Yay on the swatches!
I've been using drugstore foundations up until recently..I just decided that I wanted better quality products but still can't afford most high end brands that would carry the light shades that I need.
I just got a bareMinerals starter kit (with foundation in the lightest shade) and I'm loving it so far. my skin handles it well and I don't even look like I'm wearing foundation. No ashy/orangey/muddy ugliness anymore

Most foundations are too orange for me. But with the bareMinerals one I feel comfortable and don't constantly worry about weird discolorations on my face. It's not easy being so fair! I try to accept and cherish it, though, whenever I can. For example by wearing vampy colors... F*** you people who stare at me like I'm a vampire.. I definitely prefer being the odd one out over fake tanning or burning my skin.