I spend a lot of money on mascara. Lancôme Definicils first, and then Lancôme Hypnose layered on top of the Definicils. The bottom lashes I often only put the Definicils. I used to get complements on my lashes often. People have asked me ten times over what mascara I use. Not as much now that I am older, and I also have lost quite a bit of lashes.
There are mascara base coats, I recommend not spending your money on them, and use the double mascara method instead. This way your “base coat” is an actual mascara, and when you want a more natural look you can use it alone.
The thicker mascaras often feel wet and very gloppy (Hypnose) but using a defining mascara first (Definicils) usually eliminates that feeling.
I try to buy the mascaras when there is a gift with purchase I like. The mascara lasts me 6 months, so it’s not that terrible over time. Sometimes I keep it longer, but it’s best not to keep mascara very long. Often the GWP’s have Definicils minis, and I don’t need to buy that.
In my experience drug store brands aren’t as good, but I might try the Cover Girl jellies mentioned above. I buy drug store brand if it works well. With make-up there can be a vast difference in quality, but whenever I can buy drug store I’m happy to spend less.