A beauty brand created by a former advisor to the royal family is taking the global cosmetics market by storm, with its signature 'holy grail' product selling more than 150,000 units worldwide.
The Cult of the Glow Drop
Australian label Basics by B, founded by celebrity makeup artist Bonnie Gillies, has shaken up the industry with its must-have Liquid Glow Drops and Body Glow. The brand's success is built on a unique proposition: multi-use, lightweight formulas that deliver a radiant, non-greasy finish. Currently, a 25 per cent off sale is running on these star products, though stocks are moving fast.
The Liquid Glow Drops, which have achieved cult status, come in three versatile shades: Marbella (glowy pink), Tulum (champagne), and Miami (warm bronze). Praised by makeup artists, the buildable formula can be worn alone on cheeks and eyelids or mixed into foundation for an all-over glow. It boasts a near-perfect customer rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from hundreds of reviews.
From Accidental Hit to Award-Winning Business
Bonnie Gillies, who also shares beauty tips with over 110,000 followers on Instagram as Oz Beauty Expert, started the brand in 2019 with a single product. She identified a gap in the market five years ago, creating what she believes were the world's first pink liquid glow drops. "We made Marbella Liquid Glow Drops before anyone else was doing a pink shade," Bonnie told the Daily Mail. "It literally changed my business."
Interestingly, the brand's Body Glow was an accidental bestseller. Initially shelved, the luxurious body lotion was launched in summer 2023 and has since seen over 75,000 bottles purchased. Shoppers love its non-greasy, hydrating formula that provides a luminous sheen without glitter or significant transfer onto clothing.
From its humble one-product beginning, Basics by B is now an award-winning, multi-seven-figure business stocked online and with Australian retailer Adore Beauty. The brand is poised for expansion into US and UK physical retail soon. Bonnie credits the success to her approach of educating consumers on how to use transformative products, not just selling them.
What's Next for the Brand?
When asked to choose a favourite from her range, Bonnie highlights the Alter Ego Concealer, describing it as "the best concealer you will ever try." However, the most anticipated launch is a foundation range, a project she admits has taken years due to her perfectionism and the complexity of creating multiple types and shades.
Reflecting on the brand's journey from a single palette to over 60 vegan and cruelty-free products, Bonnie said, "I stand in my warehouse and think 'wow, I'm just a girl from Newcastle in the big smoke... and I did all this?!'" With a rapidly growing international following, the glow from Basics by B shows no sign of fading.
