and cosmetic companies giving makeovers to classic powder products. La Prairie has added cellular antiaging treatments, Kanebo includes silk, and retro Paul & Joe Face Powder contains radiance-boosting pearls. "Pressed powder is a great eraser for any mistake," says makeup artist Trish McEvoy of her Even Skin compact. Stila offers choice with its powder duo--one side is matte, the other shimmery--while Lola's vibrant red compact and girly puff send you back to your school days. Old-fashioned never looked so fresh. --By Alix Strauss