I was looking for a taupe-y matte crease color at Ulta the other day and ended up walking away with a whole palette instead. It’s the It Cosmetics Luxe Anti-Aging High Performance Eye Shadow Palette w/Dual Brush ($38).
These colors are highly pigmented and easy to apply, plus they’re smooth and really last. The mirror is a good size and the brush is good for something packaged in a compact. It isn’t the best brush in the world, but works well enough and I’d rather have a brush than not.
The faux leather packaging does feel cheap, however. I don’t know why they didn’t just use a standard slimline cardboard case if they were cutting corners, but honestly I’m buying this for the product more than the case. I don’t mind that the case isn’t as nice as an Urban Decay Naked palette when it’s also so much cheaper!
The best thing about this palette? Practicality! The eyeshadows on the top row are highlight shades, the middle are lid colors and the bottom row are liner colors. They can all be used in different ways, but it’s nice that they included all the colors you need for several complete looks. There is also a good balance between shimmer and matte finishes.
Bottom line: matte and shimmers in a range of tones with a mirror and brush for under 40 bucks? This palette has everything I need in one place (and I own a LOT of eyeshadow palettes).
Here are is a basic neutral look using the palette:
And a smoky look:
As for the longevity, here it is 7 hours later, still looking vibrant:
Also pictured in both looks: Rimmel Lasting Finish Matte Lipstick by Kate Moss in 105 ($5.49).
Cosmetic Confessional 