Pat McGrath Moonlit Seduction Mothership Eyeshadow Palette Review & Swatches
Moonlit Seduction
Pat McGrath Moonlit Seduction Mothership Eyeshadow Palette ($128.00 for 0.68 oz.) is the newest Mothership and includes three matte shades and seven shimmer shades (which ranged from metallic to intensely shiny and sparkly). In the past, the last two shades in each row have been domed and deemed “special” shades, and while the shades in these positions in this palette are named like past “special” shades, they are not domed.
I found that they were similar in look applied but the texture was more loosely-pressed, almost dry at times, and as a result, sheerer and more prone to fallout. I’ve been able to use these special shades without a tacky base as well as patted on with brushes, but I found both the Astral shades in this palette to really require an adhesive base to work well. The base seemed to have less glide and inherent smoothness when applied onto my lid, though the four “special” shades had a higher-level of shine than past “special” shades.
The matte and more metallic shades were consistent with the brand’s formula: pigmented, blendable, and long-wearing!
Top Dupes
- Too Faced Whipped Cream (LE, $16.00) is lighter, cooler (95% similar).
- Natasha Denona Sienna (50DC) (PiP, $29.00) is more shimmery, cooler (95% similar).
- ColourPop GRLFRND (LE, $4.50) is cooler (95% similar).
- Make Up For Ever I514 Pink Ivory (DC, $21.00) is lighter (95% similar).
- Sydney Grace Hot Stuff (P, $6.25) is more shimmery, cooler (95% similar).
- MAC Cooler Than Being Cool (LE, $21.00) is cooler (95% similar).
- ColourPop Refill (PiP, $4.50) is more shimmery (95% similar).
- Natasha Denona Copper Stone (188M) (PiP, $29.00) is warmer (95% similar).
- Danessa Myricks Trooper (P, $18.00) is lighter, cooler (95% similar).
- Dose of Colors Sunglow (LE, ) is more shimmery, darker, cooler (95% similar).
Ingredients
Moonlit Seduction
PPermanent. $128.00.
Skintense Glow
Skintense Glow is a very light gold with moderate, warm yellow undertones and fine pink contrasting pearl that gave it a metallic sheen.
- Opaque coverage
- Slightly soft feel but smooth, easy to pick up
- Blendable, applied evenly
- Long-wearing (10 hours)
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- ColourPop Jet Set (PiP, $4.50) is lighter, cooler (95% similar).
- Sydney Grace Bailey's Bliss (P, $6.25) is lighter (95% similar).
- ColourPop Going Coastal (LE, $4.50) is less shimmery (95% similar).
- MAC Call of the Canyon (LE, $17.00) is lighter, cooler (95% similar).
- ColourPop Baked Goods (PiP, $4.50) is less shimmery, cooler (95% similar).
- Too Faced Whipped Cream (LE, $16.00) is lighter, cooler (95% similar).
- ColourPop Refill (PiP, $4.50) is more shimmery (95% similar).
- Make Up For Ever I514 Pink Ivory (DC, $21.00) is lighter (95% similar).
- MAC Dazzlelight (P, $17.00) is less shimmery, cooler (90% similar).
Formula Overview
$25.00/0.04 oz. - $625.00 Per Ounce
Pat McGrath's eyeshadows are, generally, supposed to be "super-saturated" with "creamy, soft textures" and "extreme blendability and adherence without creasing." A lot of how well they perform (and to some degree, how they are supposed to be applied and marketed) depends on the type of shades, but by and large, the eyeshadows perform very much as they are described.
The brand released single eyeshadows in March 2019, and the shades have been consistent in quality, look, and feel. They are not removable, unfortunately, so one would have to depot like any other single eyeshadow--I tried using tweezers and lifting on several shades to no avail. The lids are held closed by a weak magnet, so I'm not sure they're as secure as most single eyeshadow compacts in my stash--I wish it really locked in, but there's definitely a magnet that pulls the lid down if it's within 2mm of the base.
The mattes are velvety, blendable, and dense without being thick or too heavy, and they have semi-opaque to opaque pigmentation where a little can go a long way with some of the deeper and richer hues. The satin and pearl finishes are smooth, lightly creamy, and firmer but not dense or thick with good pigmentation, blendability, and easy application. The more metallic finishes tend to be softer, creamy, and smooth with a bit more denseness and no powderiness. The sparkly/glittery shades are often designed to be applied wet for richer coverage or intensity, which has largely been my experience. Most of the shades last between eight and nine hours.
Browse all of our Pat McGrath EYEdols Eyeshadow swatches.
Skintense Glow
PiPPermanent in Palette. $25.00.
Rosewood Romantique
Rosewood Romantique is a muted, medium plummy brown with warm undertones and a matte finish.
- Opaque coverage
- Smooth, velvety, not powdery
- Applied and blended out well
- Very long-wearing (9.5 hours)
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Huda Beauty Sand Haze #3 (PiP, ) is darker (95% similar).
- Charlotte Tilbury Love Glow (Smoke) (LE, ) is darker (90% similar).
- Zoeva Lonely City (PiP, ) is darker (90% similar).
- Pat McGrath Secret Eden (PiP, $25.00) is lighter (85% similar).
- ColourPop Fly By Night (LE, $4.50) is more shimmery, lighter (85% similar).
- ColourPop Sip Sip (LE, $4.50) is lighter (85% similar).
- Too Faced Just Ripe (PiP, $16.00) is darker, warmer (85% similar).
- Huda Beauty Sand Haze #9 (PiP, ) is more shimmery, lighter, warmer (85% similar).
- Sydney Grace Trust (P, $5.25) is more shimmery, lighter, warmer (85% similar).
- Anastasia C3 (Norvina Mini Vol. 2) (LE, $12.00) is warmer (85% similar).
Formula Overview
$25.00/0.04 oz. - $625.00 Per Ounce
Pat McGrath's eyeshadows are, generally, supposed to be "super-saturated" with "creamy, soft textures" and "extreme blendability and adherence without creasing." A lot of how well they perform (and to some degree, how they are supposed to be applied and marketed) depends on the type of shades, but by and large, the eyeshadows perform very much as they are described.
The brand released single eyeshadows in March 2019, and the shades have been consistent in quality, look, and feel. They are not removable, unfortunately, so one would have to depot like any other single eyeshadow--I tried using tweezers and lifting on several shades to no avail. The lids are held closed by a weak magnet, so I'm not sure they're as secure as most single eyeshadow compacts in my stash--I wish it really locked in, but there's definitely a magnet that pulls the lid down if it's within 2mm of the base.
The mattes are velvety, blendable, and dense without being thick or too heavy, and they have semi-opaque to opaque pigmentation where a little can go a long way with some of the deeper and richer hues. The satin and pearl finishes are smooth, lightly creamy, and firmer but not dense or thick with good pigmentation, blendability, and easy application. The more metallic finishes tend to be softer, creamy, and smooth with a bit more denseness and no powderiness. The sparkly/glittery shades are often designed to be applied wet for richer coverage or intensity, which has largely been my experience. Most of the shades last between eight and nine hours.
Browse all of our Pat McGrath EYEdols Eyeshadow swatches.
Rosewood Romantique
PiPPermanent in Palette. $25.00.
Platinum Dusk
Platinum Dusk is a darker pewter with hints of muted olive undertones and a sparkling, metallic finish that yielded a lot of shine but was smooth (smoother in practice than the swatch might imply).
- Opaque coverage
- Smooth, lightly emollient, more loosely-pressed
- Blendable, applied evenly
- Very long-wearing (9.5 hours)
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Sydney Grace Opulence (LE, $6.25) is lighter, cooler (90% similar).
- Viseart Argente (PiP, ) is cooler (90% similar).
- Natasha Denona Maxi (458M) (PiP, $29.00) is less shimmery (90% similar).
- Urban Decay Mushroom (P, $19.00) is less shimmery, lighter, cooler (85% similar).
- Sydney Grace Awkward Silence (P, $8.00) is more shimmery, cooler (85% similar).
- Natasha Denona Gray-Brown (38M) (PiP, $29.00) is less shimmery, cooler (85% similar).
- Sydney Grace Traveling Elegance (LE, $6.25) is darker, more muted, cooler (85% similar).
- Sydney Grace Fallen Empire (LE, $6.25) is darker, cooler (85% similar).
- LORAC Luna (LE, ) is less shimmery, darker, cooler (85% similar).
- Sydney Grace Albert (PiP, $6.25) is darker, cooler (80% similar).
Formula Overview
$25.00/0.04 oz. - $625.00 Per Ounce
Pat McGrath's eyeshadows are, generally, supposed to be "super-saturated" with "creamy, soft textures" and "extreme blendability and adherence without creasing." A lot of how well they perform (and to some degree, how they are supposed to be applied and marketed) depends on the type of shades, but by and large, the eyeshadows perform very much as they are described.
The brand released single eyeshadows in March 2019, and the shades have been consistent in quality, look, and feel. They are not removable, unfortunately, so one would have to depot like any other single eyeshadow--I tried using tweezers and lifting on several shades to no avail. The lids are held closed by a weak magnet, so I'm not sure they're as secure as most single eyeshadow compacts in my stash--I wish it really locked in, but there's definitely a magnet that pulls the lid down if it's within 2mm of the base.
The mattes are velvety, blendable, and dense without being thick or too heavy, and they have semi-opaque to opaque pigmentation where a little can go a long way with some of the deeper and richer hues. The satin and pearl finishes are smooth, lightly creamy, and firmer but not dense or thick with good pigmentation, blendability, and easy application. The more metallic finishes tend to be softer, creamy, and smooth with a bit more denseness and no powderiness. The sparkly/glittery shades are often designed to be applied wet for richer coverage or intensity, which has largely been my experience. Most of the shades last between eight and nine hours.
Browse all of our Pat McGrath EYEdols Eyeshadow swatches.
Platinum Dusk
PiPPermanent in Palette. $25.00.
VR Sextasy
VR Sextasy is a rich, reddish-brown base with blue-to-purple shifting sparkle and pearl. What set it apart from others like it (this type of duochrome is very, very done) was it had an incredible about of shine and reflectivity.
- Nearly opaque coverage, though base seemed slightly translucent
- Overly soft, fairly smooth, use with lighter hand
- Light fallout, best applied with fingertip initially
- Long-wearing (9 hours with light fallout)
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- MAC Humoresque (LE, $18.00) is cooler (95% similar).
- Sydney Grace Pistol (P, $6.00) is lighter, warmer (90% similar).
- Touch in Sol Holo Mulberry (5) (P, $18.00) is lighter, warmer (90% similar).
- Urban Decay Solstice (P, $22.00) is lighter, warmer (85% similar).
- Terra Moons Interstellar (P, $8.50) is less shimmery, lighter (90% similar).
- ColourPop Cosmic Ray (PiP, $4.50) is less shimmery (90% similar).
- ColourPop Lucid (LE, $4.50) is darker, cooler (90% similar).
- ColourPop Late Bloomer (P, $9.00) is less shimmery, darker, cooler (90% similar).
- ColourPop Frog's Breath (LE, $4.50) is less shimmery, cooler (85% similar).
- ColourPop Intergalactic (LE, $4.50) is less shimmery, lighter, warmer (85% similar).
Formula Overview
$25.00/0.04 oz. - $625.00 Per Ounce
Pat McGrath's eyeshadows are, generally, supposed to be "super-saturated" with "creamy, soft textures" and "extreme blendability and adherence without creasing." A lot of how well they perform (and to some degree, how they are supposed to be applied and marketed) depends on the type of shades, but by and large, the eyeshadows perform very much as they are described.
The brand released single eyeshadows in March 2019, and the shades have been consistent in quality, look, and feel. They are not removable, unfortunately, so one would have to depot like any other single eyeshadow--I tried using tweezers and lifting on several shades to no avail. The lids are held closed by a weak magnet, so I'm not sure they're as secure as most single eyeshadow compacts in my stash--I wish it really locked in, but there's definitely a magnet that pulls the lid down if it's within 2mm of the base.
The mattes are velvety, blendable, and dense without being thick or too heavy, and they have semi-opaque to opaque pigmentation where a little can go a long way with some of the deeper and richer hues. The satin and pearl finishes are smooth, lightly creamy, and firmer but not dense or thick with good pigmentation, blendability, and easy application. The more metallic finishes tend to be softer, creamy, and smooth with a bit more denseness and no powderiness. The sparkly/glittery shades are often designed to be applied wet for richer coverage or intensity, which has largely been my experience. Most of the shades last between eight and nine hours.
Browse all of our Pat McGrath EYEdols Eyeshadow swatches.
VR Sextasy
PiPPermanent in Palette. $25.00.
Astral Gold Lust
Astral Gold Lust has a transparent base chocked full of flecks of sparkle that ranged from darker copper to lighter peachy-gold to the point where it had a bit of a shift, as it went darker and more orange-copper to light, golden peach. The finish was particularly shiny–arguably shinier than past Astrals and still quite sparkly, but noticeably more fallout and a bit of “dryness” with less of a glide in the base. I’ve been able to use past Astral shades without having to use an adhesive spray or tacky base, but I felt like this palette’s Astrals require it.
- Semi-sheer to medium coverage, best applied over tacky base
- Soft, more prone to fallout, slightly dry
- Best applied with fingertip over tacky base for evenness
- Somewhat long-wearing but had some fallout over time (8 hours)
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Urban Decay Stellar (DC, $20.00) is darker, more pigmented (90% similar).
- Clionadh Magz (LE, $6.00) is less shimmery (90% similar).
- Viseart Unleashed (PiP, ) is less shimmery, more pigmented (85% similar).
- Fenty Beauty Sunburst (LE, ) is darker, more pigmented (85% similar).
- Pat McGrath Liquid Sun (LE, $25.00) is less shimmery, more pigmented (85% similar).
- Charlotte Tilbury Icon Date Eyes #1 (LE, ) is darker, more pigmented, cooler (85% similar).
- MAC Stylishly Merry #2 (LE, $20.00) is darker (85% similar).
- ColourPop Rainbow Connection (LE, $6.00) is less shimmery, darker, more pigmented (80% similar).
- Sephora Wendy G (LE, ).
- ColourPop Two Birds (P, $4.50).
- Too Faced Chocolate Gold (LE, $16.00).
- ColourPop TF (LE, $4.50).
- MAC Gold Metalist (LE, $21.00).
Formula Overview
$25.00/0.04 oz. - $625.00 Per Ounce
Pat McGrath's eyeshadows are, generally, supposed to be "super-saturated" with "creamy, soft textures" and "extreme blendability and adherence without creasing." A lot of how well they perform (and to some degree, how they are supposed to be applied and marketed) depends on the type of shades, but by and large, the eyeshadows perform very much as they are described.
The brand released single eyeshadows in March 2019, and the shades have been consistent in quality, look, and feel. They are not removable, unfortunately, so one would have to depot like any other single eyeshadow--I tried using tweezers and lifting on several shades to no avail. The lids are held closed by a weak magnet, so I'm not sure they're as secure as most single eyeshadow compacts in my stash--I wish it really locked in, but there's definitely a magnet that pulls the lid down if it's within 2mm of the base.
The mattes are velvety, blendable, and dense without being thick or too heavy, and they have semi-opaque to opaque pigmentation where a little can go a long way with some of the deeper and richer hues. The satin and pearl finishes are smooth, lightly creamy, and firmer but not dense or thick with good pigmentation, blendability, and easy application. The more metallic finishes tend to be softer, creamy, and smooth with a bit more denseness and no powderiness. The sparkly/glittery shades are often designed to be applied wet for richer coverage or intensity, which has largely been my experience. Most of the shades last between eight and nine hours.
Browse all of our Pat McGrath EYEdols Eyeshadow swatches.
Astral Gold Lust
PiPPermanent in Palette. $25.00.
Xtreme Nocturne
Xtreme Nocturne is a deep taupe with a grayish overtone and a warmer, reddish-brown undertone paired with a matte finish.
- Opaque coverage
- Smooth, velvety, not powdery
- Applied and blended out well
- Very long-wearing (9.5 hours)
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Danessa Myricks Trooper (P, $18.00) is lighter, cooler (95% similar).
- Sydney Grace Alpha (P, $5.25) is more shimmery, warmer (95% similar).
- ColourPop Sad Girl (PiP, $4.50) is cooler (90% similar).
- Sydney Grace Spyder (LE, $5.25) is darker (90% similar).
- Fenty Beauty Gettin' Toasty (PiP, ) is lighter (90% similar).
- ColourPop Ur Hot (LE, $4.50) is darker (90% similar).
- Dior Matte Charcoal (PiP, ) is lighter, warmer (85% similar).
- Sydney Grace Cocoa Beans (PiP, $5.25) is darker, cooler (85% similar).
- Marc Jacobs Beauty O Snap (610) (LE, $29.00) is lighter, warmer (85% similar).
- Sydney Grace Boaz (Light) (PiP, $5.25) is darker, cooler (80% similar).
Formula Overview
$25.00/0.04 oz. - $625.00 Per Ounce
Pat McGrath's eyeshadows are, generally, supposed to be "super-saturated" with "creamy, soft textures" and "extreme blendability and adherence without creasing." A lot of how well they perform (and to some degree, how they are supposed to be applied and marketed) depends on the type of shades, but by and large, the eyeshadows perform very much as they are described.
The brand released single eyeshadows in March 2019, and the shades have been consistent in quality, look, and feel. They are not removable, unfortunately, so one would have to depot like any other single eyeshadow--I tried using tweezers and lifting on several shades to no avail. The lids are held closed by a weak magnet, so I'm not sure they're as secure as most single eyeshadow compacts in my stash--I wish it really locked in, but there's definitely a magnet that pulls the lid down if it's within 2mm of the base.
The mattes are velvety, blendable, and dense without being thick or too heavy, and they have semi-opaque to opaque pigmentation where a little can go a long way with some of the deeper and richer hues. The satin and pearl finishes are smooth, lightly creamy, and firmer but not dense or thick with good pigmentation, blendability, and easy application. The more metallic finishes tend to be softer, creamy, and smooth with a bit more denseness and no powderiness. The sparkly/glittery shades are often designed to be applied wet for richer coverage or intensity, which has largely been my experience. Most of the shades last between eight and nine hours.
Browse all of our Pat McGrath EYEdols Eyeshadow swatches.
Xtreme Nocturne
PiPPermanent in Palette. $25.00.
Bronze Devotion
Bronze Devotion is a rich, medium golden bronze with strong, warm undertones and an intense, metallic finish.
- Opaque coverage
- Smooth, lightly emollient, creamy to touch
- Blendable, applied evenly
- Very long-wearing (10 hours)
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Natasha Denona Sienna (50DC) (PiP, $29.00) is more shimmery, cooler (95% similar).
- Sydney Grace Hot Stuff (P, $6.25) is more shimmery, cooler (95% similar).
- Natasha Denona Copper Stone (188M) (PiP, $29.00) is warmer (95% similar).
- Dose of Colors Sunglow (LE, ) is more shimmery, darker, cooler (95% similar).
- Glaminatrix Temptation (P, $8.04) is more shimmery, darker, cooler (90% similar).
- Guerlain Gold Palette #5 (LE, ) is more shimmery, darker, cooler (90% similar).
- ColourPop Auburn (LE, $4.50) is more shimmery, darker, cooler (90% similar).
- MAC Dazzle Style (P, $18.00) is more shimmery, darker, cooler (90% similar).
- Huda Beauty Topaz #6 (LE, ) is less shimmery, darker, cooler (85% similar).
- Kaja Gilded Chocolate (PiP, ) is less shimmery, darker, cooler (85% similar).
Formula Overview
$25.00/0.04 oz. - $625.00 Per Ounce
Pat McGrath's eyeshadows are, generally, supposed to be "super-saturated" with "creamy, soft textures" and "extreme blendability and adherence without creasing." A lot of how well they perform (and to some degree, how they are supposed to be applied and marketed) depends on the type of shades, but by and large, the eyeshadows perform very much as they are described.
The brand released single eyeshadows in March 2019, and the shades have been consistent in quality, look, and feel. They are not removable, unfortunately, so one would have to depot like any other single eyeshadow--I tried using tweezers and lifting on several shades to no avail. The lids are held closed by a weak magnet, so I'm not sure they're as secure as most single eyeshadow compacts in my stash--I wish it really locked in, but there's definitely a magnet that pulls the lid down if it's within 2mm of the base.
The mattes are velvety, blendable, and dense without being thick or too heavy, and they have semi-opaque to opaque pigmentation where a little can go a long way with some of the deeper and richer hues. The satin and pearl finishes are smooth, lightly creamy, and firmer but not dense or thick with good pigmentation, blendability, and easy application. The more metallic finishes tend to be softer, creamy, and smooth with a bit more denseness and no powderiness. The sparkly/glittery shades are often designed to be applied wet for richer coverage or intensity, which has largely been my experience. Most of the shades last between eight and nine hours.
Browse all of our Pat McGrath EYEdols Eyeshadow swatches.
Bronze Devotion
PiPPermanent in Palette. $25.00.
Plum Cabaret
Plum Cabaret is a medium plum with subtle, warmer pink undertones and a matte finish.
- Opaque coverage
- Smooth, velvety, not powdery
- Applied and blended out well
- Very long-wearing (9.5 hours)
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- ColourPop Obsession (LE, $4.50) is more shimmery, lighter (95% similar).
- MAC All's Rosy (LE, $17.00) is lighter, warmer (90% similar).
- Pat McGrath Plum Regalia (LE, $25.00) is lighter, warmer (90% similar).
- LORAC High Tide (LE, $19.00) is lighter, warmer (85% similar).
- Too Faced Wrap It Up (LE, $16.00) is lighter, warmer (85% similar).
- Clionadh Wildberry (P, $4.50) is lighter, warmer (80% similar).
Formula Overview
$25.00/0.04 oz. - $625.00 Per Ounce
Pat McGrath's eyeshadows are, generally, supposed to be "super-saturated" with "creamy, soft textures" and "extreme blendability and adherence without creasing." A lot of how well they perform (and to some degree, how they are supposed to be applied and marketed) depends on the type of shades, but by and large, the eyeshadows perform very much as they are described.
The brand released single eyeshadows in March 2019, and the shades have been consistent in quality, look, and feel. They are not removable, unfortunately, so one would have to depot like any other single eyeshadow--I tried using tweezers and lifting on several shades to no avail. The lids are held closed by a weak magnet, so I'm not sure they're as secure as most single eyeshadow compacts in my stash--I wish it really locked in, but there's definitely a magnet that pulls the lid down if it's within 2mm of the base.
The mattes are velvety, blendable, and dense without being thick or too heavy, and they have semi-opaque to opaque pigmentation where a little can go a long way with some of the deeper and richer hues. The satin and pearl finishes are smooth, lightly creamy, and firmer but not dense or thick with good pigmentation, blendability, and easy application. The more metallic finishes tend to be softer, creamy, and smooth with a bit more denseness and no powderiness. The sparkly/glittery shades are often designed to be applied wet for richer coverage or intensity, which has largely been my experience. Most of the shades last between eight and nine hours.
Browse all of our Pat McGrath EYEdols Eyeshadow swatches.
Plum Cabaret
PiPPermanent in Palette. $25.00.
Blitz Venus
Blitz Venus is a slightly muted, light rosy copper with warm undertones and a high-shine, metallic finish.
- Opaque coverage
- Slightly soft feel but smooth, easy to pick up
- Blendable, applied evenly
- Long-wearing (9 hours)
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- NARS Earthshine (P, $22.00) is less shimmery, lighter, warmer (95% similar).
- Giorgio Armani Stellar (5) (P, $36.00) is less shimmery, lighter (90% similar).
- ColourPop Bellini (LE, $7.00) is more shimmery, warmer (90% similar).
- Ciate Glisten (PiP, ) is lighter, warmer (90% similar).
- Tom Ford Beauty Paradiso (Cream) (LE, $45.00) is less shimmery, warmer (90% similar).
- NARS Rigel (P, $29.00) is warmer (90% similar).
- Charlotte Tilbury Rose Gold (P, $34.00) is less shimmery, lighter, warmer (90% similar).
- Laura Mercier Bed of Roses (P, $29.00) is less shimmery, lighter (90% similar).
- Anastasia Rose Quartz (LE, $12.00) is lighter, warmer (90% similar).
- Lethal Cosmetics Acolyte (P, $6.50) is lighter (90% similar).
Formula Overview
$25.00/0.04 oz. - $625.00 Per Ounce
Pat McGrath's eyeshadows are, generally, supposed to be "super-saturated" with "creamy, soft textures" and "extreme blendability and adherence without creasing." A lot of how well they perform (and to some degree, how they are supposed to be applied and marketed) depends on the type of shades, but by and large, the eyeshadows perform very much as they are described.
The brand released single eyeshadows in March 2019, and the shades have been consistent in quality, look, and feel. They are not removable, unfortunately, so one would have to depot like any other single eyeshadow--I tried using tweezers and lifting on several shades to no avail. The lids are held closed by a weak magnet, so I'm not sure they're as secure as most single eyeshadow compacts in my stash--I wish it really locked in, but there's definitely a magnet that pulls the lid down if it's within 2mm of the base.
The mattes are velvety, blendable, and dense without being thick or too heavy, and they have semi-opaque to opaque pigmentation where a little can go a long way with some of the deeper and richer hues. The satin and pearl finishes are smooth, lightly creamy, and firmer but not dense or thick with good pigmentation, blendability, and easy application. The more metallic finishes tend to be softer, creamy, and smooth with a bit more denseness and no powderiness. The sparkly/glittery shades are often designed to be applied wet for richer coverage or intensity, which has largely been my experience. Most of the shades last between eight and nine hours.
Browse all of our Pat McGrath EYEdols Eyeshadow swatches.
Blitz Venus
PiPPermanent in Palette. $25.00.
Astral Lilac Aura
Astral Lilac Aura has a translucent base and was full of medium-sized sparkle particles that were very lightly lavender and cooler-toned. It could have had a more emollient base, which would have helped it adhere better on its own, but it had a very wet-like shine that I haven’t seen achieved by most other formulas.
The coverage of Astrals has been typically less-pigmented but they have ranged from sheer (like this) to more medium coverage, but the brand typically doesn’t call out the sheerness–so this did score lower as a result but if you like sheerer sparkle shades, then you might love this.
- Semi-sheer coverage, best applied over tacky base
- Soft, more prone to fallout, slightly dry
- Best applied with fingertip over tacky base for evenness
- Somewhat long-wearing but had some fallout over time (8 hours)
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- ColourPop GRLFRND (LE, $4.50) is cooler (95% similar).
- MAC Cooler Than Being Cool (LE, $21.00) is cooler (95% similar).
- MAC Shine De-light (P, $18.00) is less shimmery, warmer (90% similar).
- Make Up For Ever Reflection (LE, ) is darker, cooler (90% similar).
- ColourPop Juice Box (PiP, $4.50) is less shimmery (90% similar).
- NYX Come Thru Coconut (P, $10.50) is less shimmery, darker, cooler (90% similar).
- Lisa Eldridge Illusionism (P, $16.00) is less shimmery, warmer (90% similar).
- ColourPop Mountain Lion (LE, $6.00) is less shimmery, lighter, cooler (90% similar).
- MAC Mirrorball (PiP, ) is less shimmery, darker, cooler (90% similar).
- Natasha Denona Lavender/Gold and Silver (3) (P, $28.00) is less shimmery, darker, warmer (85% similar).
Formula Overview
$25.00/0.04 oz. - $625.00 Per Ounce
Pat McGrath's eyeshadows are, generally, supposed to be "super-saturated" with "creamy, soft textures" and "extreme blendability and adherence without creasing." A lot of how well they perform (and to some degree, how they are supposed to be applied and marketed) depends on the type of shades, but by and large, the eyeshadows perform very much as they are described.
The brand released single eyeshadows in March 2019, and the shades have been consistent in quality, look, and feel. They are not removable, unfortunately, so one would have to depot like any other single eyeshadow--I tried using tweezers and lifting on several shades to no avail. The lids are held closed by a weak magnet, so I'm not sure they're as secure as most single eyeshadow compacts in my stash--I wish it really locked in, but there's definitely a magnet that pulls the lid down if it's within 2mm of the base.
The mattes are velvety, blendable, and dense without being thick or too heavy, and they have semi-opaque to opaque pigmentation where a little can go a long way with some of the deeper and richer hues. The satin and pearl finishes are smooth, lightly creamy, and firmer but not dense or thick with good pigmentation, blendability, and easy application. The more metallic finishes tend to be softer, creamy, and smooth with a bit more denseness and no powderiness. The sparkly/glittery shades are often designed to be applied wet for richer coverage or intensity, which has largely been my experience. Most of the shades last between eight and nine hours.
Browse all of our Pat McGrath EYEdols Eyeshadow swatches.
Astral Lilac Aura
PiPPermanent in Palette. $25.00.
Pat McGrath Moonlit Seduction Mothership Eyeshadow Palette
Pat McGrath Moonlit Seduction Mothership Eyeshadow Palette
Pat McGrath Moonlit Seduction Mothership Eyeshadow Palette
Pat McGrath Moonlit Seduction Mothership Eyeshadow Palette
Pat McGrath Moonlit Seduction Mothership Eyeshadow Palette
Pat McGrath Moonlit Seduction Mothership Eyeshadow Palette
Pat McGrath Moonlit Seduction Mothership Eyeshadow Palette
Pat McGrath Moonlit Seduction Mothership Eyeshadow Palette
Pat McGrath Skintense Glow EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Skintense Glow EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Rosewood Romantique EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Rosewood Romantique EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Platinum Dusk EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Platinum Dusk EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath VR Sextasy EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath VR Sextasy EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath VR Sextasy EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Astral Gold Lust EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Astral Gold Lust EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Astral Gold Lust EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Xtreme Nocturne EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Xtreme Nocturne EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Bronze Devotion EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Bronze Devotion EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Plum Cabaret EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Plum Cabaret EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Blitz Venus EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Blitz Venus EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Blitz Venus EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Astral Lilac Aura EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Astral Lilac Aura EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Astral Lilac Aura EYEdols Eyeshadow
Maryam Maquillage had her palette arrive with the gold Astral shade shattered! She was able to press it back into the pan, but made mention of just how fragile this one is. My guess? That the pale lilac Astral is likewise fragile. I intend on getting it during the next Sephora or PML sale, and fingers crossed, neither Astral shade arrives shattered or broken. I will say this, that after watching Alicia Archer and several others in the medium to dark range do amazing looks with this palette, I knew that it was for me, too.
Hmmm -a part from the inclusion of two shades that are duds for PMG, who usually doesn’t have any, this palette lacks cohesion. I only really liked 3 shades: Platinum Dusk, Bronze Devotion and Blitz Venus.
I can see why you weren’t so impressed with this latest offering Christine.
Although I found the Mothership I Subliminal palette (my only from PMG) disappointingly lackluster and overhyped, I would potentially give the brand another shot if they created a color story without so much pink and gold. That said, this seems to be the ongoing theme for Mothership palettes so at least I get to keep my $128!
Oh don’t you talk about one of my favorite palettes like that! 😛
Mothership 1 is incredible. You get a surreal color when you put the white astral over the blue – try it on the midlid. I have 2,000 shadows in my collection and nothing like it. The transition shade lasts 14 hours. You can do a one and done with the metal lilac or taupe. You can use the browbone highlight as a cheek and lip light; the pink astral as a lip topper and cheek topper. The black is wonderful as a liquid liner if you mix a drop of Fix+ into it. The antique gold is insanely great over any shadow in her collection and adds a dimension without being overly done. The only shadow I might complain about is the dark brown – it’s slightly dry for my taste but I suspect she made it that way to reduce fallout at the outer corners.
I’ve hit pan on one shadow (which almost never happens) and have decent dips in almost all the shades because of the way I use it and how well it pairs with other palettes.
It’s an incredibly versatile palette with insane staying power. I think a lot of people just don’t have the experience to fully appreciate the diverse range of uses nor the quality.
I haven’t gotten X yet. In fact, it’s the first mothership I am waiting to buy instead of getting outright. Luxury means you never go on sale, Pat. Whoever is telling you otherwise is selling you short.
I’ve been eagerly awaiting this review. I always buy Motherships on launch day but for some reason with this one I decided to wait for review and since it took so long to get to Sephora I’ll probably wait for a sale.
Wow, I don’t know if I’ve seen a C rating for PMLs products before, this surprises me. This palette doesn’t speak to me per say. I saw a beautiful picture of JLo done up with this palette and the Subversive palette. I don’t go out of my way to view celebrities makeup looks but this was really good and I kind of thought that I would wait for a sale now I think I’ll save my money!
Hmm, I am not a fan of the sparkle colours in her palettes, the matt shades are always super though. The brown taupe shade seems to go into every palette and seems a waste. This one is a no for me.
Thank you for the review Christine.
It’s pretty sad when you can literally dupe this entire palette w her other motherships, quads & six pans. It being # 10 and w the increased price of $128, I’m underwhelmed and disappointed. I don’t doubt social media accounts that stan her products can create nice looks w this palette. It’s a generic palette.That’s not hard. But for $128, I want more. I get neutrals sell but at that price, there should be NO quality issues. Even w her minuscule sales, I’m not sure I’d pick this up. I don’t need any palette just to have. I want palettes I’m excited to use. This ain’t it!
I was surprised it wasn’t more of a “return” to artistry to commemorate the 10th. I know I wouldn’t mind the rose-heavy palettes if they were more spaced out, but since they are releasing so close to each other, they are losing some mystique to me!
I thought this palette would be my first PMG purchase – love the color story and the fact that it contains several lighter shades – but, I don’t want to have to work so hard to use any palette, particularly one that costs $128. Honestly, I can dupe almost all of the PMG shades that appeal to me with my current eyeshadow collection, so, I will go shop my stash to reproduce your beautiful PMG looks, Christine.
Thank you for review Christine, I’ve been eagerly waiting for your opinion. Looking at the swatches alone I most likely wouldn’t have bought this palette, and your review confirms my initial thought. The palette is very closely reminding me of the Manny MUA and Makeup Geek Collab, which I own, and is also an expanded version of Pat’s last year’s quad, which had the deep burgundy, the blue-brown and two gold-rosy metallics. I didn’t like that quad on my complexion, and expecting a similar result with the big Mothership. I will be getting this palette in PR to review, but I wouldn’t have bought it for myself (and I have purchased most of her palettes so far). I’m interested in watching the special shades and comparing them to my singles from indie brands.
Color story is cohesive. Those shades are still not for me (the bloody charcoal brown HAS to have a red base?? c’mon!!), but what I find the most annoying is how garbage the ingredients listings are. This formula might be more plastic than not (acrylates, polyethylene, and the silicones don’t bring the quality up either….) and a real easy pass. Crumbling special shades? That was the cornerstone of her pretending a ten-pan eyeshadow palette could possibly even touch a $100+ price tag.
I’m surprised people here aren’t more excited about this one, but I guess it’s mostly lackluster to those with large collections. This is my first Mothership, and I’ve found it a very versatile everyday palette that performs beautifully.
I might get it on sale, and just use glitter glue with it or pixie epoxy. The baked formula change didn’t seem to work out so well.
That “wet-like shine” really is something unique to the PM formula. I can’t find it anywhere else and it makes her larger pallets so tempting, even if I can dupe or wouldn’t many of the other colors.
I await the day that the “special shades” are released as singles, or a quad of all “special shades.” That shine is magnetic for me!!
I think the Blitz Astral Quad Ritualistic Rose palette was sort of like this! Love that palette.
I have almost all of the motherships and don’t see this one having a place in my collection. It feels like many colors are dupes for other shadows she has put out.