MAC Flame-boyant Art Library Palette Review & Swatches
Flame-boyant
MAC Flame-boyant Art Library Palette ($48.00 for 0.6 oz.) is a new, warm-toned neutral palette with more orange/red undertones to it. It contained five shimmery shades and seven matte shades, and there was a good mix of light, mid-tone, and dark that would make it easy to create a variety of looks.
Some of the mattes were very nice and easy to work with, especially for anyone who prefers to build product or feels like more powdery formulas are too messy to work with. I only had major issues with one of the shimmers–Flame-boyant–which had a chunkier texture and needed to be used with a fingertip/dampened brush. A few of the mattes could have been better but were workable in practice (and looked better in practice than just swatched).
Ingredients
Flame-boyant
PPermanent. $48.00.
What's the Pointilism
What’s the Pointilism is a pale, white gold with soft, warm undertones and a metallic sheen. The texture was soft, more loosely-pressed but not to the point of becoming powdery or difficult to work with. It had rich pigmentation that applied evenly to my skin and blended out easily. It seemed to “melt” slightly, which gave it a smooth sheen. It stayed on nicely for eight hours before I noticed slight fading.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Marc Jacobs Beauty Early Bird (LE, ) is more shimmery, cooler (95% similar).
- NARS Newbury Street (DC, $25.00) is cooler (95% similar).
- City Color New Year, New Me (P, $6.99) is more shimmery (95% similar).
- ColourPop Extra Sprinkles (LE, $5.00) is less shimmery, darker, cooler (95% similar).
- Coloured Raine Glisten (DC, $6.99) is less shimmery, cooler (95% similar).
- MAC Fresh Blade (LE, $17.00) is less shimmery, cooler (95% similar).
- MAC Nylon (P, $17.00) is brighter (95% similar).
- Viseart Champs-Elysees (P, ) is less shimmery (95% similar).
- NARS Mythos (DC, $25.00) is more shimmery, warmer (95% similar).
- Sephora + Pantone Universe Shifting Sand (LE, ) is more shimmery (95% similar).
Formula Overview
$17.00/0.05 oz. - $340.00 Per Ounce
The formula is supposed to be a "highly pigmented powder" that goes on "evenly and blends well." MAC eyeshadows run the gamut from total failures to long-time, cult-favorite staples. In general, the permanent line has been more consistent in performance--and higher performance at that--compared to limited edition launches, but it can really depend.
The Matte finish tends to have a firmer press and a bit of thinness compared to other matte formulas on the market, so MAC matte eyeshadows tend to build up better and have better wear-time without fallout as they're not powdery at all. Some of the newer matte finish shades have had a more velvety quality to them that gives them a softer feel but aren't powdery; these have been easier to blend and are often more pigmented in one layer.
The Lustre finish is designed to have sheerer pigmentation, and it often has more sheer to medium coverage with a drier, dustier consistency that can be hard to apply with a dry brush. Lustre finish shades can suffer from fallout during application, too. They are the old school version of an eyeshadow "topper." I would recommend applying with a fingertip or applying with a dampened brush to get smoother, more even coverage and minimize fallout.
The Satin finish is few and far in-between, but it is softer and more yielding than the Matte finish but performs similarly. They tend to have very low sheen but are quite blendable with medium to opaque coverage. It can be easy to mix the finish up with the Velvet finish, which has more of a sparkle-over-matte effect but are more powdery than the true Matte finish.
The Frost finish is more firmly-pressed into the pan but doesn't have fallout, is often pigmented, and blends out well enough. They can sometimes be a little drier to the touch depending on how much shimmer is in the shade. The Veluxe Pearl finish is one of the creamier takes within the range, and newer shades released in the finish tend to have more moderate, silicone-like slip. I've found that Veluxe Pearl finish shades tend to have more semi-opaque pigmentation and are more consistent in performance than some of the other finishes.
One thing I've found with MAC eyeshadows is that they tend to last longer without primer than the average brand (eight hours). While some eyeshadow shades don't swatch well, they often apply better in practice--as in on the eyes!--than just swatched on the skin. They can be quite hit or miss, and they have inconsistencies between releases (see Carbon and its sordid review history!).
Browse all of our MAC Eyeshadow swatches.
What's the Pointilism
PiPPermanent in Palette. $17.00.
Samoa Silk
Samoa Silk is a medium peach with strong, warm orange undertones and a matte finish. It had nearly opaque color payoff that applied evenly to my skin, but it had a tendency to sheer out a little bit, so a primer would be better with this shade to help it stay in place. The texture was soft, blendable, and slightly dusty in the pan but not prone to fallout. It wore well for seven and a half hours before there was visible fading.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Makeup by Mario Master Mattes #4 (PiP, ) is darker (95% similar).
- ColourPop Yes Plz (PiP, $4.50) is cooler (95% similar).
- ColourPop KOTL (LE, $4.50) is cooler (95% similar).
- Tarte Cashmere (PiP, ) is lighter (90% similar).
- ColourPop Magical (PiP, $4.50) is cooler (90% similar).
- ColourPop Running Late (P, $4.50) is darker (90% similar).
- Tarte Peach Poppy (LE, ) is more muted (95% similar).
- Wet 'n' Wild To Muse and Carouse #1 (DC, $2.29) is darker (90% similar).
- ColourPop Twilight Flash (LE, $4.50) is brighter, warmer (90% similar).
- NARS Foix (DC, $25.00) is darker, more muted (90% similar).
Formula Overview
$17.00/0.05 oz. - $340.00 Per Ounce
The formula is supposed to be a "highly pigmented powder" that goes on "evenly and blends well." MAC eyeshadows run the gamut from total failures to long-time, cult-favorite staples. In general, the permanent line has been more consistent in performance--and higher performance at that--compared to limited edition launches, but it can really depend.
The Matte finish tends to have a firmer press and a bit of thinness compared to other matte formulas on the market, so MAC matte eyeshadows tend to build up better and have better wear-time without fallout as they're not powdery at all. Some of the newer matte finish shades have had a more velvety quality to them that gives them a softer feel but aren't powdery; these have been easier to blend and are often more pigmented in one layer.
The Lustre finish is designed to have sheerer pigmentation, and it often has more sheer to medium coverage with a drier, dustier consistency that can be hard to apply with a dry brush. Lustre finish shades can suffer from fallout during application, too. They are the old school version of an eyeshadow "topper." I would recommend applying with a fingertip or applying with a dampened brush to get smoother, more even coverage and minimize fallout.
The Satin finish is few and far in-between, but it is softer and more yielding than the Matte finish but performs similarly. They tend to have very low sheen but are quite blendable with medium to opaque coverage. It can be easy to mix the finish up with the Velvet finish, which has more of a sparkle-over-matte effect but are more powdery than the true Matte finish.
The Frost finish is more firmly-pressed into the pan but doesn't have fallout, is often pigmented, and blends out well enough. They can sometimes be a little drier to the touch depending on how much shimmer is in the shade. The Veluxe Pearl finish is one of the creamier takes within the range, and newer shades released in the finish tend to have more moderate, silicone-like slip. I've found that Veluxe Pearl finish shades tend to have more semi-opaque pigmentation and are more consistent in performance than some of the other finishes.
One thing I've found with MAC eyeshadows is that they tend to last longer without primer than the average brand (eight hours). While some eyeshadow shades don't swatch well, they often apply better in practice--as in on the eyes!--than just swatched on the skin. They can be quite hit or miss, and they have inconsistencies between releases (see Carbon and its sordid review history!).
Browse all of our MAC Eyeshadow swatches.
Ingredients
Talc, Zinc Stearate, Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate, Isostearyl Neopentanoate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Caprylyl Glycol, Hexylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, [+/- Silica, Mica, Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891), Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499), Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163), Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090), Carmine (Ci 75470), Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289), Chromium Oxide Greens (Ci 77288), Ferric Ferrocyanide (Ci 77510), Manganese Violet (Ci 77742), Red 40 Lake (Ci 16035), Ultramarines (Ci 77007), Yellow 5 Lake (Ci 19140)]
Disclaimer: Ingredient lists are as available by the brand (or retailer) at the time of publishing. Please always check product packaging, if it exists, for the ingredient list applicable to the product you're purchasing, or the brand or retailer's website for the most up-to-date ingredient list.
Samoa Silk
PPermanent. $17.00.
Amber Lights
Amber Lights is a light-medium copper with strong, warm gold shimmer and a lightly, metallic finish. It was richly pigmented with a smooth, lightly creamy texture that applied well to bare skin and diffused easily along the edges. It lasted well for eight hours on me before fading a bit.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- ColourPop Uninhibited (PiP, $4.50) is less shimmery (95% similar).
- Milani Bella Copper (23) (P, $4.49) is less shimmery, lighter (95% similar).
- Urban Decay Lucky (LE, $19.00) is lighter (95% similar).
- NARS Isolde #1 (DC, $25.00) is less shimmery (95% similar).
- Marc Jacobs Beauty The Starlet #4 (PiP, ) is warmer (95% similar).
- Make Up For Ever ME728 Copper Red (P, $17.00) is darker, cooler (95% similar).
- LORAC Unleashed (PiP, $19.00) is lighter (95% similar).
- bareMinerals Bragging Rights (LE, ) is lighter (95% similar).
- NARS Isolde #1 (DC, $25.00) is less shimmery (95% similar).
- ColourPop Crackle (P, $4.50) is more shimmery (95% similar).
Formula Overview
$17.00/0.05 oz. - $340.00 Per Ounce
The formula is supposed to be a "highly pigmented powder" that goes on "evenly and blends well." MAC eyeshadows run the gamut from total failures to long-time, cult-favorite staples. In general, the permanent line has been more consistent in performance--and higher performance at that--compared to limited edition launches, but it can really depend.
The Matte finish tends to have a firmer press and a bit of thinness compared to other matte formulas on the market, so MAC matte eyeshadows tend to build up better and have better wear-time without fallout as they're not powdery at all. Some of the newer matte finish shades have had a more velvety quality to them that gives them a softer feel but aren't powdery; these have been easier to blend and are often more pigmented in one layer.
The Lustre finish is designed to have sheerer pigmentation, and it often has more sheer to medium coverage with a drier, dustier consistency that can be hard to apply with a dry brush. Lustre finish shades can suffer from fallout during application, too. They are the old school version of an eyeshadow "topper." I would recommend applying with a fingertip or applying with a dampened brush to get smoother, more even coverage and minimize fallout.
The Satin finish is few and far in-between, but it is softer and more yielding than the Matte finish but performs similarly. They tend to have very low sheen but are quite blendable with medium to opaque coverage. It can be easy to mix the finish up with the Velvet finish, which has more of a sparkle-over-matte effect but are more powdery than the true Matte finish.
The Frost finish is more firmly-pressed into the pan but doesn't have fallout, is often pigmented, and blends out well enough. They can sometimes be a little drier to the touch depending on how much shimmer is in the shade. The Veluxe Pearl finish is one of the creamier takes within the range, and newer shades released in the finish tend to have more moderate, silicone-like slip. I've found that Veluxe Pearl finish shades tend to have more semi-opaque pigmentation and are more consistent in performance than some of the other finishes.
One thing I've found with MAC eyeshadows is that they tend to last longer without primer than the average brand (eight hours). While some eyeshadow shades don't swatch well, they often apply better in practice--as in on the eyes!--than just swatched on the skin. They can be quite hit or miss, and they have inconsistencies between releases (see Carbon and its sordid review history!).
Browse all of our MAC Eyeshadow swatches.
Looks Using this Product
Amber Lights
PPermanent. $17.00.
La Vida Mocha
La Vida Mocha is a softer, medium brown with warm undertones and a pearly sheen. The color payoff was opaque in one layer, which adhered well to my lid with a smooth, even application. The texture was soft, more loosely-pressed than the typical MAC eyeshadow but not to the point that it became really powdery or prone to sheering out. You’ll want to tap off excess, though, prior to applying to the eye to avoid the fallout. It stayed on well for eight hours before I noticed slight fading.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Guerlain Electric Look #6 (LE, ) is more shimmery (95% similar).
- NARS Isolde II (PiP, $19.00) is more shimmery, lighter (95% similar).
- NARS Isolde #2 (DC, $25.00) is more shimmery (95% similar).
- NARS Code Red (LE, $19.00) is more shimmery, darker (95% similar).
- ColourPop Deep Dive (LE, $6.00) is more shimmery (95% similar).
- Too Faced Puppy Love (PiP, ) is more shimmery, lighter (90% similar).
- Milani Suede Side to Side (PiP, $5.99) is more shimmery, lighter, cooler (90% similar).
- Tom Ford Beauty Warm (Winter 2016) Eyeshadow #2 (LE, ) is more shimmery, lighter (90% similar).
- Chanel Les Indispensables #9 (LE, ) is less shimmery (90% similar).
- Dior Feel #4 (PiP, ) is more shimmery, lighter (90% similar).
Formula Overview
$17.00/0.05 oz. - $340.00 Per Ounce
The formula is supposed to be a "highly pigmented powder" that goes on "evenly and blends well." MAC eyeshadows run the gamut from total failures to long-time, cult-favorite staples. In general, the permanent line has been more consistent in performance--and higher performance at that--compared to limited edition launches, but it can really depend.
The Matte finish tends to have a firmer press and a bit of thinness compared to other matte formulas on the market, so MAC matte eyeshadows tend to build up better and have better wear-time without fallout as they're not powdery at all. Some of the newer matte finish shades have had a more velvety quality to them that gives them a softer feel but aren't powdery; these have been easier to blend and are often more pigmented in one layer.
The Lustre finish is designed to have sheerer pigmentation, and it often has more sheer to medium coverage with a drier, dustier consistency that can be hard to apply with a dry brush. Lustre finish shades can suffer from fallout during application, too. They are the old school version of an eyeshadow "topper." I would recommend applying with a fingertip or applying with a dampened brush to get smoother, more even coverage and minimize fallout.
The Satin finish is few and far in-between, but it is softer and more yielding than the Matte finish but performs similarly. They tend to have very low sheen but are quite blendable with medium to opaque coverage. It can be easy to mix the finish up with the Velvet finish, which has more of a sparkle-over-matte effect but are more powdery than the true Matte finish.
The Frost finish is more firmly-pressed into the pan but doesn't have fallout, is often pigmented, and blends out well enough. They can sometimes be a little drier to the touch depending on how much shimmer is in the shade. The Veluxe Pearl finish is one of the creamier takes within the range, and newer shades released in the finish tend to have more moderate, silicone-like slip. I've found that Veluxe Pearl finish shades tend to have more semi-opaque pigmentation and are more consistent in performance than some of the other finishes.
One thing I've found with MAC eyeshadows is that they tend to last longer without primer than the average brand (eight hours). While some eyeshadow shades don't swatch well, they often apply better in practice--as in on the eyes!--than just swatched on the skin. They can be quite hit or miss, and they have inconsistencies between releases (see Carbon and its sordid review history!).
Browse all of our MAC Eyeshadow swatches.
La Vida Mocha
PiPPermanent in Palette. $17.00.
Dada Issues
Dada Issues is a light-medium brown with warm, orange undertones and a matte finish. It had opaque pigmentation with a smooth, velvety consistency that was just slightly powdery in the pan, but it applied evenly and didn’t sheer out too readily. It wore well for eight hours before I noticed any fading on my skin.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Huda Beauty Warm Browns #8 (PiP, ) is lighter (95% similar).
- Wet 'n' Wild My Glamour Squad #6 (PiP, ) is lighter (95% similar).
- Pat McGrath Tranquility (LE, $25.00) is darker (95% similar).
- Juvia's Place Nubian #3 (P, ) is more muted (95% similar).
- Sydney Grace Cleveland (Light) (PiP, $5.25) is lighter, brighter (95% similar).
- Too Faced Desert Vibes (LE, $16.00) is lighter (95% similar).
- Too Faced For the Graham (LE, $16.00) is darker, warmer (95% similar).
- ColourPop Boheme (Gemini) (LE, $4.50) is cooler (95% similar).
- ColourPop Chai (LE, $4.50) is lighter (95% similar).
- ColourPop Maple Syrup (LE, $4.50) is lighter (95% similar).
Formula Overview
$17.00/0.05 oz. - $340.00 Per Ounce
The formula is supposed to be a "highly pigmented powder" that goes on "evenly and blends well." MAC eyeshadows run the gamut from total failures to long-time, cult-favorite staples. In general, the permanent line has been more consistent in performance--and higher performance at that--compared to limited edition launches, but it can really depend.
The Matte finish tends to have a firmer press and a bit of thinness compared to other matte formulas on the market, so MAC matte eyeshadows tend to build up better and have better wear-time without fallout as they're not powdery at all. Some of the newer matte finish shades have had a more velvety quality to them that gives them a softer feel but aren't powdery; these have been easier to blend and are often more pigmented in one layer.
The Lustre finish is designed to have sheerer pigmentation, and it often has more sheer to medium coverage with a drier, dustier consistency that can be hard to apply with a dry brush. Lustre finish shades can suffer from fallout during application, too. They are the old school version of an eyeshadow "topper." I would recommend applying with a fingertip or applying with a dampened brush to get smoother, more even coverage and minimize fallout.
The Satin finish is few and far in-between, but it is softer and more yielding than the Matte finish but performs similarly. They tend to have very low sheen but are quite blendable with medium to opaque coverage. It can be easy to mix the finish up with the Velvet finish, which has more of a sparkle-over-matte effect but are more powdery than the true Matte finish.
The Frost finish is more firmly-pressed into the pan but doesn't have fallout, is often pigmented, and blends out well enough. They can sometimes be a little drier to the touch depending on how much shimmer is in the shade. The Veluxe Pearl finish is one of the creamier takes within the range, and newer shades released in the finish tend to have more moderate, silicone-like slip. I've found that Veluxe Pearl finish shades tend to have more semi-opaque pigmentation and are more consistent in performance than some of the other finishes.
One thing I've found with MAC eyeshadows is that they tend to last longer without primer than the average brand (eight hours). While some eyeshadow shades don't swatch well, they often apply better in practice--as in on the eyes!--than just swatched on the skin. They can be quite hit or miss, and they have inconsistencies between releases (see Carbon and its sordid review history!).
Browse all of our MAC Eyeshadow swatches.
Dada Issues
PiPPermanent in Palette. $17.00.
Rule
Rule is a light-medium orange with warm undertones and a matte finish. The eyeshadow had nearly opaque color coverage in one layer, which was buildable to full coverage with a second layer. The texture was more firmly-pressed in the pan, but I had no trouble picking up the color with my brush, and it transferred well to bare skin without adhering so strongly that it became difficult to blend out. It lasted well eight hours on my lid before I noticed a bit of fading.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Sephora Sandstone (LE, ) is lighter (95% similar).
- Dominique Cosmetics Sweet Tea (PiP, ) is darker (95% similar).
- Dominique Cosmetics Desert Queen (LE, ) is cooler (95% similar).
- NABLA Cosmetics Honey (PiP, $8.00) is darker (95% similar).
- MAC Cheer Me On (LE, $17.00) is brighter (95% similar).
- ColourPop Chorus (LE, $4.50) is lighter (95% similar).
- Coloured Raine Natural (LE, $6.99) is darker, more muted (95% similar).
- Viseart Creamsicle (23) (LE, ) is warmer (95% similar).
- ColourPop Slip Dress (LE, $4.50) is warmer (95% similar).
- Kaja Major Mandarin (PiP, ) is darker (95% similar).
Formula Overview
$17.00/0.05 oz. - $340.00 Per Ounce
The formula is supposed to be a "highly pigmented powder" that goes on "evenly and blends well." MAC eyeshadows run the gamut from total failures to long-time, cult-favorite staples. In general, the permanent line has been more consistent in performance--and higher performance at that--compared to limited edition launches, but it can really depend.
The Matte finish tends to have a firmer press and a bit of thinness compared to other matte formulas on the market, so MAC matte eyeshadows tend to build up better and have better wear-time without fallout as they're not powdery at all. Some of the newer matte finish shades have had a more velvety quality to them that gives them a softer feel but aren't powdery; these have been easier to blend and are often more pigmented in one layer.
The Lustre finish is designed to have sheerer pigmentation, and it often has more sheer to medium coverage with a drier, dustier consistency that can be hard to apply with a dry brush. Lustre finish shades can suffer from fallout during application, too. They are the old school version of an eyeshadow "topper." I would recommend applying with a fingertip or applying with a dampened brush to get smoother, more even coverage and minimize fallout.
The Satin finish is few and far in-between, but it is softer and more yielding than the Matte finish but performs similarly. They tend to have very low sheen but are quite blendable with medium to opaque coverage. It can be easy to mix the finish up with the Velvet finish, which has more of a sparkle-over-matte effect but are more powdery than the true Matte finish.
The Frost finish is more firmly-pressed into the pan but doesn't have fallout, is often pigmented, and blends out well enough. They can sometimes be a little drier to the touch depending on how much shimmer is in the shade. The Veluxe Pearl finish is one of the creamier takes within the range, and newer shades released in the finish tend to have more moderate, silicone-like slip. I've found that Veluxe Pearl finish shades tend to have more semi-opaque pigmentation and are more consistent in performance than some of the other finishes.
One thing I've found with MAC eyeshadows is that they tend to last longer without primer than the average brand (eight hours). While some eyeshadow shades don't swatch well, they often apply better in practice--as in on the eyes!--than just swatched on the skin. They can be quite hit or miss, and they have inconsistencies between releases (see Carbon and its sordid review history!).
Browse all of our MAC Eyeshadow swatches.
Look Using this Product
Rule
PPermanent. $17.00.
Dali Wood
Dali Wood is a medium brown with warm, reddish undertones and a matte finish. It had opaque color payoff in a single layer, which adhered evenly to bare skin and blended out with minimal effort. The texture was soft, velvety without being too powdery or too firmly-pressed in the pan. It stayed on nicely for eight hours on me before it showed signs of fading.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- ColourPop Top Notch (P, $4.50) is cooler (95% similar).
- Milani Spice It Up (PiP, $5.99) is darker (95% similar).
- ColourPop Hard (PiP, $4.50) is darker (95% similar).
- Sydney Grace Pumpkin Pie (LE, $5.25) is darker, cooler (95% similar).
- Makeup by Mario N8 (LE, ) is darker, warmer (95% similar).
- Urban Decay Not For Sale (LE, $19.00) is darker (95% similar).
- ColourPop Primetime (PiP, $4.50) is cooler (95% similar).
- Urban Decay Bitter (LE, $19.00) is warmer (95% similar).
- ColourPop Bask (PiP, $4.50) is more shimmery (90% similar).
- Wet 'n' Wild VI Purple #1 (PiP, ) is more muted, cooler (90% similar).
Formula Overview
$17.00/0.05 oz. - $340.00 Per Ounce
The formula is supposed to be a "highly pigmented powder" that goes on "evenly and blends well." MAC eyeshadows run the gamut from total failures to long-time, cult-favorite staples. In general, the permanent line has been more consistent in performance--and higher performance at that--compared to limited edition launches, but it can really depend.
The Matte finish tends to have a firmer press and a bit of thinness compared to other matte formulas on the market, so MAC matte eyeshadows tend to build up better and have better wear-time without fallout as they're not powdery at all. Some of the newer matte finish shades have had a more velvety quality to them that gives them a softer feel but aren't powdery; these have been easier to blend and are often more pigmented in one layer.
The Lustre finish is designed to have sheerer pigmentation, and it often has more sheer to medium coverage with a drier, dustier consistency that can be hard to apply with a dry brush. Lustre finish shades can suffer from fallout during application, too. They are the old school version of an eyeshadow "topper." I would recommend applying with a fingertip or applying with a dampened brush to get smoother, more even coverage and minimize fallout.
The Satin finish is few and far in-between, but it is softer and more yielding than the Matte finish but performs similarly. They tend to have very low sheen but are quite blendable with medium to opaque coverage. It can be easy to mix the finish up with the Velvet finish, which has more of a sparkle-over-matte effect but are more powdery than the true Matte finish.
The Frost finish is more firmly-pressed into the pan but doesn't have fallout, is often pigmented, and blends out well enough. They can sometimes be a little drier to the touch depending on how much shimmer is in the shade. The Veluxe Pearl finish is one of the creamier takes within the range, and newer shades released in the finish tend to have more moderate, silicone-like slip. I've found that Veluxe Pearl finish shades tend to have more semi-opaque pigmentation and are more consistent in performance than some of the other finishes.
One thing I've found with MAC eyeshadows is that they tend to last longer without primer than the average brand (eight hours). While some eyeshadow shades don't swatch well, they often apply better in practice--as in on the eyes!--than just swatched on the skin. They can be quite hit or miss, and they have inconsistencies between releases (see Carbon and its sordid review history!).
Browse all of our MAC Eyeshadow swatches.
Look Using this Product
Dali Wood
PiPPermanent in Palette. $17.00.
Embark
Embark is a deep brown with subtle, neutral-to-cool undertones and a matte finish. The texture was slightly drier and stiffer in the pan, but it had good pigmentation that was buildable to full coverage with less than half of a layer on top. I was surprised that it wasn’t harder to diffuse along the edges, though it wasn’t the most blendable shade in the palette–workable. It wore well for eight hours on me before it started to fade noticeably.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- ColourPop Prism (LE, $4.50) is darker, warmer (95% similar).
- Sydney Grace Drummers Drumming (DC, $5.25) is lighter, warmer (95% similar).
- Urban Decay Eight (LE, $19.00) is lighter (95% similar).
- Urban Decay Collect Call (LE, $19.00) is darker (95% similar).
- Tarte Fireside (PiP, ) is lighter (95% similar).
- Milani Late Date (PiP, $5.99) is warmer (95% similar).
- Sydney Grace Beyond (P, $5.25) is warmer (95% similar).
- ColourPop Cloud Nine (P, $4.50) is lighter (95% similar).
- Smashbox Coffee Blossom (LE, ) is lighter (95% similar).
- NABLA Cosmetics Adagio (PiP, $8.00) is warmer (95% similar).
Formula Overview
$17.00/0.05 oz. - $340.00 Per Ounce
The formula is supposed to be a "highly pigmented powder" that goes on "evenly and blends well." MAC eyeshadows run the gamut from total failures to long-time, cult-favorite staples. In general, the permanent line has been more consistent in performance--and higher performance at that--compared to limited edition launches, but it can really depend.
The Matte finish tends to have a firmer press and a bit of thinness compared to other matte formulas on the market, so MAC matte eyeshadows tend to build up better and have better wear-time without fallout as they're not powdery at all. Some of the newer matte finish shades have had a more velvety quality to them that gives them a softer feel but aren't powdery; these have been easier to blend and are often more pigmented in one layer.
The Lustre finish is designed to have sheerer pigmentation, and it often has more sheer to medium coverage with a drier, dustier consistency that can be hard to apply with a dry brush. Lustre finish shades can suffer from fallout during application, too. They are the old school version of an eyeshadow "topper." I would recommend applying with a fingertip or applying with a dampened brush to get smoother, more even coverage and minimize fallout.
The Satin finish is few and far in-between, but it is softer and more yielding than the Matte finish but performs similarly. They tend to have very low sheen but are quite blendable with medium to opaque coverage. It can be easy to mix the finish up with the Velvet finish, which has more of a sparkle-over-matte effect but are more powdery than the true Matte finish.
The Frost finish is more firmly-pressed into the pan but doesn't have fallout, is often pigmented, and blends out well enough. They can sometimes be a little drier to the touch depending on how much shimmer is in the shade. The Veluxe Pearl finish is one of the creamier takes within the range, and newer shades released in the finish tend to have more moderate, silicone-like slip. I've found that Veluxe Pearl finish shades tend to have more semi-opaque pigmentation and are more consistent in performance than some of the other finishes.
One thing I've found with MAC eyeshadows is that they tend to last longer without primer than the average brand (eight hours). While some eyeshadow shades don't swatch well, they often apply better in practice--as in on the eyes!--than just swatched on the skin. They can be quite hit or miss, and they have inconsistencies between releases (see Carbon and its sordid review history!).
Browse all of our MAC Eyeshadow swatches.
Looks Using this Product
Embark
PPermanent. $17.00.
Fan the Flames
Fan the Flames is a medium-dark copper with warm, rusty red undertones and a pearly sheen. It had nearly opaque pigmentation in a single layer, while the eyeshadow had a smooth, firmer consistency that was firm without being stiff or difficult to pick up or to blend out on my skin. It lasted well for eight hours before it started to fade a bit.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- MAC DM Me (PiP, ) is less shimmery (95% similar).
- Laura Mercier Star Ruby (LE, ) is more shimmery, warmer (90% similar).
- Melt Cosmetics Crush (PiP, ) is darker (90% similar).
- Natasha Denona Cyclone (138DC) (DC, $29.00) is more shimmery, darker (90% similar).
- MAC Gingersnap (PiP, $17.00) is more shimmery, warmer (90% similar).
- Bad Habit Solar (PiP, ) is more shimmery, darker (90% similar).
- Charlotte Tilbury Walk of No Shame #2 (PiP, ) is less shimmery, darker (90% similar).
- Dose of Colors Try Me (LE, ) is more shimmery, cooler (90% similar).
- NARS Bayadere #2 (PiP, $19.00) is darker (90% similar).
- ColourPop Racks (LE, $4.50) is more shimmery (90% similar).
Formula Overview
$17.00/0.05 oz. - $340.00 Per Ounce
The formula is supposed to be a "highly pigmented powder" that goes on "evenly and blends well." MAC eyeshadows run the gamut from total failures to long-time, cult-favorite staples. In general, the permanent line has been more consistent in performance--and higher performance at that--compared to limited edition launches, but it can really depend.
The Matte finish tends to have a firmer press and a bit of thinness compared to other matte formulas on the market, so MAC matte eyeshadows tend to build up better and have better wear-time without fallout as they're not powdery at all. Some of the newer matte finish shades have had a more velvety quality to them that gives them a softer feel but aren't powdery; these have been easier to blend and are often more pigmented in one layer.
The Lustre finish is designed to have sheerer pigmentation, and it often has more sheer to medium coverage with a drier, dustier consistency that can be hard to apply with a dry brush. Lustre finish shades can suffer from fallout during application, too. They are the old school version of an eyeshadow "topper." I would recommend applying with a fingertip or applying with a dampened brush to get smoother, more even coverage and minimize fallout.
The Satin finish is few and far in-between, but it is softer and more yielding than the Matte finish but performs similarly. They tend to have very low sheen but are quite blendable with medium to opaque coverage. It can be easy to mix the finish up with the Velvet finish, which has more of a sparkle-over-matte effect but are more powdery than the true Matte finish.
The Frost finish is more firmly-pressed into the pan but doesn't have fallout, is often pigmented, and blends out well enough. They can sometimes be a little drier to the touch depending on how much shimmer is in the shade. The Veluxe Pearl finish is one of the creamier takes within the range, and newer shades released in the finish tend to have more moderate, silicone-like slip. I've found that Veluxe Pearl finish shades tend to have more semi-opaque pigmentation and are more consistent in performance than some of the other finishes.
One thing I've found with MAC eyeshadows is that they tend to last longer without primer than the average brand (eight hours). While some eyeshadow shades don't swatch well, they often apply better in practice--as in on the eyes!--than just swatched on the skin. They can be quite hit or miss, and they have inconsistencies between releases (see Carbon and its sordid review history!).
Browse all of our MAC Eyeshadow swatches.
Look Using this Product
Fan the Flames
PiPPermanent in Palette. $17.00.
Flame-boyant
Flame-boyant is a deep, coppery red with warm undertones and a subtle, pink sparkle sprinkled throughout that gave it a more pearlescent sheen. It had good pigmentation, but the texture was problematic as it was drier, almost chunky, and thick. I found it difficult to pick up and to apply with a typical dry, eyeshadow brush, and there was quite a bit of fallout that resulted as well! It was easiest to use with fingertips but was manageable with a dampened brush as well. It stayed on nicely for eight hours before fading noticeably on my skin.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- NARS Indian Wells (LE, $19.00) is less shimmery, more muted (95% similar).
- Marc Jacobs Beauty The Siren #2 (LE, ) is lighter (90% similar).
- Kevyn Aucoin Heat (LE, ) is more shimmery, lighter, warmer (90% similar).
- Charlotte Tilbury Supersonic Girl #4 (LE, ) is less shimmery, lighter (90% similar).
- Viseart Rose (PiP, ) is less shimmery, lighter (90% similar).
- Melt Cosmetics Lydia (LE, ) is lighter, warmer (90% similar).
- MAC Reflects Rust (P, $21.00) is more shimmery, warmer (90% similar).
- Sleek MakeUP Sunset #8 (PiP, $9.99) is warmer (90% similar).
- KVD Beauty Swoon (Better Together) (LE, ) is less shimmery, darker, cooler (90% similar).
- UOMA Beauty Barranquilla (LE, ) is less shimmery, lighter, warmer (90% similar).
Formula Overview
$17.00/0.05 oz. - $340.00 Per Ounce
The formula is supposed to be a "highly pigmented powder" that goes on "evenly and blends well." MAC eyeshadows run the gamut from total failures to long-time, cult-favorite staples. In general, the permanent line has been more consistent in performance--and higher performance at that--compared to limited edition launches, but it can really depend.
The Matte finish tends to have a firmer press and a bit of thinness compared to other matte formulas on the market, so MAC matte eyeshadows tend to build up better and have better wear-time without fallout as they're not powdery at all. Some of the newer matte finish shades have had a more velvety quality to them that gives them a softer feel but aren't powdery; these have been easier to blend and are often more pigmented in one layer.
The Lustre finish is designed to have sheerer pigmentation, and it often has more sheer to medium coverage with a drier, dustier consistency that can be hard to apply with a dry brush. Lustre finish shades can suffer from fallout during application, too. They are the old school version of an eyeshadow "topper." I would recommend applying with a fingertip or applying with a dampened brush to get smoother, more even coverage and minimize fallout.
The Satin finish is few and far in-between, but it is softer and more yielding than the Matte finish but performs similarly. They tend to have very low sheen but are quite blendable with medium to opaque coverage. It can be easy to mix the finish up with the Velvet finish, which has more of a sparkle-over-matte effect but are more powdery than the true Matte finish.
The Frost finish is more firmly-pressed into the pan but doesn't have fallout, is often pigmented, and blends out well enough. They can sometimes be a little drier to the touch depending on how much shimmer is in the shade. The Veluxe Pearl finish is one of the creamier takes within the range, and newer shades released in the finish tend to have more moderate, silicone-like slip. I've found that Veluxe Pearl finish shades tend to have more semi-opaque pigmentation and are more consistent in performance than some of the other finishes.
One thing I've found with MAC eyeshadows is that they tend to last longer without primer than the average brand (eight hours). While some eyeshadow shades don't swatch well, they often apply better in practice--as in on the eyes!--than just swatched on the skin. They can be quite hit or miss, and they have inconsistencies between releases (see Carbon and its sordid review history!).
Browse all of our MAC Eyeshadow swatches.
Look Using this Product
Flame-boyant
PiPPermanent in Palette. $17.00.
Louvre at First Sight
Louvre at First Sight is a muted, medium-dark red with warm, orange undertones and a matte finish. The consistency was almost grainy; it felt drier and looser to the touch, though it blended out significantly better than I anticipated in practice. It had buildable pigmentation from medium to semi-opaque but needed a primer or white base to really apply true-to-pan in color. It wore well seven and a half hours on my skin before I noticed fading.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- ColourPop Periodt (LE, $4.50) is lighter (95% similar).
- Sydney Grace Dearest Constant (Deep) (PiP, $5.25) is darker (95% similar).
- Sydney Grace You Can (PiP, $5.25) is more shimmery, darker (95% similar).
- Dose of Colors Rose Berry (PiP, ) is darker (95% similar).
- Lethal Cosmetics Fahrenheit (P, $6.00) is lighter (90% similar).
- Persona Passionate (PiP, ) is lighter, warmer (90% similar).
- Smashbox Guava (P, $22.00) is darker, warmer (90% similar).
- Sydney Grace Berry Fizz (DC, $5.25) is darker (90% similar).
- Urban Decay Foxfire (LE, $19.00) is lighter, warmer (90% similar).
- Viseart Grande Pro (Vol. 1) #5 (LE, ) is lighter, warmer (90% similar).
Formula Overview
$17.00/0.05 oz. - $340.00 Per Ounce
The formula is supposed to be a "highly pigmented powder" that goes on "evenly and blends well." MAC eyeshadows run the gamut from total failures to long-time, cult-favorite staples. In general, the permanent line has been more consistent in performance--and higher performance at that--compared to limited edition launches, but it can really depend.
The Matte finish tends to have a firmer press and a bit of thinness compared to other matte formulas on the market, so MAC matte eyeshadows tend to build up better and have better wear-time without fallout as they're not powdery at all. Some of the newer matte finish shades have had a more velvety quality to them that gives them a softer feel but aren't powdery; these have been easier to blend and are often more pigmented in one layer.
The Lustre finish is designed to have sheerer pigmentation, and it often has more sheer to medium coverage with a drier, dustier consistency that can be hard to apply with a dry brush. Lustre finish shades can suffer from fallout during application, too. They are the old school version of an eyeshadow "topper." I would recommend applying with a fingertip or applying with a dampened brush to get smoother, more even coverage and minimize fallout.
The Satin finish is few and far in-between, but it is softer and more yielding than the Matte finish but performs similarly. They tend to have very low sheen but are quite blendable with medium to opaque coverage. It can be easy to mix the finish up with the Velvet finish, which has more of a sparkle-over-matte effect but are more powdery than the true Matte finish.
The Frost finish is more firmly-pressed into the pan but doesn't have fallout, is often pigmented, and blends out well enough. They can sometimes be a little drier to the touch depending on how much shimmer is in the shade. The Veluxe Pearl finish is one of the creamier takes within the range, and newer shades released in the finish tend to have more moderate, silicone-like slip. I've found that Veluxe Pearl finish shades tend to have more semi-opaque pigmentation and are more consistent in performance than some of the other finishes.
One thing I've found with MAC eyeshadows is that they tend to last longer without primer than the average brand (eight hours). While some eyeshadow shades don't swatch well, they often apply better in practice--as in on the eyes!--than just swatched on the skin. They can be quite hit or miss, and they have inconsistencies between releases (see Carbon and its sordid review history!).
Browse all of our MAC Eyeshadow swatches.
Look Using this Product
Louvre at First Sight
PiPPermanent in Palette. $17.00.
Everyone's Darling
Everyone’s Darling is a muted, medium-dark reddened plum with subtle, warm undertones and a matte finish. It had buildable color payoff from medium to mostly opaque (two to three layers). The texture was drier to the touch, a little dusty in the pan, though it didn’t seem to be prone to fallout as long as I was careful to tap off the excess. It blended out without too much effort but had room for improvement. It lasted well for eight hours on me before I noticed any fading.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Makeup Geek Cherry Cola (DC, $6.00) is cooler (95% similar).
- Clarins Flame #3 (PiP, ) is lighter, warmer (95% similar).
- Tarte Koalified (LE, ) is warmer (95% similar).
- NARS Grand Palais #2 (DC, $25.00) is darker (95% similar).
- Marc Jacobs Beauty On Top (LE, ) is lighter (95% similar).
- Too Faced Bordeaux (PiP, $16.00) is darker, warmer (95% similar).
- ColourPop Strike It (LE, $4.50) is cooler (95% similar).
- ColourPop Shade (LE, $4.50) is more shimmery (95% similar).
- Zoeva Lonely City (PiP, ) is lighter (95% similar).
- Make Up For Ever M608 Red Brown (DC, $21.00) is darker (95% similar).
Formula Overview
$17.00/0.05 oz. - $340.00 Per Ounce
The formula is supposed to be a "highly pigmented powder" that goes on "evenly and blends well." MAC eyeshadows run the gamut from total failures to long-time, cult-favorite staples. In general, the permanent line has been more consistent in performance--and higher performance at that--compared to limited edition launches, but it can really depend.
The Matte finish tends to have a firmer press and a bit of thinness compared to other matte formulas on the market, so MAC matte eyeshadows tend to build up better and have better wear-time without fallout as they're not powdery at all. Some of the newer matte finish shades have had a more velvety quality to them that gives them a softer feel but aren't powdery; these have been easier to blend and are often more pigmented in one layer.
The Lustre finish is designed to have sheerer pigmentation, and it often has more sheer to medium coverage with a drier, dustier consistency that can be hard to apply with a dry brush. Lustre finish shades can suffer from fallout during application, too. They are the old school version of an eyeshadow "topper." I would recommend applying with a fingertip or applying with a dampened brush to get smoother, more even coverage and minimize fallout.
The Satin finish is few and far in-between, but it is softer and more yielding than the Matte finish but performs similarly. They tend to have very low sheen but are quite blendable with medium to opaque coverage. It can be easy to mix the finish up with the Velvet finish, which has more of a sparkle-over-matte effect but are more powdery than the true Matte finish.
The Frost finish is more firmly-pressed into the pan but doesn't have fallout, is often pigmented, and blends out well enough. They can sometimes be a little drier to the touch depending on how much shimmer is in the shade. The Veluxe Pearl finish is one of the creamier takes within the range, and newer shades released in the finish tend to have more moderate, silicone-like slip. I've found that Veluxe Pearl finish shades tend to have more semi-opaque pigmentation and are more consistent in performance than some of the other finishes.
One thing I've found with MAC eyeshadows is that they tend to last longer without primer than the average brand (eight hours). While some eyeshadow shades don't swatch well, they often apply better in practice--as in on the eyes!--than just swatched on the skin. They can be quite hit or miss, and they have inconsistencies between releases (see Carbon and its sordid review history!).
Browse all of our MAC Eyeshadow swatches.
A very warm toned palette, that was much better quality than the Library one we saw yesterday. The shades are quite cohesive and gradations of the popular orangey, brown and reds tones.
Overall I would say that this is a workable palette, but not for me.
Amber Lights was my favourite shade and your eye looks are beautiful Christine.
My oh my, this is a good palette for red themed or just warmer toned eye looks. As much as I love my other palettes that go into this territory, this one is super appealing to me because of the red shimmers. I think I could still (hopefully) talk myself out of getting it. Maybe.
Nice to see something reasonably consistent from Mac, with no absolute complete failures. Looks like this one might be good value, if you are in the market for these types of colours.
I love this one and this is permanent yaayy.
Given the color of my eyes, this palette would probably be great on me, but I already have almost all these colors in other palettes or singles. BTW, it’s really good of you to point out that some of the colors applied better than they swatched — I feel like we rely too much on first impression swatches anymore, and it’s not terribly fair to the companies.
What is the name of the lipstick you are wearing/ It is beautiful.
https://www.temptalia.com/look/a-warm-golden-neutral-eye-red-lip-featuring-mac-flame-boyant/
I don’t need another warm-themed palette, but I have to admit that this one is really pretty.
Are the pans on this glued in? I know some of the premise palettes had this “feature”?
On the other hand, I’m so excited they brought back Samoa silk for this… it was my favorite eyeshadow from the old YouTube days. I may need this palette, if the pans aren’t all glued in.
As far as I can tell, they are glued in. I tried to use tweezers to pull them out, but I could barely get a grip on them at all.
I couldn’t agree more on Rule with you: firmly pressed but easy to pick-up without fallout; great pigmentation and coverage; easy to blend and work it. I had mine in an single eyeshadow. I wish that other MAC Mattes would perform this well… because Rule (and oranges in general) doesn’t look good on me. I look sick, almost like I didn’t sleep for days.
It is funny that MAC has some truly standout mattes in their range… and yet they’re not all like that, lol! I wish they’d bring back the Matte2 formula!