MAC Tropic Cool Times Nine Eyeshadow Palette Review, Photos, Swatches
Tropic Cool Times Nine
MAC Tropic Cool Times Nine Eyeshadow Palette ($32.00 for 0.18 oz.) includes nine, dime-sized eyeshadows in an assortment of yellow, green, and blue. It’s a bolder, brighter set of shades, but it also had a very smoldering edge with the deeper blue and bluish-gray inclusions. As you might expect, the yellowy shades need a primer to look as they do in the pan, but I also had some trouble with two of the darker blues.
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Tropic Cool Times Nine
LELimited Edition. $32.00.
Fresh Blade
Fresh Blade is a pale, muted gold with subtle, war undertones and a frosted finish. The consistency was soft, smooth, and bendable–not at all dry or firm in the pan. It applied with rich, opaque color coverage that lasted for eight hours on me.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Laura Mercier Seashell (P, $29.00) is darker (95% similar).
- Becca Moonstone (LE, ) is more shimmery (95% similar).
- MAC Nylon (P, $17.00) is lighter (95% similar).
- NARS Newbury Street (DC, $25.00) is more shimmery, lighter (95% similar).
- Becca Chardonnay (LE, ) is cooler (95% similar).
- Sydney Grace Hidden Treasure (P, $6.25) is darker, cooler (95% similar).
- LORAC Unlocked (PiP, $19.00) is brighter (95% similar).
- Coloured Raine Glisten (DC, $6.99) is more shimmery (95% similar).
- Estee Lauder Blonde Gold (LE, $45.00) is more shimmery (95% similar).
- Kevyn Aucoin Iced Gold (LE, ) 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
Fresh Blade
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
Bright-Sided
Bright-Sided is a medium yellow with warm undertones and a satin finish. It had medium pigmentation, which was somewhat buildable to semi-opaque coverage but was hard to achieve full, even coverage without the use of primer or a stronger base underneath it. The consistency was soft, a little dusty, and thinner. It wore well for seven hours on me.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- MAC Bright Yellow (DC, $17.00) is less shimmery, brighter (90% similar).
- ColourPop Juicer (LE, $6.00) is darker, brighter (90% similar).
- MAC Memories of Space (P, $17.00) is lighter (90% similar).
- MAC Royal Woo (LE, $17.00) is less shimmery, brighter (90% similar).
- ColourPop Stinger (PiP, $4.50) is less shimmery, lighter, warmer (90% similar).
- MAC Chrome Yellow (P, $17.00) is less shimmery, brighter (90% similar).
- Sleek MakeUP Acid #3 (PiP, $9.99) is less shimmery (90% similar).
- Inglot #370 (P, $6.00) is less shimmery, darker (90% similar).
- Viseart Bright Editorial #7 (PiP, ) is darker (90% similar).
- NARS Goldfinger (P, $19.00) is more 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
Bright-Sided
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
Lemon Rush
Lemon Rush is a bright, green-tinged yellow with warm undertones and a matte finish. It was like a really, really yellow-leaning chartreuse, but on the lid, I could barely tell there was a green-tint! The consistency was soft without being too dusty or powdery, though it was thinner and harder to build up coverage without a primer or base. I noticed fading after seven hours of wear.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Sephora Jeffery (LE, ) is darker (95% similar).
- Huda Beauty Sapphire #7 (LE, ) is more shimmery, lighter (95% similar).
- Anastasia A1 (Norvina Mini Vol. 2) (LE, $12.00) is lighter, cooler (95% similar).
- Anastasia Sphere (LE, $12.00) is lighter (95% similar).
- Sephora Sense (PiP, ) is lighter (90% similar).
- NARS Celebrate (P, $24.00) is darker (90% similar).
- MAC Bowlarama (LE, $17.00) is darker, cooler (90% similar).
- MAC Bitter (DC, $17.00) is darker (90% similar).
- Melt Cosmetics Shot Gun (LE, ) is darker (90% similar).
- MAC Lisa's Spikes (LE, $17.00) is more shimmery, darker, 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
Lemon Rush
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
Lady Grey
Lady Grey is a muted, light sage green with subtle, warm undertones and a pearly sheen. It had good pigmentation, which was buildable to opaque coverage with a second layer. The eyeshadow was firmer in the pan but remained blendable when I used it on the lid. The color wore nicely for seven and a half hours.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Chanel Delicatesse #1 (LE, ) is more shimmery (95% similar).
- Disney by Sephora Dinglehopper (LE, ) is lighter, brighter (90% similar).
- MAC In the Meadow #3 (LE, $21.00) is more shimmery, warmer (90% similar).
- Smashbox Zoom (LE, ) is lighter, warmer (90% similar).
- NARS Delphes #3 (DC, $25.00) is darker (90% similar).
- Dior Contraste Horizon #1 (LE, ) is more shimmery, lighter (90% similar).
- Too Faced Darling (PiP, ) is more shimmery, lighter (90% similar).
- Chanel Olivine (137) (LE, $34.00) is darker (90% similar).
- YSL Avant Garde #5 (PiP, ) is more shimmery, lighter (90% similar).
- Lancome Steel (LE, $19.00) is darker (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
Lady Grey
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
Neoprene Green
Neoprene Green is a medium-dark emerald green with cooler undertones and a pearly sheen. The color payoff was good, but the texture was crumbly and drier to the touch; if I pressed and buffed the color onto the lid, it appeared smooth and even, but there was a chunkiness present that I’ve seen more often with red-hued shades. The color stayed on for eight hours and stained slightly.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- MAC Emerald Power (LE, $22.00) is more shimmery (95% similar).
- NARS Misfit #2 (DC, $25.00) is darker (90% similar).
- Make Up For Ever ME304 Emerald (DC, $21.00) is more shimmery (90% similar).
- Sugarpill Midori (P, $13.00) is warmer (90% similar).
- KVD Beauty Iggy (DC, $21.00) is more shimmery, lighter (90% similar).
- Sydney Grace Cane Fields (PiP, $6.25) is more shimmery, darker (90% similar).
- MAC New Crop (P, $17.00) is more shimmery (95% similar).
- Urban Decay Grasshopper (LE, $19.00) is more shimmery, lighter, brighter (85% similar).
- Sephora Picnic in the Park (07) (DC, $10.00) is warmer (90% similar).
- ColourPop Superzoom (P, $4.50) is more shimmery, darker, more muted (80% 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.
Neoprene Green
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
She's a Model
She’s a Model is a blackened navy blue with flecks of lighter blue sparkle. It had semi-opaque pigmentation paired with a dusty, chunky texture where the shimmer and sparkle seemed to come away from the base powder, which made it messy to use and hard to blend out. The color faded after seven hours of wear.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Marc Jacobs Beauty Pea-cocky (LE, ) is less shimmery, lighter (95% similar).
- YSL Fetiche #5 (LE, ) is lighter (95% similar).
- Chanel Road Movie #3 (PiP, ) is less shimmery (95% similar).
- Chanel Fascination #4 (PiP, ) is cooler (90% similar).
- ColourPop Burnout (LE, $4.50) is less shimmery (90% similar).
- MAC Indigogo (LE, $17.00) is lighter, brighter (90% similar).
- Make Up For Ever I300 Pine Green (DC, $21.00) is more shimmery, lighter (90% similar).
- Too Faced Blue Satin Sashes (LE, $16.00) is less shimmery (90% similar).
- Chanel Blurry Blue #3 (PiP, ) is less shimmery, lighter, cooler (85% similar).
- Melt Cosmetics Fixated (PiP, ) is lighter, cooler (85% 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
She's a Model
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
Liquid Sky
Liquid Sky is a bright, medium blue with cool undertones and a matte finish. The color payoff was great–just a touch shy of opaque coverage–and had a soft, finely-milled texture that was soft enough to remain blendable but had enough substance to it that it did not sheer out on the lid and maintained its vibrancy once applied. It wore well for eight hours on me.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Viseart Azure (Bright Editorial #12) (P, ) is darker (95% similar).
- Viseart Periwinkle (Bright Editorial #8) (P, ) is lighter (95% similar).
- ColourPop Peace (LE, $4.50) is darker (95% similar).
- ColourPop Ping Pong (PiP, $4.50) is darker (90% similar).
- Milani Olympian Blue (P, $5.99) is darker, brighter (90% similar).
- ColourPop Backstage (P, $4.50) is darker, cooler (90% similar).
- MAC Blue Candy (LE, $17.00) is lighter (90% similar).
- Glaminatrix Midnight (P, $7.30) is more muted (90% similar).
- Terra Moons Neptune's Waves (P, $6.00) is lighter, brighter, cooler (90% similar).
- KVD Beauty Synth (LE, ) is 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.
Liquid Sky
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
Blue Envy
Blue Envy is a bright, medium-dark cobalt blue with strong, cool undertones (almost leans purple) with a soft, forsted sheen. It had opaque color coverage that went on smoothly and evenly without the aid of primer. The consistency was firmer but I had no trouble blending out the eyeshadow on my lid. It stayed on well for eight hours before fading noticeably.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Sephora Aja (LE, ) is warmer (95% similar).
- NARS Cressida (P, $29.00) is darker (95% similar).
- NABLA Cosmetics Eternity (P, $8.00) is darker, warmer (95% similar).
- ColourPop Just One Kiss (LE, $4.50) is more shimmery (95% similar).
- ColourPop Kimono (LE, $6.00) is lighter (95% similar).
- Anastasia Azure (LE, $12.00) is less shimmery (95% similar).
- Anastasia Star Cobalt (P, $12.00) is more shimmery (95% similar).
- Dior Party in Colours #5 (LE, ) is lighter, brighter (95% similar).
- Urban Decay Evidence (DC, $19.00) is darker (95% similar).
- Sephora Diving in Australia (DC, $10.00) is darker (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
Blue Envy
LELimited Edition. $17.00.
Grey Horizon
Grey Horizon is a muted, bluish black with cool undertones and a matte finish. It had semi-opaque, buildable coverage, while the eyeshadow had a soft, dusty texture that sheered out a bit on the lid. Blending and diffusing the edges took some extra effort, but it was manageable, despite the richness of the color. It wore for just over eight hours on me.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- NARS Old Church Street (Right) (LE, ) is lighter (95% similar).
- LORAC Dark Navy (LE, $19.00) is darker, more muted (90% similar).
- bareMinerals Lagoon (LE, $14.00) is cooler (90% similar).
- Guerlain Beaugrenelle #6 (PiP, ) is cooler (90% similar).
- Viseart Foret (PiP, ) is brighter, cooler (85% similar).
- Natasha Denona Smoke (65V) (PiP, $29.00) is lighter (80% similar).
- Make Up For Ever M240 Prussian Blue (DC, $21.00) is lighter (80% similar).
- Make Up For Ever S226 Abyssal Blue (DC, $21.00) is lighter, cooler (80% similar).
- Sydney Grace Reaching Zenith (Deep) (PiP, $5.25) is lighter, cooler (80% similar).
- Chanel Quintessence #9 (LE, ) is more shimmery, lighter (80% 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.
The shadows look hit or miss, but your eye look, WOW!!!
Aw, thanks Katherine!
Stares longingly….. I promised myself to not buy LE anymore…
Stay strong! xo
I love this palette!
Yay!
Oh my, I do need this, I think! Although I could probably get a very similar look using Iggy, MAC Savant, and I I do have Fresh Blade. But that would require working with several different palettes plus at least one single, so this certainl would be far more convenient.
Thank goodness MAC dropped pricing on their quads then 😉
I really like the colors of the Mac palettes you’ve reviewed recently.
Out of curiosity- what’s your favorite colored eyeshadow palette, other than viseart? I’ve been dying for some colors, but can’t shell out $80 for a palette right now.
I like UD’s Afterdark, though that’s not super cheap or anything. BH Foil Eyes is a great palette and quite affordable, though they are all frost/metallic finishes. Alternatively, BUXOM has it so you can pick any six for $40!
This is a pretty good coolish toned palette from MAC – the range of blue shades is really great and most of them have rated well – it’s a shame that She’s A Model was not better as it is a lovely colour. I am not sure whether MAC needed two bright yellows, one would have been enough – perhaps a peachy shade would have been better. All in all a good solid palette. A lovely eye look Christine.
Thank you, Genevieve! 🙂
I agree – She’s a Model looks SO lovely in the pan but most of us don’t buy products that don’t perform well just so we can look at them in the pan (well, most of the time, anyway! I have fallen victim to that once or twice!)
Wow gorgeous eye look Christine! I like this palette too, lol
Love your look!!
This is quite an easy pass. I rarely use blue, and I only really, really liked two of the shades in the palette, Lady Grey and Blue Envy. I know, I said I rarely use blue, but Blue Envy is so gorgeous.
Love the look you created here. I do really like this color combination and wish that the quality was a little better. Perhaps another brand will copy it, instead of all those endless warm neutral palettes. Wish Viseart would. I could probably deal with the fact that She’s a Model isn’t so great, but it’s a shame about Grey Horizon as that would be the liner shade. Also though the yellows have some issues, they could be used to sort of blend into the blues to make some subtle greenish blueish looks– that is if the the shades blend well together.
Curious about your thoughts on that, Christine. It does remind me a bit of the Denona blue-purple palette, which I have, but this palette is not wasting palette space on all those browns, so I could see where this would be good for some brighter spring time looks.
Too many misses for me but the look you did was really great.
Kind of reminds me of the Colour Added palette! I’m not sure I can pull off those shades though.
I wish they would’ve brought back colors like Cool Heat for this particular palette.. I do love these colors, and lean towards similar ones. Thank you for the lovely swatches!