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Nothing quite compares to the feeling of shopping for a new eyeshadow palette. After all, swatching the shades and experimenting with a sparkly nude or subtle smokey eye is any beauty lover’s favorite pastime.
We don’t have to tell you that playing dress-up as an adult can get pricey, and there’s nothing worse than hitting pan on your favorite eyeshadow leaving the rest for the unused cosmetics graveyard.
We ask for a lot in our eyeshadows — to flatter our ’fits, skin and bone structure. So, to get your money’s worth — and nab that holy grail shadow selection you’ll use until the very end — we rounded up all the best ones for everyday palettes available now.
From affordable drugstore sets to best-selling options from Sephora and Anastasia Beverly Hills, you’ll surely find your next go-to. Pro tip: pick up some of the best makeup setting sprays we tested for all-day glam.
Click below to jump to specialized palette categories:
“Color theory is helpful to make eye color pop in their own unique way,” Alana Wright, celebrity makeup artist, told the Post. “It’s best when there is a variety of textures — like shimmer, matte, and satin — to ensure the eye look created has dimension.”
I wouldn’t call myself a makeup junkie per se, but I have been watching makeup tutorials on YouTube since my middle school days. Ever since, I’ve devoted myself to researching and testing the most acclaimed eyeshadow palettes, plus lesser-known products I’ve been compelled to try.
I’m a bronze and neutral gal, but I’ll sometimes sport a subtle lavender in the spring or a rich auburn shade for fall. And, eyeshadow palettes are one of my favorite travel essentials — why pack individual shadows when you can have multiple at your fingertips?
After blending until I couldn’t blend anymore, I stashed away the shimmery, matte and colorful palettes in my vanity to curate this list of some of the best eyeshadow palettes of 2022. And, with an FAQ with our makeup artist expert, you’ll be en route to find your go-to bundle that’s as good as gold.
FAQ on eyeshadow
Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, it’s always good to have another eyeshadow trick or best practice in your beauty arsenal. Here to answer some commonly-asked questions is our makeup artist expert. Here’s an overview of her background:
- Alana Wright: A NYC-turned-LA makeup artist with experience in print, television and red carpet events. Her clients have ranged from bestselling authors and the former editor-in-chief of Teen Vogue, Elaine Welteroth, to Frank Ocean.
What is a go-to eyeshadow tip everyone should know?
“My go-to eyeshadow tip is to always use an emollient shadow base (concealer or shadow primer) before applying eyeshadow so that it can have long wearability,” Wright said.
As a personal recommendation, Anastasia Beverly Hill’s Mini Eye Primer ($13) is unbeatable.
How can I create an everyday eyeshadow look?
“A great way to create an easy everyday shadow look is paring a neutral shade with your bronzing powder,” she said. “Use the bronzer as a crease color and apply whatever neutral shadow color onto the lower lid. I love using a fluffy domed shadow brush to apply both shades because it does most of the blending for me.”
Additionally, Wright recommends a smaller brush that’s firm and flat to build a more intense color onto the lid, as much as desired. “Circle back and use your fluffy domed shadow brush to soften any hard edges to give a nice diffused look,” she notes.
How can I experiment with colorful eyeshadow as a beginner?
Wright says to “ease into it” or “dive right in.”
“The easiest way for me would be to use the colored shadow as an eyeliner using a small angled liner brush for application,” she continues. “A clean line is created by applying the shadow along the top lash line by connecting small dashes together in a soft dabbing motion.”
Plus, If more color is desired, she recommends blending the shadow onto the lid with a flat shadow placement brush.
How long should I keep an eyeshadow palette before it ‘expires?’
“The standard shelf life of cosmetics is 36 months, but I find powdered products to last a lot longer,” Wright said. “Spray your eyeshadow palette surface with 70% isopropyl alcohol and now and then to be sure that it’s sanitized. The isopropyl alcohol will evaporate without altering the product.”
How can I make my eye color pop?
“Color theory is helpful to make eye color pop in their own unique way,” Wright explains. She provides an overview of which colors look best and complement each eye color:
- Brown eyes: Different times of blue like navy and teal, along with deep plums.
- Green and hazel eyes: Purples and hues of green.
- Blue and gray eyes: Violet, red, orange and warm gold tones.
Best neutral eyeshadow palettes
1. Anastasia Beverly Hills Rose Metals Eyeshadow Palette, $55
Violet Voss’ Mini Crème Brûlée Eyeshadow Palette is, undoubtedly, the perfect purchase to prepare for autumn. Not to mention, the bottom row satisfies all our sparkly dreams.
2. HUDA BEAUTY Empowered Eyeshadow Palette, $67
New from HUDA BEAUTY, its Empowered Eyeshadow Palette is the sole definition of glam without paying more than $70 for a luxe eyeshadow set. I have been loving this palette throughout the autumn months, especially because there are so many looks you can create with it.
The selection of shimmery and matte shades adds even more value to this perfectly gift-able product.
3. Natasha Denona Bronze Eyeshadow Palette, $69
Sometimes, sparkly shadows with a hint of shimmer make a world of difference. Natasha Denona’s Bronze Eyeshadow Palette is one of my favorites, especially for its rich pigmentation and ability to last for more than 12 hours.
Specifically, the “true copper,” “bliss” and “silk” shades are too good to pass up.
4. Natasha Denona Retro Eyeshadow Palette, $69
With Natasha Denona’s Bronze Eyeshadow Palette being a tried-and-true favorite, it’s no surprise the brand’s newly launched Retro Eyeshadow Palette made the cut. When I’m aiming for a dreamy date night look, I whip out this palette instantly for its pretty peony-toned shades.
What’s more, this 15-toned palette is one of the most blend-able I’ve seen, which is great as rose-toned colors (when too pigmented and difficult to blend) can make it look like you have an eye infection (no thanks)! So, this palette — especially shades “andy,” “patty” and “nude mauve” are incredibly stellar.
5. KVD Beauty Lolita Por Vida Eyeshadow Palette, $50
Let’s cut right to the chase — this palette is stunning. It provides a little bit of everything (purples, orange-tones and burnt cranberry) while still reigning true to the neutrals.
Perfect for natural looks, KVD Beauty’s Lolita Por Vida Eyeshadow Palette is unique because shades “reina” and “luna” are larger than usual and, conveniently, both are two of the most applicable for everyday wear. Plus, each shade fittingly complements the next.
6. ILIA The Necessary Eyeshadow Palette, $38
As its name suggests, ILIA’s The Necessary Eyeshadow Palette is just what you need if you want a quick swipe of a sparkly lid color, a good crease color and some options for your outer corner.
I love how sleek the packaging is, how pigmented and balanced the tones look on the skin and how it’s simple to toss in your mini bag for a night out. For less than $40, it’s one of my most recommended palettes.
7. Glossier “Bluff” Monochromes, $22
It’s 2022 — if you haven’t ridden the Glossier wave, you’re missing out.
As one of the most on-trend beauty brands, I was excited to get my hands on one of its Monochromes eyeshadow trios, with “Bluff” being my favorite three-pack. The colors are deliciously pigmented and look iconic with a great liquid liner, mascara-coated lashes and a creamy lip color.
Not to mention, if you’re looking for an inexpensive, everyday wear option, this easy-to-travel-with mini is just shy of $25.
8. Too Faced Natural Eyes Eyeshadow Palette, $44
If you’re searching for a neutral eye palette that’s fit for every day, the Too Faced Natural Eyes Eyeshadow Palette is the ultimate buy. What’s great about it is its three large lid shades (that you can use as a face highlight, too) and rich gold, plum, and espresso crease colors.
9. Natasha Denona Glam Eyeshadow Palette, $69
I’ll come out and say it — Natasha Denona’s Glam Eyeshadow Palette is one of the dreamiest palettes on this list. The shades are extremely blendable, exquisitely luxe and stand out in terms of their rosy champagne and shimmery shades. It’s also one of RHONJ star Melissa Gorga’s favorite beauty products.
Since the colors blend so well, the natural glam look is effortless to achieve. I enjoy the subtle smokiness it provides, too.
10. Urban Decay Naked3 Palette, $54
Yes, Urban Decay’s classic Naked palettes are still popular. One edition that’s pretty slept on is the brand’s Naked3 Palette, unique for its warm-toned shades that still offer a good amount of neutral browns. It’s one to shop, for sure.
I’ve tested other Urban Decay Naked palettes and the colors are richly pigmented and blend well. Impressively, I’ve always received compliments that my eyes have a subtle pop whenever I apply shimmery shades to my crease for a night out.
11. Morphe x Jaclyn Hill Divine Neutrals Eyeshadow Palette, $18
The Morphe x Jaclyn Hill Divine Neutrals Eyeshadow Palette is, well, absolutely divine. I love the mix of buttery soft neutrals and caked-in-sparkly shades that are all highly pigmented, above all else.
What’s more, the colors are incredibly blend-able for the palette priced at less than $20.
12. Tarte Tartelette In Bloom Clay Eyeshadow Palette, $42
I swear by Tarte’s Tartelette In Bloom Clay Eyeshadow Palette. This was one of the first palettes I used in high school — so, perfect for beginners — and all the shades smoothly transition into one another.
And, I’m someone who loves wearing a rosy blush and glossy clear lip gloss, and this palette perfectly complements warm-toned makeup. Whenever I wear the “flower child” and “sweetheart” shades together, I always receive compliments that my eye makeup looks good.
13. Sephora Collection Sephora Playlist Eyeshadow Palette, $15
I’m going to be honest, the Sephora Collection Sephora Playlist Eyeshadow Palette was an impulse buy at the checkout line (you know it makes us weak). But, this palette was well- worth my coin because it’s perfect for every day, has an extra-long ivory color for the base color you’ll use constantly and it’s a wonderful mix of neutral and subtle shimmer.
Best matte eyeshadow palettes
1. Too Faced Born This Way The Natural Nudes Eyeshadow Palette, $52
This eyeshadow palette is simply beautiful. It gives you the most gorgeous shimmer and sparkle and is perfect for mature, evening looks and captivating daytime glam alike.
Designed with every shade — shimmery and matte — that you’ll ever need, you can create dynamic daytime looks and smokey shimmered looks with just one Too Faced Born This Way Palette.
2. Tarte Tartelette Amazonian Clay Matte Eyeshadow Palette, $42
Similar to Tarte’s In Bloom Palette, its Amazon Clay Matte Eyeshadow Palette is a no-frills option designed for people who are focused on achieving matte eyeshadow looks. The left side of the palette is ideal for everyday wear, while the right-hand side is fitting for subtle smokey looks at nighttime.
I’ve had this palette for the better part of a decade, and compared to the In Bloom Palette, it’s almost neck-and-neck. But, I reach for this palette when I want the “no makeup” makeup look.
3. Anastasia Beverly Hills Soft Glam Eyeshadow Palette, $45
I’m Anastasia Beverly Hills’ number-one fan (seriously, I’ve owned practically all of the brand), but the Soft Glam Eyeshadow Palette is absolutely divine. I’ve been loving the “sultry” and “dusty rose” shades, along with “glistening” and “mulberry” shades for holiday date night looks.
The shade range from champagne to rose-pink to darker reds and gold makes it one of my favorite palettes on this list, notably because it’s perfect for each season.
4. Morphe 35O Supernatural Glow Artistry Palette, $27
If you purchase only one eyeshadow kit from this roundup, I highly suggest Morphe’s 35O Supernatural Glow Artistry Palette.
I’ve used this product nearly every day since my freshman year of high school and it’s still going strong nearly seven years later. Each shadow is impressively pigmented, blendable and has stood on all day — even without eyeshadow primer.
5. Urban Decay Naked2 Basics Eyeshadow Palette, $29
I can’t say enough good things about Urban Decay’s Naked2 Basics Eyeshadow Palette, so I’m just going to list three reasons why you should buy it: it’s unbeatable for traveling, absolutely stunning on hazel and brown eyes and less than $30.
I’ve had this palette for about three years and it was always my ol’ reliable for going to class or on a weekend day trip.
6. Charlotte Tilbury Luxury Eyeshadow Palette, $53
Charlotte Tilbury is known for the bronzed and beautiful makeup look — and its ‘Pillow Talk’ lipstick, which I can talk all day about — and its Luxury Eyeshadow Palette aligns with the brand’s artistry.
With four essential shades, including light champagne, warm brown, chocolate brown, and dark taupe, you’ll be equipped to create a striking yet natural finish.
Best colorful eyeshadow palettes
1. HUDA BEAUTY Rose Quartz Eyeshadow Palette, $67
Enter one of HUDE BEAUTY’s more recent launches, the Rose Quartz Eyeshadow Palette. I was intrigued to try this palette, as each shade has something unique to offer.
If you’re looking to experiment with your look — with different hues and textures — this palette is, admittedly, the best I’ve tried. I love that some shades are creamy while others are matte and shimmery. Plus, if you want to amp up your look, all shades are buildable.
2. Anastasia Beverly Hills Modern Renaissance Eye Shadow Palette, $45
Anastasia Beverly Hills’ Modern Renaissance Eye Shadow Palette is the perfect palette for autumn. I’ve been enjoying creating looks with the “raw sienna” and “red ochre” shades It’s one of the warmest palettes on this list, including almost neon pinks and oranges.
Be sure to note that while this palette is super pigmented (one of the boldest shades I’ve tried), the colors aren’t too blendable. That said, it’s best to pick up a second blending brush to ensure the colors transition to your liking.
3. Anastasia Beverly Hills Norvina Eyeshadow Palette, $45
I’m obsessed with the purples in this palette and have been captivated by its funky yet complementary shades. They are super pigmented but also super blendable. The Anastasia Beverly Hills Norvina Eyeshadow Palette, above all others I’ve tried, stands out for its dazzling golds (literally one of the shadow names), deep plums, and fun pinks.
4. Morphe x Jaclyn Hill Palette Volume II, $39
Jaclyn Hill is one of the biggest makeup artists online, and her second edition palette, in collaboration with Morphe, is show-stopping. It’s another neutral and colorful hybrid you’ll find plenty of uses for.
5. Too Faced Mini That’s My Jam Eyeshadow Palette, $29
Think PB&J — but on your eyes.
Too Faced’s Mini That’s My Jam Eyeshadow Palette has one of the most glittery color selections in this roundup, including hot pink and a purple pop. It’s a great first palette for experimenting with bolder, different looks, too.
6. One/Size by Patrick Starrr Visionary Eyeshadow Palette, $21, original price: $42
One/Size by Patrick Starrr is one of Sephora’s bestselling brands, and for a good reason — the Visionary Eyeshadow Palette is great for all makeup fans. Oh, and it’s Flagship palettes are always to die for.
For starters, the left side of the palette is warm, the right side is cool, and the middle is great for all eye colors. It’s a specially curated palette to simply apply and enjoy your eye look.
Best drugstore eyeshadow palettes
1. Maybelline The Blushed Nudes Eyeshadow Makeup Palette, $14
As one of Amazon’s best-sellers in the beauty department, Maybelline’s The Blushed Nudes Eyeshadow Makeup Palette is comparable to many high-end products with warm rosy shades and neutral staples.
2. NYX ‘Warm Neutrals’ Ultimate Shadow Palette, $13, original price: $18
I’ll be honest, I’m a devout Sephora shopper, but NYX is a brand I’ll keep repurchasing.
The quality of its products is just so good — especially its liquid liner — and its Ultimate ‘Warm Neturals’ Shadow Palette is the perfect variety pack for anyone interested in warm tones that will pop on the eye.
3. L’Oreal Paris Paradise Enchanted Eyeshadow Palette, $10, original price: $15
Well, L’Oreal Paris’ Paradise Enchanted Eyeshadow Palette is just peachy.
Not only would the gold shades look stunning in golden hour light but the palette is affordable and offers rich browns for a more complete bundle.
4. Revlon So Fierce! Prismatic Eyeshadow Palette, $9
With four shades that are rich in color and beautiful on any eye color, the aqua-and-neutral quad by Revlon is a great staple for your makeup bag (and to bring on summer vacations).
5. Prism Makeup Highly Pigmented Eye Makeup Palette, $10, original price: $14
If you’re a makeup artist, you need this palette in your arsenal. Optimal for experimentation, you’ll find every color of the rainbow to brush, blend, and beautify your eyes.
Though it’s not my most used palette, it’s unmatched for bolder looks or refining your makeup applying technique.
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