As a young (OK, young-ish) American, I'm continually fascinated by the endless options life presents: Tofu or steak? Miniskirts or cargos? Flip-flops or platforms? While this type of freedom isn't exactly what our forefathers had intended, I try not to take the entitlement lightly--after all, shifting identities between laid-back granola girl and sexy stiletto-wearing siren is my birthright. But my pseudo-patriotism is regularly put to the test at the cosmetics counter. Regressing into a wide-eyed adolescent, I become both transfixed and overwhelmed by the kaleidoscope of colors and cute packages. After trying countless shadows, glosses, glitters, and fragrances, I usually leave the store looking like a streetwalker, smelling like an air-freshener, and wondering if a little less freedom might be a good thing.

Fortunately, Clarins Colorful Horizons Eye Colour Palette ($32.50; nordstrom.com) has enabled me to explore a whole new frontier--the welcome middle ground between freedom of choice and sweet simplicity. The sleek limited-edition compact contains a range of earthy and sophisticated hues that can be applied quickly during the morning rush or experimented with to unfold a world of possibilities. The dual brush comes with a flat and a pointed sponge tip that can be used to apply the darkest shades as eyeliner; the luminous brown is ideal for a natural look, while the charcoal creates a more dramatic effect. Applying the khaki shade to the eyelid and lower lashes creates a chic smoldering eye, the gold adds a touch of light on the inner corners, the aqua looks dreamy on the outer lid, and the coral is perfect for highlighting the brow bone. Best of all, the kit's perfectly coordinated hues will take me through a season of knits and tweeds without having to think too profoundly about the meaning of all my options. --Genevieve Walshe