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Pat McGrath Subversive Mothership Eyeshadow Palette Review, Photos, Swatches

1 of 16
Pat McGrath Subversive Mothership Eyeshadow Palette
Pat McGrath Subversive Mothership Eyeshadow Palette
Pat McGrath Subversive Mothership Eyeshadow Palette
Pat McGrath Subversive Mothership Eyeshadow Palette
Pat McGrath Subversive Mothership Eyeshadow Palette
Pat McGrath Subversive Mothership Eyeshadow Palette
Pat McGrath Subversive Mothership Eyeshadow Palette
Pat McGrath Subversive Mothership Eyeshadow Palette
Pat McGrath Subversive Mothership Eyeshadow Palette
Pat McGrath Subversive Mothership Eyeshadow Palette
Pat McGrath Subversive Mothership Eyeshadow Palette
Pat McGrath Subversive Mothership Eyeshadow Palette
Pat McGrath Subversive Mothership Eyeshadow Palette
Pat McGrath Subversive Mothership Eyeshadow Palette
Pat McGrath Subversive Mothership Eyeshadow Palette
Pat McGrath Subversive Mothership Eyeshadow Palette
Pat McGrath Subversive Mothership Eyeshadow Palette
Pat McGrath Subversive Mothership Eyeshadow Palette
Pat McGrath Subversive Mothership Eyeshadow Palette
Pat McGrath Subversive Mothership Eyeshadow Palette
Pat McGrath Subversive Palettes | Look Details
Pat McGrath Subversive Palettes | Look Details
Pat McGrath Subversive Palettes | Look Details
Pat McGrath Subversive Palettes | Look Details
Pat McGrath Subversive Look | Look Details
Pat McGrath Subversive Look | Look Details
Pat McGrath Subversive Look | Look Details
Pat McGrath Subversive Look | Look Details
Pat MccGrath Subversive Palette | Look Details
Pat MccGrath Subversive Palette | Look Details
Pat MccGrath Subversive Palette | Look Details
Pat MccGrath Subversive Palette | Look Details
Pat McGrath Subversive Mothership Eyeshadow Palette
Pat McGrath Subversive Mothership Eyeshadow Palette
Pat McGrath Subversive Mothership Eyeshadow Palette
Pat McGrath Subversive Mothership Eyeshadow Palette
Pat McGrath Subversive Mothership Eyeshadow Palette
Pat McGrath Subversive Mothership Eyeshadow Palette
Pat McGrath Subversive Mothership Eyeshadow Palette
Pat McGrath Subversive Mothership Eyeshadow Palette
Pat McGrath Subversive Mothership Eyeshadow Palette
Pat McGrath Subversive Mothership Eyeshadow Palette
Pat McGrath Subversive Palettes | Look Details
Pat McGrath Subversive Palettes | Look Details
Pat McGrath Subversive Look | Look Details
Pat McGrath Subversive Look | Look Details
Pat MccGrath Subversive Palette | Look Details
Pat MccGrath Subversive Palette | Look Details

Subversive

Pat McGrath Subversive Mothership Eyeshadow Palette ($125.00 for 0.47 oz.) is a new, permanent palette that features 10 eyeshadows in a variety of finishes that has warmer-toned shades with a few pops of cooler pink/violet kind of shades. The brand has divided their eyeshadows into two finishes: Powderluxe Pressed Eye Shadows (matte, pearl, and sparkle finishes) and “modern, hybrid pigmented formulas” (I’m not sure why one type got an official name and the other did not!) with the latter having “metallic, satin sheen, iridescence, and holographic brilliance finishes.”

The key to determining which is which is to look at the shape of the eyeshadow–the “hybrid” shades are domed, and they tend to have a lot more sparkle in them, too. These shades are often recommended to be applied with a “dampened brush to achieve an eye-opening effect” or with “fingertip[s],” though some of the Powderluxe shades can be used wet or dry, too (per the brand). Pat McGrath actually breaks down how to apply each shade here. It’s all I ever wanted from a brand: to actually be more specific on a shade-by-shade level if, in fact, they intend for shades to differ in pigmentation or application!

There’s something about the way the palettes in the Mothership line are designed that makes me think they’re artistic, conceptual palettes that will be most versatile when paired with other eyeshadows and palettes one might have in one’s stash. There were definitely looks to be done within the palette, but I often wanted to reach for outside shades to bring looks to their fullest potential. It will also perform the best if you already use dampened brushes with high-sparkle/high-shimmer eyeshadows.

The packaging is hefty; there’s no question that some of the high price tag is due to the heavier packaging and the metal-esque plate on the exterior and the faceted mirror inside. I do, however, wish the brand had labeled the eyeshadows somewhere on the palette along with the palette’s name.

Subversive

PPermanent. $128.00.
B+
B+
8.5
Product
9.5
Pigmentation
9
Texture
8.5
Longevity
4.5
Application
89%
Total

1 of 2
Pat McGrath Skinshow Fever EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Skinshow Fever EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Skinshow Fever EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Skinshow Fever EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Skinshow Fever EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Skinshow Fever EYEdols Eyeshadow

Skinshow Fever

Skinshow Fever is a light-medium gold with strong, warm orange undertones and a frosted sheen. It had excellent pigmentation that applied evenly and smoothly to bare skin. The texture was soft, finely-milled, and almost cream-like, which made blending a dream. Per the brand, it can be applied wet or dry with the wet application amplifying the finsh (made it more metallic). The color lasted for eight and a half hours on me.

FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).

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.

Skinshow Fever

PiPPermanent in Palette. $25.00.
A
A
10
Product
10
Pigmentation
10
Texture
9
Longevity
5
Application
98%
Total
1 of 2
Pat McGrath Night Creature EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Night Creature EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Night Creature EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Night Creature EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Night Creature EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Night Creature EYEdols Eyeshadow

Night Creature

Night Creature is a bright, medium purple with warm, pink undertones and a sparkling finish. It had rich, opaque color payoff in a single layer, and it was fairly easy to blend, but the texture was a bit denser and thicker compared to the mattes in the palette. As a result, I would recommend applying this over any matte eyeshadow application/blending. It wore well for eight and a half hours and had minor fallout.

FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).

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.

Ingredients

Talc, Calcium Sodium Borosilicate, Silica, Mica, Dimethicone, Behenyl Dimethicone/Bis-Vinyldimethicone Crosspolymer, Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate, Trimethylsiloxysilicate, Polyethylene, C20-24 Olefin, Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Tin Oxide. (+/ -): Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Iron Oxides (CI 77491, CI 77499), Carmine (CI 75470), Ultramarines (CI 77007).

Disclaimer: Ingredient lists are as available by the brand (or retailer) at the time of publishing. Please always check product packaging, if it exists, for the ingredient list applicable to the product you're purchasing, or the brand or retailer's website for the most up-to-date ingredient list.

Night Creature

PiPPermanent in Palette. $25.00.
A-
A-
9
Product
10
Pigmentation
9
Texture
8.5
Longevity
5
Application
92%
Total
1 of 2
Pat McGrath Deep Shade EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Deep Shade EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Deep Shade EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Deep Shade EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Deep Shade EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Deep Shade EYEdols Eyeshadow

Deep Shade

Deep Shade is a medium-dark, red-brown with warm undertones and a matte finish. It had semi-opaque, buildable pigmentation with a soft, velvety texture that wasn’t too soft nor was it too firm in the pan, which helped it blend easily on the lid. The color stayed on well for nine hours before fading slightly.

FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).

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.

Deep Shade

PiPPermanent in Palette. $25.00.
A-
A-
8.5
Product
9
Pigmentation
8.5
Texture
9.5
Longevity
5
Application
90%
Total
1 of 2
Pat McGrath Gigabyte EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Gigabyte EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Gigabyte EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Gigabyte EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Gigabyte EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Gigabyte EYEdols Eyeshadow

Gigabyte

Gigabyte is a deep, greenish-gold with warm, olive undertones and a sparkling, metallic finish. The brand stated that this could be used wet or dry, though I did not find the coverage to get greater with a dampened brush, but the finish was more metallic and the product went on more evenly on bare skin. It had good pigmentation both wet and dry that stayed on well for eight and a half hours with slight fallout.

FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).

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.

Gigabyte

PiPPermanent in Palette. $25.00.
B+
B+
8.5
Product
9
Pigmentation
8.5
Texture
8.5
Longevity
5
Application
88%
Total
1 of 2
Pat McGrath VR Pink EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath VR Pink EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath VR Pink EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath VR Pink EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath VR Pink EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath VR Pink EYEdols Eyeshadow

VR Pink

VR Pink is a medium-dark, coppery brown base with strong, yellow undertones paired with peach-to-gold shifting sparkle. The consistency was drier and looser with a chunky texture, due to the amount and particle size of the glittery bits. It had semi-opaque pigmentation applied dry, which was slightly more pigmented and smoother in application when applied with a dampened brush. I did not see any specific guidance on what tool to apply this shade (but it had a similar texture to Blitz Amethyst where fingertips were recommended). The color lasted for eight hours but had moderate fallout without applying it with a dampened brush or adhesive base (Fix+ worked fine for controlling fallout).

FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).

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 Pink

PiPPermanent in Palette. $25.00.
B-
B-
7.5
Product
8.5
Pigmentation
7.5
Texture
8
Longevity
4.5
Application
80%
Total
1 of 4
Pat McGrath Xtreme Black (Subliminal)
Pat McGrath Xtreme Black (Subliminal)
Pat McGrath Xtreme Black (Sublime)
Pat McGrath Xtreme Black (Sublime)
Pat McGrath Xtreme Black (Subliminal)
Pat McGrath Xtreme Black (Subliminal)
Pat McGrath Xtreme Black (Sublime)
Pat McGrath Xtreme Black (Sublime)
Pat McGrath Xtreme Black (Subliminal)
Pat McGrath Xtreme Black (Sublime)
Pat McGrath Xtreme Black (Subliminal)
Pat McGrath Xtreme Black (Sublime)

Xtreme Black

Xtreme Black is a deep black with neutral-to-cool undertones and a matte finish. The color payoff was fantastic, while the texture was velvety and soft without being too powdery or too firmly pressed in the pan. It wore well for nine hours on me before fading.

FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).

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 Black

PiPPermanent in Palette. $25.00.
A
A
9
Product
10
Pigmentation
9
Texture
9.5
Longevity
5
Application
94%
Total
1 of 2
Pat McGrath Lazarus EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Lazarus EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Lazarus EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Lazarus EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Lazarus EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Lazarus EYEdols Eyeshadow

Lazarus

Lazarus is a deep brown with subtle, warm red undertones and a pearly sheen. It had excellent pigmentation with a smooth, blendable texture that was incredibly finely-milled and soft to the touch. The eyeshadow stayed on well for nine hours before fading slightly.

FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).

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.

Lazarus

PiPPermanent in Palette. $25.00.
A+
A+
10
Product
10
Pigmentation
10
Texture
9.5
Longevity
5
Application
99%
Total
1 of 2
Pat McGrath Black Metal EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Black Metal EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Black Metal EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Black Metal EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Black Metal EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Black Metal EYEdols Eyeshadow

Black Metal

Black Metal is a medium-dark black with warm, brown undertones and silver sparkle. Using it with a dampened brush yielded the most intense, smoothest results, though the brand recommended “pressing” the eyeshadow “with your fingertip” to get to the “desired sparkling intensity” (read: buildable). When used dry, it had more medium, buildable coverage and was more prone to having sparkle fallout during application. Applied with fingertips, it seemed to yield similar results as using it dry–buildable coverage and shimmer. It wore well for eight and a half hours on me.

FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).

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.

Black Metal

PiPPermanent in Palette. $25.00.
B+
B+
8.5
Product
9
Pigmentation
8.5
Texture
8.5
Longevity
5
Application
88%
Total
1 of 3
Pat McGrath Blitz Amethyst EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Blitz Amethyst EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Blitz Amethyst EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Blitz Amethyst EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Blitz Amethyst EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Blitz Amethyst EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Blitz Amethyst EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Blitz Amethyst EYEdols Eyeshadow
Pat McGrath Blitz Amethyst EYEdols Eyeshadow

Blitz Amethyst

Blitz Amethyst is a medium-dark, silvery purple with a warmer, almost olive-toned base and cooler, pink-to-blue shifting sparkle. The consistency was looser and drier to the touch, and it did not apply too easily to the lid using a brush (dry) or fingertip (as recommended) as there was quite a bit of fallout. It applied much more smoothly when I used a dampened brush (even just using water), and I think if one wanted to really pack on the sparkle, then patting a second layer over the first with a fingertip worked fine. It wore well for eight hours and had a bit of fallout.

FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).

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 Amethyst

PiPPermanent in Palette. $25.00.
B-
B-
7.5
Product
9
Pigmentation
8
Texture
8
Longevity
4
Application
81%
Total
1 of 3
Pat McGrath Astral Ghost Orchid (Sublime)
Pat McGrath Astral Ghost Orchid (Sublime)
Pat McGrath Astral Ghost Orchid (Sublime)
Pat McGrath Astral Ghost Orchid (Sublime)
Pat McGrath Astral Ghost Orchid (Sublime)
Pat McGrath Astral Ghost Orchid (Sublime)
Pat McGrath Astral Ghost Orchid (Sublime)
Pat McGrath Astral Ghost Orchid (Sublime)
Pat McGrath Astral Ghost Orchid (Sublime)

Astral Ghost Orchid

Astral Ghost Orchid is a silvery white base with pink-to-violet shifting sparkle. Per the brand, it is recommended to apply it “with the fingertip for colour-morphing, sultry shine” until the “desired effect” (read: buildable) is achieved. It’s a sheer, sparkling shade, and the duochrome shift made it “colour-morphing” when layered over something else. When I tried applying it with a dampened brush, it had more semi-sheer coverage, but it had medium, buildable coverage applied with a fingertip–I preferred applying with a brush first and then patting a bit more on top with my fingertip for higher coverage and greater sparkle. It wore well for eight hours on me but had some fallout over time if I did not use it with a dampened brush or over an adhesive base.

FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).

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 Ghost Orchid

PiPPermanent in Palette. $25.00.
B-
B-
8
Product
8.5
Pigmentation
8.5
Texture
7
Longevity
4.5
Application
81%
Total

24 Comments

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Comments on this post are closed.
Melissa Avatar

Honestly, the ND Lila palette is SO beautiful and so wearable, even in my very conservative work environment. These are beautiful but seem so much more editorial. I don’t think you’ll regret your choice.

Jessica Avatar

I decided to grab the PML palettes. I work at a non-profit, but it’s an arts organization so I can get away with wearing things like green lipstick (I’ve done it 2x – my boss complimented one of the ones I wore, lol) and hot pink and gold glittery eyeshadow (I’ve also done this, lol). As long as I keep it more conservative during board meetings, my boss doesn’t care.

But I decided to go with the Huda Desert Dusk palette over Lila, just because there were more matte shades.

Clidre Avatar

Nancy, what are your thoughts on ND Lila? I was considering purchasing it but now I’m torn between Lila and Pat’s La Vie en Rose

Patrícia Avatar

I don’t understand why this pallete is so expensive, the colors are cool but I don’t se myself reaching for them on a daily basis. For a makeup artist I think this would be an amazing addition!

Jessica Avatar

Pat McGrath is considered to be the most influential makeup artist in the world. A lot of the trends that have come along have been because of her and what looks she creates on the runway. So while the price is a hard hard hard pill to swallow, it makes sense given her legacy.

CeeBee Avatar

This looks STUNNING.

However… I think it could be duped with Colourpop eyeshadows pretty closely, with a couple of exceptions (amethyst blitz, sigh…)

I do love the Pat McGrath packaging too!

Genevieve Avatar

A very interesting range of shades here, some beautiful colours and a great rating overall.
I am not sure a palette of this size needed two blacks and I agree with you Christine, that you needed shades from other palettes to bring out the best of this one.
An expensive palette, so you would have to love most of the shades.
Thank you for the review Christine, your eye look is lovely.

Mariella Avatar

That was my exact reaction too, Seraphine – for that price, a B+ isn’t good enough and it should be an A at least. With all of these really reflective palettes coming out (it seems to be the next thing to copy, after all the red-toned palettes), even someone like me, who absolutely loves shimmer and sheen, would be hard pressed to use something like this on its own or more than once in a while. But I sure love Gigabyte and Blitz Amethyst….wish I could get just those two and will have to check out the dupes (I’ve probably got some for Gigabyte).

Agona Avatar

That’s how I feel about ND Lila’s, which I’ve been craving. Honestly, my collection is so large that a palette only makes it back into usage rotation every once and awhile so I can’t justify $50+.

Christine Avatar

Hi Krutika,

At a $125, you’re really the only person who can answer that – it is a lot of money for an eyeshadow palette, so it will depend on what you like, what your preferences are, the value of $125 in general (for one person, that could be an entire year’s budget and for someone else, it could be a week’s budget).

kjh Avatar

Right now, it seems easy to rule out eye palettes. Maybe it was the big 69 last month. There is glitter overload for s.o. as ancient as me. Don’t really want to fuss around with diff formulas, diff apps. Too much Patticare for e/s most days, anyway. Turning into an old fart! Actually, surprisingly duped on this. Was stunned by amethyst blitz, but have fathoms deep and the CMH dupe. And so it goes, for most of the shades I like. Maybe a lip; will peruse your swatches/dupes. PS: your work ethic is showing!

Shelley Avatar

I used to love watching Pat apply shadow to models’ lids with her fingertips. So quick, yet graceful and effective. It was mesmerizing. I’m glad she released shadows where she names those that she’d apply with fingertips. Time to channel my inner Pat McGrath!

Jessica Avatar

I have this one and the I in my cart right now. This is absolutely gorgeous. I had the II in my cart but the fact that it shares a shade (not including the black that’s repeated in each one) with the III made me take it out of my cart. I was hoping you would have 1 of them reviewed prior to the Rouge sale and you pulled it off somehow even with all of the other items in your list for review. Thank you!

Katherine T. Avatar

Thanks for the review, was curious about these. Some interesting shades in here! Glad this is permanent so you can catch sales or collect gift cards

janine Avatar

Not really into this or any of her palettes. They are pretty but don’t seem to cohesive. I’ve invested in several Viseart palettes but the main one I use daily is the neutral mattes.

For the price it should be A+ quality.

M Avatar

Gorgeous – I especially like VR Pink – but these absurdly priced eyeshadow palettes are just so silly to me. Especially in the era of high quality indies, falling for pricing like this just seems bizarre. I understand the appeal of a good shadow formula, but at this price point even a shadow formulated in heaven itself wouldn’t be worth it to me because it’s still just an eyeshadow.

Yet clearly people are buying these and causing more and more companies to realize they can get away with these astonishing cost:profit margins because it seems like more and more companies are letting their palette prices creep upwards…

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