Question:
I've just been offered a free mascara from a high-end store that carries pretty much any designer brand - it's a gift. I can only choose one.
I've no idea what to select, as I've been using a drug-store brand for years.
Please tell me what you love and what I should consider asking for. I'd like to try something new and fantastic. My lashes are relatively long and curly, but I'd love something really nice.
Thanks!

Answer:
The new Chanel Inimitable one is fabulous!!!! Glossy curling volumizing too. The brush is rubber and gets right to the roots of your lashes too.
YSL and Lancome also do amazing mascaras.

Answer:
Dior Ultimeyes is my favourite, Maximeyes is great, too.

Answer:
Thanks, Donna and Tigrushka for the suggestions! I'll look at all of these, and am sure to find a winner. I cannot tell you how excited I am about this new mascara thing....
Since we're on the subject of mascara - I usually wear black or brown/black mascara. But I wonder if anyone makes a good quality mascara in a subtle, dark eggplant or plum shade? Nothing that screams purple or violet, but rather is just a soft deep shade that has a touch of color. These shades would be flattering to my skin and eye tones, so I would love to know if anything's available!

Answer:
Ultimeyes at least used to have a plum/aubergene shade, it might be discontinued, though.

Answer:
How about Lash queen by Helena Rubinstein?
That is a wonderfull mascara!

Answer:
Originally Posted by tigrushka Ultimeyes at least used to have a plum/aubergene shade, it might be discontinued, though. Thanks! I'll see if they still carry it. I'd like something as subtle as brown, but just in a different plummy tone; it's been rather hard to find without the shade being way too vibrant.

Answer:
YSL does and the new Chanel has a violet which is black based.

Answer:
Originally Posted by donna255 YSL does and the new Chanel has a violet which is black based.
Donna, so sorry I missed this before. Thanks for the suggestions!