Natasha Denona Gold Eyeshadow Palette Review & Swatches
Gold
Natasha Denona Gold 15-Pan Eyeshadow Palette ($129.00 for 1.20 oz.) is a new, permanent palette that features an assortment of gold-inspired shades. The palette is divided into cooler, warmer, and more neutral undertones, though I’d still say it’s a very warm-toned, yellow-toned palette overall. The “coolness” really comes in through the two teal shades in the palette, and then two of the “gold” shimmers have green leanings. I think that the depths and undertones of the mattes make it more diverse in practice than it may initially appear at a glance, but I know I would have loved to see a bit more diversity or more inclusion of gold, as it’s more bronze/brown to me. I’d love to have some cooler or olive-toned golds (almost like antique pewter or tarnished gold or platinum) in the palette. The majority of the eyeshadows performed as marketed–pigmented, blendable, and long-wearing–though there are two glittery shades that are better as layering/top coat type shades (intentionally so) which may not be everyone’s cup of tea.
Ingredients
Looks Using this Product
Gold
PPermanent. $129.00.
Lime Chrome
Lime Chrome is a bright, medium gold with a gold-to-green metallic shift. It had opaque pigmentation with a soft, slightly loosely-pressed texture that was blendable and easy to work with without having to use a dampened brush to get an intense, brightening effect out of it. I found that it shifted green noticeably (without contorting myself) but it was still gold-to-green so it didn’t just appear green all the time either. It wore well for eight and a half hours on me before creasing very faintly.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Moira Saturn (P, $7.50) is less shimmery, darker (95% similar).
- Ciate Haze (PiP, ) is less shimmery, lighter (90% similar).
- Touch in Sol Sun Aurora (4) (P, $18.00) is lighter, warmer (90% similar).
- Clionadh Burnt Sienna (P, $15.00) is less shimmery, darker (85% similar).
- Urban Decay Sideline (DC, $19.00) is less shimmery, lighter, warmer (85% similar).
- ColourPop IRL (LE, $6.00) is less shimmery, cooler (85% similar).
- Clionadh Chalice (P, $12.50) is less shimmery, darker, cooler (85% similar).
- Isamaya Heat (PiP, ) is less shimmery, cooler (85% similar).
- Natasha Denona Burnt Terracotta/Green (1) (P, $28.00) is darker, warmer (85% similar).
- Natasha Denona Yama (387DC) (PiP, $29.00) is darker, cooler (85% similar).
Formula Overview
$29.00/0.08 oz. - $362.50 Per Ounce
The majority of the brand's eyeshadows are quite pigmented, blendable, and long-wearing. The eyeshadows have improved over time, particularly with respect to longevity (without a primer). The original formula often creased on me within seven to eight hours, whereas the more current formula wears eight to nine hours with fading (instead of full-on creasing). The more matte finishes tend to be a bit more velvety, substantial, and less dry/powdery compared to prior iterations.
The metallic finish is often the creamiest, slightly denser in feel, but has excellent pigmentation, adhesion, and blendability. The sparkling shades can have some fallout, depending on how they're applied and how sparkly they are, so they sometimes work better with fingertips or a dampened brush; they can also run sheerer compared to other finishes.
Cream-Powders are the more unique formulation and tend to have firmer, almost stiff, consistencies and more semi-opaque, watercolor-esque coverage. They are longer-wearing, but they can take a few uses to learn how to use. This formula has also improved compared to when it first debuted--it is a bit more yielding now.
Browse all of our Natasha Denona Duo-Chrome Eyeshadow swatches.
Looks Using this Product
Lime Chrome
PiPPermanent in Palette. $29.00.
Python
Python is a deep, bluish-teal with subtle, cool undertones and a matte finish. The pigmentation was opaque in a single layer, while the texture was slightly firmer and almost had a touch of slip to it–it felt a little more like a satin-matte powder-cream hybrid in that sense. While it was denser and firmer, it wasn’t stiff, so I was able to pick up product with my dry brush but did find it took a bit more effort (or a denser/stiffer brush) to diffuse the edges. This shade stayed on well for nine hours and left a faint stain behind.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- NYX Shameless (P, $4.50) is warmer (95% similar).
- Anastasia Axis (DC, $12.00) is lighter (90% similar).
- Sydney Grace Thrilled (P, $5.25) is more shimmery, lighter, warmer (90% similar).
- Melt Cosmetics Duelo (PiP, ) is warmer (95% similar).
- ColourPop Vibra (LE, $4.50) is darker (90% similar).
- Chanel Blurry Blue #3 (PiP, ) is warmer (90% similar).
- ColourPop Burnout (LE, $4.50) is more shimmery, more muted (90% similar).
- ColourPop Sporty (PiP, $4.50) is lighter, cooler (90% similar).
- Melt Cosmetics Space Queen (LE, ) is lighter, warmer, less glossy (90% similar).
- Giorgio Armani Scarab (37) (P, $30.00) is more shimmery, lighter, warmer (90% similar).
Formula Overview
-
The majority of the brand's eyeshadows are quite pigmented, blendable, and long-wearing. The eyeshadows have improved over time, particularly with respect to longevity (without a primer). The original formula often creased on me within seven to eight hours, whereas the more current formula wears eight to nine hours with fading (instead of full-on creasing). The more matte finishes tend to be a bit more velvety, substantial, and less dry/powdery compared to prior iterations.
The metallic finish is often the creamiest, slightly denser in feel, but has excellent pigmentation, adhesion, and blendability. The sparkling shades can have some fallout, depending on how they're applied and how sparkly they are, so they sometimes work better with fingertips or a dampened brush; they can also run sheerer compared to other finishes.
Cream-Powders are the more unique formulation and tend to have firmer, almost stiff, consistencies and more semi-opaque, watercolor-esque coverage. They are longer-wearing, but they can take a few uses to learn how to use. This formula has also improved compared to when it first debuted--it is a bit more yielding now.
Browse all of our Natasha Denona Creamy Matte Eye Shadow swatches.
Looks Using this Product
Python
PiPPermanent in Palette.
Sparks
Sparks is a pale, white gold with warmer undertones and a glittery finish. It seemed to have more of a transparent base with lots and lots of flecks of finer and larger glitter/sparkle. The consistency felt more loosely-pressed and textured based on the larger sparkles and glitters in it. The eyeshadow had medium to semi-opaque “coverage” from the sparkles, which applied best with fingertips or pressed on with a flat, synthetic brush. It is part of the Sparkling finish family, which is typically designed to be sheerer/more of a “top coat” or layering shade. I didn’t get much fallout during the application process, but there was slight fallout over the eight and a half hours it lasted for.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- NABLA Cosmetics Honey Drip (PiP, ) is warmer (95% similar).
- Too Faced Frostbite Me (LE, $16.00) is darker, cooler (95% similar).
- UOMA Beauty Ranavalona (LE, ) is darker (95% similar).
- NABLA Cosmetics Lucid Dream (PiP, ) is less shimmery, darker, warmer (95% similar).
- Moira Quartz (P, $7.50) is darker (95% similar).
- Fenty Beauty Oh-Zone (LE, ) is more shimmery (95% similar).
- MAC It's About Shine (P, $18.00) is darker (95% similar).
- ColourPop The Maiden (LE, $6.00) is cooler (90% similar).
- Isamaya Flesh (PiP, ) is darker, cooler (90% similar).
- Anastasia A1 (Norvina Vol. 4) (LE, $12.00) is darker, cooler (90% similar).
Formula Overview
-
The majority of the brand's eyeshadows are quite pigmented, blendable, and long-wearing. The eyeshadows have improved over time, particularly with respect to longevity (without a primer). The original formula often creased on me within seven to eight hours, whereas the more current formula wears eight to nine hours with fading (instead of full-on creasing). The more matte finishes tend to be a bit more velvety, substantial, and less dry/powdery compared to prior iterations.
The metallic finish is often the creamiest, slightly denser in feel, but has excellent pigmentation, adhesion, and blendability. The sparkling shades can have some fallout, depending on how they're applied and how sparkly they are, so they sometimes work better with fingertips or a dampened brush; they can also run sheerer compared to other finishes.
Cream-Powders are the more unique formulation and tend to have firmer, almost stiff, consistencies and more semi-opaque, watercolor-esque coverage. They are longer-wearing, but they can take a few uses to learn how to use. This formula has also improved compared to when it first debuted--it is a bit more yielding now.
Browse all of our Natasha Denona Crystal Eye Shadow swatches.
Looks Using this Product
Sparks
PiPPermanent in Palette.
Aria
Aria is a soft brown with warmer undertones and a matte finish. The eyeshadow felt soft, velvety, and was blendable on my lid with very little effort. It had rich color payoff that adhered evenly to bare skin and wore well for eight and a half hours on me before fading noticeably.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Viseart Warm Mattes #7 (PiP, ) is lighter (95% similar).
- Viseart Praline (PiP, ) is darker (95% similar).
- Anastasia HOE (LE, $12.00) is darker, cooler (95% similar).
- Huda Beauty Smokey #2 (PiP, ) is cooler (95% similar).
- ColourPop Pink Slip (LE, $4.50) is lighter, warmer (95% similar).
- Bad Habit Blasphemy (PiP, ) is cooler (95% similar).
- ColourPop Covet (PiP, $4.50) is darker, cooler (90% similar).
- Wet 'n' Wild Dragon Scales #1 (LE, ) is lighter, cooler (90% similar).
- Lisa Eldridge Raw Sienna (P, $16.00) is lighter, warmer (90% similar).
- NYX Maybe Later (P, $4.50) is darker, warmer (90% similar).
Formula Overview
-
The majority of the brand's eyeshadows are quite pigmented, blendable, and long-wearing. The eyeshadows have improved over time, particularly with respect to longevity (without a primer). The original formula often creased on me within seven to eight hours, whereas the more current formula wears eight to nine hours with fading (instead of full-on creasing). The more matte finishes tend to be a bit more velvety, substantial, and less dry/powdery compared to prior iterations.
The metallic finish is often the creamiest, slightly denser in feel, but has excellent pigmentation, adhesion, and blendability. The sparkling shades can have some fallout, depending on how they're applied and how sparkly they are, so they sometimes work better with fingertips or a dampened brush; they can also run sheerer compared to other finishes.
Cream-Powders are the more unique formulation and tend to have firmer, almost stiff, consistencies and more semi-opaque, watercolor-esque coverage. They are longer-wearing, but they can take a few uses to learn how to use. This formula has also improved compared to when it first debuted--it is a bit more yielding now.
Browse all of our Natasha Denona Creamy Matte Eye Shadow swatches.
Aria
PiPPermanent in Palette.
Cava
Cava is a light-medium, golden copper with flecks of copper and gold sparkle. It had a semi-sheer base with more medium to semi-opaque “coverage” from the shimmer and sparkle, and it was listed as a Sparkling finish, which tends to be sheer (intentionally). The consistency felt wetter with more slip but I could feel how much glitter was in it, so it didn’t feel smooth to the touch (but not gritty or clumpy). This shade had finer shimmer and micro-sparkle, which helped it apply better to the lid with a dry brush, though fingertips and dampened brushes yielded more coverage and smoother application. It stayed on nicely for eight and a half hours with slight fallout over time.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Sephora Demanding (31) (P, $9.00) is more shimmery, cooler (95% similar).
- Natasha Denona Spontaneous (450M) (PiP, $29.00) is more shimmery, darker (95% similar).
- ColourPop Diego (PiP, $4.50) is darker (90% similar).
- Make Up For Ever ME700 Amber (DC, $21.00) is cooler (90% similar).
- Charlotte Tilbury Celestial Eyes (Pop) (LE, ) is more shimmery, darker, cooler (90% similar).
- Too Faced Bonjour (LE, $16.00) is more pigmented (90% similar).
- ColourPop Save It For Later (P, $4.50) is darker, more pigmented, cooler (90% similar).
- Charlotte Tilbury Copper Charge #1 (PiP, ) is darker, cooler (90% similar).
- Too Faced Honey Dip (LE, $16.00) is less shimmery, lighter (90% similar).
- Pat McGrath Bronze Gold 003 (LE, $25.00) is more shimmery, lighter, cooler (90% similar).
Formula Overview
-
The majority of the brand's eyeshadows are quite pigmented, blendable, and long-wearing. The eyeshadows have improved over time, particularly with respect to longevity (without a primer). The original formula often creased on me within seven to eight hours, whereas the more current formula wears eight to nine hours with fading (instead of full-on creasing). The more matte finishes tend to be a bit more velvety, substantial, and less dry/powdery compared to prior iterations.
The metallic finish is often the creamiest, slightly denser in feel, but has excellent pigmentation, adhesion, and blendability. The sparkling shades can have some fallout, depending on how they're applied and how sparkly they are, so they sometimes work better with fingertips or a dampened brush; they can also run sheerer compared to other finishes.
Cream-Powders are the more unique formulation and tend to have firmer, almost stiff, consistencies and more semi-opaque, watercolor-esque coverage. They are longer-wearing, but they can take a few uses to learn how to use. This formula has also improved compared to when it first debuted--it is a bit more yielding now.
Browse all of our Natasha Denona Crystal Eye Shadow swatches.
Looks Using this Product
Cava
PiPPermanent in Palette.
Aurora
Aurora is a blackened teal with fine, multi-colored pearl and larger flecks of sparkle. It had medium coverage but appeared darker and less blue/teal applied with a dry brush. The consistency felt drier and more firmly-pressed in the pan, which I think contributed to the color when applied. It was easier to work with and appeared a bit truer-to-color (but never quite as bright/teal as it appeared in the pan) if I used a dampened brush. The drier texture also made this shade harder to diffuse and blend out along the edges. It lasted well for eight hours but had slight fallout over time.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Linda Hallberg Cosmetics Orphic (PiP, ) is more shimmery, cooler (90% similar).
- Anastasia Throne (LE, $12.00) is darker, cooler (85% similar).
- Marc Jacobs Beauty For Once (PiP, ) is more shimmery, darker, cooler (85% similar).
- Anastasia Mermaid (P, $12.00) is cooler (85% similar).
- NARS Hydra (LE, $29.00) is more shimmery, lighter, warmer (85% similar).
- The Estee Edit Wavy (LE, ) is more shimmery, darker, cooler (85% similar).
- Viseart Shameless (PiP, ) is more shimmery, lighter, cooler (85% similar).
- Viseart Dark Matter (GPV2 #18) (LE, ) is less shimmery, darker, cooler (90% similar).
- Makeup Geek Autumn Breeze (DC, $6.00) is more shimmery, lighter, cooler (80% similar).
- Dior Electrify #5 (PiP, ) is darker (80% similar).
Formula Overview
-
The majority of the brand's eyeshadows are quite pigmented, blendable, and long-wearing. The eyeshadows have improved over time, particularly with respect to longevity (without a primer). The original formula often creased on me within seven to eight hours, whereas the more current formula wears eight to nine hours with fading (instead of full-on creasing). The more matte finishes tend to be a bit more velvety, substantial, and less dry/powdery compared to prior iterations.
The metallic finish is often the creamiest, slightly denser in feel, but has excellent pigmentation, adhesion, and blendability. The sparkling shades can have some fallout, depending on how they're applied and how sparkly they are, so they sometimes work better with fingertips or a dampened brush; they can also run sheerer compared to other finishes.
Cream-Powders are the more unique formulation and tend to have firmer, almost stiff, consistencies and more semi-opaque, watercolor-esque coverage. They are longer-wearing, but they can take a few uses to learn how to use. This formula has also improved compared to when it first debuted--it is a bit more yielding now.
Browse all of our Natasha Denona Crystal Eye Shadow swatches.
Looks Using this Product
Aurora
PiPPermanent in Palette.
Dijon
Dijon is a deep, mustard yellow with warm undertones and a matte finish. It was so warm and yellow that it almost approached olive-green tones to my eye. The consistency was velvety and soft with a smidgen of powderiness in the pan, but the eyeshadow applied with rich, opaque pigmentation to bare skin and blended out with ease. It wore well for eight and a half hours on me before it started to fade noticeably.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Melt Cosmetics Mochi (LE, ) is cooler (95% similar).
- Sydney Grace Haystack (P, $5.25) is lighter, warmer (85% similar).
- Smashbox Ochre (P, $22.00) is lighter (85% similar).
- ColourPop Rule the Roost (LE, $4.50) is warmer (90% similar).
- MAC Lady Fingers (LE, $17.00) is lighter, warmer (90% similar).
- Coloured Raine Daisy (LE, $6.99) is warmer (85% similar).
- ColourPop Cooler (LE, $4.50) is lighter, warmer (85% similar).
- Anastasia Cabana (LE, $12.00) is lighter, warmer (85% similar).
- Anastasia Edge (DC, $12.00) is lighter, warmer (90% similar).
- ColourPop Tiki (P, $4.50) is more shimmery, lighter, warmer (85% similar).
Formula Overview
-
The majority of the brand's eyeshadows are quite pigmented, blendable, and long-wearing. The eyeshadows have improved over time, particularly with respect to longevity (without a primer). The original formula often creased on me within seven to eight hours, whereas the more current formula wears eight to nine hours with fading (instead of full-on creasing). The more matte finishes tend to be a bit more velvety, substantial, and less dry/powdery compared to prior iterations.
The metallic finish is often the creamiest, slightly denser in feel, but has excellent pigmentation, adhesion, and blendability. The sparkling shades can have some fallout, depending on how they're applied and how sparkly they are, so they sometimes work better with fingertips or a dampened brush; they can also run sheerer compared to other finishes.
Cream-Powders are the more unique formulation and tend to have firmer, almost stiff, consistencies and more semi-opaque, watercolor-esque coverage. They are longer-wearing, but they can take a few uses to learn how to use. This formula has also improved compared to when it first debuted--it is a bit more yielding now.
Browse all of our Natasha Denona Creamy Matte Eye Shadow swatches.
Looks Using this Product
Dijon
PiPPermanent in Palette.
Oro
Oro is a rich, deep gold with warm, orange undertones and a sparkling, metallic finish. The eyeshadow yielded opaque pigmentation in a single layer–a little went a long way, you definitely didn’t need as much as a typical eyeshadow, even ones that are pigmented!–with a smooth, lightly creamy texture that was dense without being too thick. It applied evenly to bare skin and blended out easily along the edges. This shade stayed on nicely for eight and a half hours on me before creasing very faintly.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Sephora Magnetic (P, $10.00) is less shimmery (95% similar).
- Sydney Grace Exquisite Opulence (P, $6.25) is lighter (95% similar).
- MAC Gold Metalist (LE, $21.00) is lighter (90% similar).
- ColourPop Foxes (P, $9.00) is darker, brighter (90% similar).
- ColourPop Rainbow Connection (LE, $6.00) is less shimmery, darker (90% similar).
- ColourPop Goals (LE, $4.50) is lighter (90% similar).
- Pat McGrath Liquid Sun (LE, $25.00) is less shimmery, lighter (90% similar).
- Urban Decay Sinful (LE, $19.00) is lighter (90% similar).
- Too Faced Warm and Toasty (LE, $16.00) is lighter (90% similar).
- Pat McGrath Enraptured (DC, $25.00) is darker, more muted, cooler (90% similar).
Formula Overview
$29.00/0.08 oz. - $362.50 Per Ounce
The majority of the brand's eyeshadows are quite pigmented, blendable, and long-wearing. The eyeshadows have improved over time, particularly with respect to longevity (without a primer). The original formula often creased on me within seven to eight hours, whereas the more current formula wears eight to nine hours with fading (instead of full-on creasing). The more matte finishes tend to be a bit more velvety, substantial, and less dry/powdery compared to prior iterations.
The metallic finish is often the creamiest, slightly denser in feel, but has excellent pigmentation, adhesion, and blendability. The sparkling shades can have some fallout, depending on how they're applied and how sparkly they are, so they sometimes work better with fingertips or a dampened brush; they can also run sheerer compared to other finishes.
Cream-Powders are the more unique formulation and tend to have firmer, almost stiff, consistencies and more semi-opaque, watercolor-esque coverage. They are longer-wearing, but they can take a few uses to learn how to use. This formula has also improved compared to when it first debuted--it is a bit more yielding now.
Browse all of our Natasha Denona Metallic Eye Shadow swatches.
Looks Using this Product
Oro
PiPPermanent in Palette. $29.00.
Log (Igneous)
Log (Igenous) is a deep brown with neutral-to-warm undertones and a matte finish. It had opaque color coverage that adhered evenly to bare skin and blended out with little effort. The texture was soft, smooth, and blendable without being powdery nor too firmly-pressed in the pan. I didn’t have any trouble applying less and building up coverage for those who prefer to build up their pigmentation. It lasted well for eight hours on me before I noticed slight fading.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Natasha Denona Igneous (133CM) (PiP, ) is cooler (90% similar).
- Pretty Vulgar Swoop (PiP, ) is lighter, cooler (95% similar).
- ColourPop Damselfly (LE, $4.50) is cooler (95% similar).
- MAC Cross-Cultural (LE, $17.00) is lighter, warmer (95% similar).
- ColourPop Bedrock (LE, $4.50) is lighter, warmer (95% similar).
- Anastasia Rich Brown (P, $12.00) is warmer (95% similar).
- Inglot #363 (P, $6.00) is cooler (90% similar).
- Huda Beauty Khaki Haze #4 (PiP, ) is lighter, cooler (90% similar).
- Pretty Vulgar Victory (PiP, ) is lighter, warmer (90% similar).
- Benefit Quick, Look Busy (P, $20.00) is lighter, warmer (90% similar).
Formula Overview
-
The majority of the brand's eyeshadows are quite pigmented, blendable, and long-wearing. The eyeshadows have improved over time, particularly with respect to longevity (without a primer). The original formula often creased on me within seven to eight hours, whereas the more current formula wears eight to nine hours with fading (instead of full-on creasing). The more matte finishes tend to be a bit more velvety, substantial, and less dry/powdery compared to prior iterations.
The metallic finish is often the creamiest, slightly denser in feel, but has excellent pigmentation, adhesion, and blendability. The sparkling shades can have some fallout, depending on how they're applied and how sparkly they are, so they sometimes work better with fingertips or a dampened brush; they can also run sheerer compared to other finishes.
Cream-Powders are the more unique formulation and tend to have firmer, almost stiff, consistencies and more semi-opaque, watercolor-esque coverage. They are longer-wearing, but they can take a few uses to learn how to use. This formula has also improved compared to when it first debuted--it is a bit more yielding now.
Browse all of our Natasha Denona Creamy Matte Eye Shadow swatches.
Log (Igneous)
PiPPermanent in Palette.
Varis
Varis is a rich bronze with warm, golden overtones and reddish undertones paired with a metallic sheen. The consistency was lightly creamy, dense but not stiff, and smooth to the touch. The eyeshadow had rich pigmentation that adhered well to bare skin and blended out with little effort along the edges. It wore beautifully for eight and a half hours on me.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Make Up For Ever ME644 Iced Brown (P, $17.00) is more shimmery, darker (95% similar).
- Anastasia Gorgina (LE, $12.00) is less shimmery, lighter, warmer (95% similar).
- NARS Telesto (P, $29.00) is less shimmery, lighter, warmer (95% similar).
- ColourPop Lap of Lux (PiP, $4.50) is less shimmery, lighter (95% similar).
- Pat McGrath Beyond Bronze 003 (LE, $25.00) is less shimmery, darker (95% similar).
- Pat McGrath Cyber Bronze (LE, $25.00) is more shimmery, warmer (95% similar).
- Chanel Patine Bronze (840) (P, $36.00) is less shimmery, cooler (95% similar).
- Charlotte Tilbury Super Blue #2 (LE, ) is warmer (95% similar).
- JD Glow Deep Bronze (P, $7.50) is more shimmery (95% similar).
- Urban Decay Distilled (PiP, $19.00) is less shimmery, darker, warmer (95% similar).
Formula Overview
$29.00/0.08 oz. - $362.50 Per Ounce
The majority of the brand's eyeshadows are quite pigmented, blendable, and long-wearing. The eyeshadows have improved over time, particularly with respect to longevity (without a primer). The original formula often creased on me within seven to eight hours, whereas the more current formula wears eight to nine hours with fading (instead of full-on creasing). The more matte finishes tend to be a bit more velvety, substantial, and less dry/powdery compared to prior iterations.
The metallic finish is often the creamiest, slightly denser in feel, but has excellent pigmentation, adhesion, and blendability. The sparkling shades can have some fallout, depending on how they're applied and how sparkly they are, so they sometimes work better with fingertips or a dampened brush; they can also run sheerer compared to other finishes.
Cream-Powders are the more unique formulation and tend to have firmer, almost stiff, consistencies and more semi-opaque, watercolor-esque coverage. They are longer-wearing, but they can take a few uses to learn how to use. This formula has also improved compared to when it first debuted--it is a bit more yielding now.
Browse all of our Natasha Denona Metallic Eye Shadow swatches.
Varis
PiPPermanent in Palette. $29.00.
Brass
Brass is a rich, greenish-gold with warm undertones and a sparkling, metallic finish. The texture was creamy, moderately dense, and thicker than most of the shades in the palette, but it actually applied exceptionally well to bare skin with rich, opaque color payoff in a single layer and no fallout (despite the sparkles!). The edges remained blendable, but I noticed that it did cause some of the sparkles to move around though not much in the way of fallout. This shade stayed on well for eight and a half hours with a touch of fallout over time.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- MAC Miga de Pan (LE, $17.00) is less shimmery, lighter (95% similar).
- ColourPop The Good Life (P, $4.50) is lighter, warmer (90% similar).
- JD Glow 365 (P, $7.50) is lighter, warmer (90% similar).
- NARS Tryst (DC, $25.00) is cooler (90% similar).
- UOMA Beauty Axum (LE, ) is lighter, warmer (90% similar).
- Natasha Denona Orium (251DC) (LE, $29.00) is less shimmery, lighter (90% similar).
- Huda Beauty Charisma (PiP, ) is lighter, warmer (90% similar).
- Coloured Raine Lemon Wheat Grass (LE, $6.99) is lighter, cooler (90% similar).
- Huda Beauty Jaguar #3 (LE, ) is lighter, cooler (90% similar).
- Urban Decay Stargazer (DC, $20.00) is less shimmery, cooler (90% similar).
Formula Overview
$29.00/0.08 oz. - $362.50 Per Ounce
The majority of the brand's eyeshadows are quite pigmented, blendable, and long-wearing. The eyeshadows have improved over time, particularly with respect to longevity (without a primer). The original formula often creased on me within seven to eight hours, whereas the more current formula wears eight to nine hours with fading (instead of full-on creasing). The more matte finishes tend to be a bit more velvety, substantial, and less dry/powdery compared to prior iterations.
The metallic finish is often the creamiest, slightly denser in feel, but has excellent pigmentation, adhesion, and blendability. The sparkling shades can have some fallout, depending on how they're applied and how sparkly they are, so they sometimes work better with fingertips or a dampened brush; they can also run sheerer compared to other finishes.
Cream-Powders are the more unique formulation and tend to have firmer, almost stiff, consistencies and more semi-opaque, watercolor-esque coverage. They are longer-wearing, but they can take a few uses to learn how to use. This formula has also improved compared to when it first debuted--it is a bit more yielding now.
Browse all of our Natasha Denona Metallic Eye Shadow swatches.
Looks Using this Product
Brass
PiPPermanent in Palette. $29.00.
Sand Stone
Sand Stone is a light brown with warm, yellowish undertones and a matte finish. It had nearly opaque pigmentation that applied evenly and smoothly to bare skin. The consistency was soft, velvety, and a smidgen powdery in the pan but it didn’t appear dry on my skin and blended out with ease in practice. It lasted for eight hours on me before I noticed slight fading.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- LORAC Sand Dune (PiP, ) is lighter (95% similar).
- Kaja Hot Cocoa (LE, ) is lighter (95% similar).
- MAC Mumu (LE, $17.00) is darker (95% similar).
- Makeup by Mario Master Mattes #5 (PiP, ) is lighter (90% similar).
- Make Up For Ever M660 Speculous (DC, $21.00) is darker (95% similar).
- LORAC Burlap (LE, $19.00) is more muted (90% similar).
- Viseart Warm Mattes #3 (PiP, ) is lighter (90% similar).
- ColourPop Pink Slip (LE, $4.50) is more muted, cooler (90% similar).
- ColourPop Flutes (LE, $6.00) is darker (90% similar).
- NABLA Cosmetics Caramel (P, $8.00) is lighter, cooler (90% similar).
Formula Overview
-
The majority of the brand's eyeshadows are quite pigmented, blendable, and long-wearing. The eyeshadows have improved over time, particularly with respect to longevity (without a primer). The original formula often creased on me within seven to eight hours, whereas the more current formula wears eight to nine hours with fading (instead of full-on creasing). The more matte finishes tend to be a bit more velvety, substantial, and less dry/powdery compared to prior iterations.
The metallic finish is often the creamiest, slightly denser in feel, but has excellent pigmentation, adhesion, and blendability. The sparkling shades can have some fallout, depending on how they're applied and how sparkly they are, so they sometimes work better with fingertips or a dampened brush; they can also run sheerer compared to other finishes.
Cream-Powders are the more unique formulation and tend to have firmer, almost stiff, consistencies and more semi-opaque, watercolor-esque coverage. They are longer-wearing, but they can take a few uses to learn how to use. This formula has also improved compared to when it first debuted--it is a bit more yielding now.
Browse all of our Natasha Denona Creamy Matte Eye Shadow swatches.
Look Using this Product
Sand Stone
PiPPermanent in Palette.
Alchemist
Alchemist is a rich, golden copper with strong, warm undertones and a sparkling, metallic finish. The pigmentation was opaque in a single layer, while the texture was smooth, lightly creamy, and dense but not too thick or stiff to work with using a dry brush. The eyeshadow applied well, blended with minimal effort, and wore well for eight and a half hours on me.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Pat McGrath Bronze Blaze (PiP, $25.00) is darker (95% similar).
- Pat McGrath Gold Nectar (LE, $25.00) is less shimmery, lighter (95% similar).
- Pat McGrath Bronze (LE, $25.00) is brighter (95% similar).
- ColourPop Ice to See You (LE, $4.50) is less shimmery, cooler (95% similar).
- Huda Beauty Smokey #6 (PiP, ) is cooler (95% similar).
- Viseart Petit Pro #6 (LE, ) is brighter (95% similar).
- Sephora Copper (LE, ) is less shimmery, lighter (90% similar).
- Huda Beauty Limitless (PiP, ) is less shimmery, cooler (90% similar).
- Guerlain Crazy Paris #1 (LE, ) is less shimmery, lighter (90% similar).
- Tarte Sunset (PiP, ) is less shimmery, cooler (90% similar).
Formula Overview
$29.00/0.08 oz. - $362.50 Per Ounce
The majority of the brand's eyeshadows are quite pigmented, blendable, and long-wearing. The eyeshadows have improved over time, particularly with respect to longevity (without a primer). The original formula often creased on me within seven to eight hours, whereas the more current formula wears eight to nine hours with fading (instead of full-on creasing). The more matte finishes tend to be a bit more velvety, substantial, and less dry/powdery compared to prior iterations.
The metallic finish is often the creamiest, slightly denser in feel, but has excellent pigmentation, adhesion, and blendability. The sparkling shades can have some fallout, depending on how they're applied and how sparkly they are, so they sometimes work better with fingertips or a dampened brush; they can also run sheerer compared to other finishes.
Cream-Powders are the more unique formulation and tend to have firmer, almost stiff, consistencies and more semi-opaque, watercolor-esque coverage. They are longer-wearing, but they can take a few uses to learn how to use. This formula has also improved compared to when it first debuted--it is a bit more yielding now.
Browse all of our Natasha Denona Metallic Eye Shadow swatches.
Look Using this Product
Alchemist
PiPPermanent in Palette. $29.00.
Teak
Teak is a light-medium brown with subtle, warmer red undertones and a matte finish. It had excellent color coverage that applied evenly to bare skin and blended out nicely on me. The texture was soft, velvety, and blendable without being too thin or too dense, which made it workable without a primer but still easy to diffuse the edges of. It stayed on nicely for eight and a half hours on me before fading a bit.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Too Faced Chocolate Cookie (PiP, $16.00) is darker, warmer (95% similar).
- NARS Surabaya I (PiP, $19.00) is more shimmery, darker (95% similar).
- Juvia's Place Burkina (P, ) is warmer (95% similar).
- Coloured Raine Royal Prerogative (PiP, $6.99) is lighter, warmer (95% similar).
- Coloured Raine Gingerbread (DC, $6.99) is warmer (95% similar).
- Urban Decay Riff (DC, $19.00) is more shimmery (95% similar).
- ColourPop Diggin' U (LE, $4.50) is cooler (95% similar).
- Too Faced Puree (PiP, $16.00) is cooler (95% similar).
- Marc Jacobs Beauty That's Why (PiP, ) is warmer (95% similar).
- Dior Ombre Sculpting Powder (003) (PiP, ) is darker (90% similar).
Formula Overview
-
The majority of the brand's eyeshadows are quite pigmented, blendable, and long-wearing. The eyeshadows have improved over time, particularly with respect to longevity (without a primer). The original formula often creased on me within seven to eight hours, whereas the more current formula wears eight to nine hours with fading (instead of full-on creasing). The more matte finishes tend to be a bit more velvety, substantial, and less dry/powdery compared to prior iterations.
The metallic finish is often the creamiest, slightly denser in feel, but has excellent pigmentation, adhesion, and blendability. The sparkling shades can have some fallout, depending on how they're applied and how sparkly they are, so they sometimes work better with fingertips or a dampened brush; they can also run sheerer compared to other finishes.
Cream-Powders are the more unique formulation and tend to have firmer, almost stiff, consistencies and more semi-opaque, watercolor-esque coverage. They are longer-wearing, but they can take a few uses to learn how to use. This formula has also improved compared to when it first debuted--it is a bit more yielding now.
Browse all of our Natasha Denona Creamy Matte Eye Shadow swatches.
Teak
PiPPermanent in Palette.
Aurum
Aurum is a light-medium gold with warm, yellow undertones and a metallic sheen. The pigmentation was opaque in one stroke, and the color applied evenly to bare skin with good adherence. The texture was smooth, lightly creamy, and denser but not thick or stiff to work with, so I didn’t have any trouble picking up product with a dry brush and getting it to translate on my lid. It blended out easily and lasted well for eight and a half hours on me.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Coloured Raine Gold Rose (LE, $6.99) is more shimmery, warmer (95% similar).
- ColourPop Golden One (LE, $4.50) is more shimmery, darker (95% similar).
- Pat McGrath Refined Gold 002 (LE, $25.00) is cooler (95% similar).
- Moira Sending Me (P, $8.50) is more shimmery, cooler (95% similar).
- Chanel Signe Particulier #4 (LE, ) is darker, warmer (95% similar).
- Tom Ford Beauty Arabesque #2 (PiP, ) is more shimmery, lighter (95% similar).
- Moira A Vibe (P, $7.50) is more shimmery, cooler (95% similar).
- Pat McGrath Incandescent Gold 003 (LE, $25.00) is more shimmery, lighter (95% similar).
- Chanel Lumieres et Vibrations #2 (LE, ) is more shimmery, darker, cooler (95% similar).
- Charlotte Tilbury The Rebel (2020) #1 (PiP, ) is more shimmery, cooler (95% similar).
Formula Overview
$29.00/0.08 oz. - $362.50 Per Ounce
The majority of the brand's eyeshadows are quite pigmented, blendable, and long-wearing. The eyeshadows have improved over time, particularly with respect to longevity (without a primer). The original formula often creased on me within seven to eight hours, whereas the more current formula wears eight to nine hours with fading (instead of full-on creasing). The more matte finishes tend to be a bit more velvety, substantial, and less dry/powdery compared to prior iterations.
The metallic finish is often the creamiest, slightly denser in feel, but has excellent pigmentation, adhesion, and blendability. The sparkling shades can have some fallout, depending on how they're applied and how sparkly they are, so they sometimes work better with fingertips or a dampened brush; they can also run sheerer compared to other finishes.
Cream-Powders are the more unique formulation and tend to have firmer, almost stiff, consistencies and more semi-opaque, watercolor-esque coverage. They are longer-wearing, but they can take a few uses to learn how to use. This formula has also improved compared to when it first debuted--it is a bit more yielding now.
Browse all of our Natasha Denona Metallic Eye Shadow swatches.
Wow, surprise, but glad. Sadly, too many dupes, so I’ll be hoping for the cranberry palette to do as well.
Just like I thought, I can dupe out this entire palette about 5 times over, which honestly is really sad b/c it shows that I own too much makeup. The only shade I cannot dupe is the Lime Chrome shade which I once I get my hands on the PM Bronze Seduction palette, I will be able to. Gorgeous palette, but I will be skipping.
Truly, I did NOT want to like this palette. But I’ve fallen very hard for it in spite of myself. Oy vey! Bad enough that I’m planning on buying PMG Mothership V during Rouge in November. Probably a bunch of Nars, too. I really didn’t need to far in deep for another super expensive palette! Perhaps my ex was right about one thing, that I have expensive taste… ?
What a beautifully put together palette! I have yet to get anything by natasha denona.. this may be just the palette!
Very excited by how well this performaned. I thought this was a limited edition one, though. That’s definitely a positive piece of information too. Yay!
I asked Natasha when it was announced and she said it was permanent!
Christine how do you think it compares with her other palettes/formulas? I have the Star, which I love, but the 28-pans have been a bit of a disappointment – the mattes are tough to work with..
I think the mattes are consistent with the last palettes she has released (over the last couple of years), and the shimmers are less creamy, on average, compared to the original 28-pan palettes.
As much as I love shades of gold at $170 CAN I’m good. But really narrow band of colours in this palette. ?
I love your hair!
Back from Europe, YAY!! It probably sounds ungrateful but I am happy to be home. It was great but a long 5 weeks. Anyway, I feel so far out of the loop with regards to makeup and the holiday releases. I will take some time to go back and review a few weeks of posts so that I know what I should be concerned about in the world of makeup. This palette is beautiful and your eye looks are really stellar. I am afraid that these shades are just not ones that look good on me. Whatever my undertone actually is, it doesn’t look good in these shades. I am glad that it scored so well for those who want to pick it up.
A short story from my trip to Europe. My daughter and I went to Harrods in London and we were overwhelmed by all the makeup. I was looking for foundation as the one I brought with me was quickly running out. I took Chanel Perfection Lumiere Velvet in the shade 12 Beige Rose which is a cool undertoned foundation. I went to the Chanel counter and the sales associate told me that 12 Beige Rose was the wrong shade for me as it is cool undertoned and I am warm toned according to her. Before purchasing I decided to walk around a little and see what is available, bearing in mind that whatever I purchased needed to be available in the U. S. I went to the By Terry counter and the associate told me that I was cool undertoned and wanted me to try their stick foundation. I let her apply some and walked around with it the rest of the night. I went back the next day to see about picking it up and there was a different SA there. She told me I was warm undertoned. Honestly, how did I change undertone three times within 15 feet? Anyway, purchased the original shade of Chanel that I have been using!!
Welcome to my world. I’ve had MUAs tell me I should wear nothing but good and silver, MUAs tell me I should wear wines and burgundies– all of this on my eyes. One tip– I got the Viseart concealer palette because under-eye concealing and color correcting is super important for me. And through that I have figured out that my skin tone actually does shift with sun exposure, the weather, blood flow, tiredness etc. In other words, being at fair neutral, I can basically use one out of five correctors in that palette depending on the day. Concerning this palette. I did order it which now I am regretting. It’s probably going to be too orange.
Shame, if I were in a position to splurge, I would definitely snag this up. The tones are all flattering to me, and could definitely see myself getting a lot of every day wear potential out of this as well as for events.
Hey Christine! I’m going to ask you the dullest question of all so please bear with me. 🙂
I’ve been wanting to see for myself what the natasha denona hype is about, so I’ve been waiting for something to catch my eye, so that i can finally try her formula.
But lately with her hit and miss palettes I’m confused. Is her formula worth the hype? Like i understand the hype about pmg a little, i own all her smaller palettes and an eye kit from before, and i see the value there. The formula is super easy to work with and delivers very well, the colors in the ultravoilet eye kit that I have are super unique and deliver something that i didn’t have in my collection before. But with Natasha Denona I can’t decide. Are her shimmers really the best in the market?
Sometimes i see her palettes and wonder, i better buy some colourpop metallic and super shock shadows… they’ll probably perform as well.
I’m sooo confused! Please help. 🙂
I think this palette is so beautiful, but… I have strong dupes for 9 of the shades (including the two blue/greens) and in some cases, the dupes outperformed the ND shadows. So, I guess I’m skipping this one. So far, the holiday releases have mostly been a bust for me – not really seeing much that I really *have* to have. Some of this has been me, starting a new job and being a little more conservative with the eye makeup, and some of it, I think is just that I have soooo many neutrals and golds. Guess I’ll hold onto my points and my gift cards for now..
This is a truly stunning palette. Python and some of those metallics have me swooning. I love your eye look!
A beautiful palette, but so many of the golds are very similar to each other. And I agree with you Christine, some antique golds or olive golds would have given this palette more depth and dimension. It’s sad that the teal shade was poorly pigmented.
I really want this palette. It’s perfect for my NW 25 skin tone as the palette appears “warm”
That said, I will pass due to my budget constraints. (Boo hoo)
I bought a mini “Star” ND palette that just came out for Holiday 2018. I am in love with those colors, The quality of the shadows are superb – both mattes & Shimmer.
Great palette from Natasha Denona!