Urban Decay started the Neutral Mania. With 3 wildly successful larger palettes and 2 matte basic palettes, everyone seems to go crazy over the Naked. I’m not trying to knock UD, I like a lot of their products, but I don’t own any of the Naked palettes. I’ve lusted over them and while they’re good, they’re even better at marketing. There is life outside of of the Naked palettes. Let’s break it down:
Naked Palette: 12 Shades, $54: The main complaint these palettes is the lack of matte shades. Shimmer shades look beautiful but you get flashback in pictures (aka your eyes will just glow in night time pictures) and not see all of your hard work/time you spend blending.
If you want something smaller: Too Faced Natural Eyes: 9 shades, $36
I love Too Faced shadows. They are super creamy and blend beautifully. 4 mattes, 5 satin/shimmers…you’re set. (Try out the Boudoir Eyes if you want something similar to the Naked 3)
If you want variety: It! Cosmetics Naturally Pretty Vol. 1: 14 shades + 1 Transforming Pearl shade, $42
This palette is great because you are getting all matte shades with a shimmery, “transforming pearl” shade to add shimmer. These mattes aren’t flat or chalky like some other mattes. Neutrals, purple taupe, navy, rose, copper, you have it all with this one. Plus, it’s an incredible value.
If you want to be a pro: LORAC PRO Palette: 16 shades, $42
Most makeup artists will tell you that if you are going to get one palette, this should be it. The top row is all matte, the bottom row shimmer. This palette is slim, packed with all the colors you need, and will give you every eye look you want and need.
If you want glam: Stila Eyes are the Window – Soul: 12 shades, $49,
Matte, shimmer, sparkle, and Stila’s infamous “kitten.” This shade can go from day to drama in a heartbeat and the packaging is drool-worthy.
All of these palettes are beautiful and not to mention, less expensive than the UD. All of the palettes also come in other shade selections so you’ll be sure to find something to fit your needs. xoxo, Nicole
