Tarte Rainforest of the Sea Eyeshadow Palette Review, Photos, Swatches
Tarte Rainforest of the Sea Eyeshadow Palette
Tarte Rainforest of the Sea Eyeshadow Palette ($34.00 for 0.40 oz.) includes eight eyeshadows in neutral tones with some warmer, some cooler-toned shades. It features a new eyeshadow formula, which Tarte describes as a “cream powder” that is “pigmented” and “blendable.” It’s a much denser, richer formula that is smooth but firmer in the pan (but not in a stiff way) that goes on better–it is similar to formulas like Make Up For Ever Artist Shadow and Kat Von D Metal Crush Eyeshadow. I am all for this new formula, because it performs well without primer, which has always been an area where Tarte’s powder eyeshadows have been more hit or miss. These are pigmented, blendable, and adhere to bare skin without primer–and I still get good wear (8 hours across the board), which you can obviously extend or insure if you wear primer normally. The biggest thing is really this formula is far easier to blend out and nothing turned patchy or uneven.
Worth noting, the palette is smaller in overall footprint than the last two circular palettes, and the previous palettes also contained 0.67 oz. and and retail for $40 (or $59.70/oz.). This palette contains less at 0.40 oz. but is also less expensive at $34, though that works out to be more expensive by the ounce ($85.00/oz.), which also works out to be 0.05 oz. per shade.
Seashell is a light-medium, pinky-peach with warm undertones and frosted finish. It had very good pigmentation with a soft, smooth, and blendable consistency that applied well to bare skin and wore for eight hours before fading slightly. LORAC Black Tie Attire #2 (LE, $19.00) is darker (95% similar). NYX Girl Talk (P, $6.00) is darker (95% similar). MAC MACnificent Me (LE, $17.00) is less shimmery (95% similar). The Estee Edit Riff (LE, ) is more shimmery (95% similar). Stila Rose Quartz (PiP, ) is less shimmery, darker (95% similar). Marc Jacobs Beauty The Lover #2 (LE, ) is darker (95% similar). Viseart Nuance #4 (PiP, )(95% similar). Kat Von D Glitz (DC, $21.00) is lighter (95% similar). YSL Scandal #2 (LE, ) is less shimmery, warmer (90% similar). NABLA Cosmetics Rosita (PiP, ) is less shimmery, lighter, warmer (90% similar). Urban Decay Sellout (P, $19.00) is lighter (90% similar). Colour Pop The Most (P, $4.50) is darker (90% similar). The Estee Edit 1st Light (LE, ) is less shimmery (90% similar). NARS Singapore #1 (PiP, $19.00) is more shimmery (90% similar). bareMinerals Custom Made (LE, ) is more shimmery, darker (90% similar). Sydney Grace Blondie (P, $6.00) is more shimmery (90% similar). Tarte Champagne Bubble Bath (LE, ) is lighter (90% similar). Chanel Les Indispensables #4 (LE, ) is less shimmery, warmer (90% similar). Le Metier de Beaute Nouvelle (LE, $30.00) is less shimmery, darker (90% similar). LORAC Tulle (LE, $19.00) is darker, cooler (90% similar). Top 20 dupes listed, see the rest. See comparison swatches / view dupes side-by-side.
Wave is a medium-dark taupe with subtle, cooler undertones and a frosted sheen. It was richly p igmented with a smooth, blendable texture that was a little looser in the pan compared to some of the other shades. It lasted for eight hours on me before fading. Too Faced Cherie (LE, $16.00) is darker (95% similar). Marc Jacobs Beauty The Social Butterfly #4 (PiP, ) is darker, warmer (90% similar). Tom Ford Beauty Lilac Dream #3 (PiP, ) is darker (95% similar). Clarins Silver Plum (07) (P, $24.00) is darker, cooler (90% similar). Wet 'n' Wild Silent Treatment #4 (PiP, ) is less shimmery, warmer (90% similar). Laura Mercier Stellar (PiP, $22.00) is less shimmery, darker (90% similar). Zoeva Wrapped in Silk (PiP, ) is darker, cooler (90% similar). YSL Taupe Drop (03) (P, $30.00) is cooler (90% similar). MAC Stroke My Ego (P, $18.50) is more shimmery (90% similar). NABLA Cosmetics Interference (P, $8.00) is darker (90% similar). Hourglass Plum Taupe (PiP, ) is darker (90% similar). Sephora Swell (DC, $10.00) is less shimmery, darker (95% similar). Sydney Grace Down the Coast (P, $8.00) is more shimmery, lighter, warmer (85% similar). Kat Von D Heaven (LE, ) is more shimmery, lighter (85% similar). Tarte Up Too Slate (LE, ) is darker (85% similar). NABLA Cosmetics Moonrise (P, $8.00) is darker (85% similar). MAC Cloudy Afternoon (LE, $21.00) is darker, warmer (85% similar). Cle de Peau Champagne Supernova #3 (PiP, ) is lighter, warmer (85% similar). MAC Dangerous Cuvee (P, $18.50) is darker, cooler (85% similar). Viseart Chroma #5 (PiP, ) is darker (85% similar). Top 20 dupes listed, see the rest. See comparison swatches / view dupes side-by-side.
Abyss is a muted, dark brown with warm undertones and a satiny sheen. It had good color payoff with a fairly smooth, blendable consistency that was a bit firmer in the pan compared to the more shimmery shades. It wore well for eight hours. Tarte Chestnuts Roasting (LE, ) is darker (95% similar). Tarte One Too Manet (LE, ) is darker (95% similar). Colour Pop Bravery (LE, $6.00) is darker (95% similar). Too Faced Truffled (PiP, $16.00) is warmer (95% similar). Colour Pop Hot Bod (PiP, $4.50) is darker (95% similar). Viseart Minx #2 (PiP, ) is lighter, warmer (90% similar). Urban Decay Twice Baked (P, $19.00) is more shimmery, warmer (90% similar). Too Faced Tout Suite (LE, $16.00) is more shimmery, lighter (90% similar). Natasha Denona Umber (78M) (PiP, $29.00) is more shimmery, darker, warmer (90% similar). Sephora + Pantone Universe Russet (LE, ) is warmer (90% similar). Chanel Les Indispensables #7 (LE, ) is lighter, cooler (90% similar). MAC Dark Brew (PiP, $17.00) is darker, warmer (80% similar). Tom Ford Beauty White Suede #3 (LE, ) is cooler (90% similar). Anastasia Antique Bronze (PiP, $12.00) is darker (90% similar). MAC Gravitational (LE, $22.00) is lighter, brighter, warmer (90% similar). Make Up For Ever S632 Hazelnut (DC, $21.00) is lighter, warmer (90% similar). Chanel Silver Pink (814) (P, $36.00) is darker, cooler (90% similar). Wet 'n' Wild Rose in the Air #7 (PiP, ) is less shimmery, darker (85% similar). Dior Earthy Canvas #3 (LE, ) is more shimmery, darker, warmer (85% similar). MAC Magmatique (LE, $17.00) is less shimmery, warmer (85% similar). Top 20 dupes listed, see the rest. See comparison swatches / view dupes side-by-side.
Reef is a medium-dark brown with warm undertones and a pearly shimmer-sheen finish. It’s not quite rich enough to be a true bronze, but there was something about the warmth and sheen that still made me want to call it bronze. It was intesely pigmented with a buttery, dense, and smooth consistency that wore for eight hours. Urban Decay Radar (LE, $19.00) is more shimmery, darker (95% similar). MAC Winsome Lose Some (LE, ) is darker (90% similar). Make Up For Ever D640 Golden Snake (DC, $21.00) is darker (90% similar). Too Faced Chocolate Martini (PiP, $16.00) is less shimmery, darker (90% similar). Dior Cosmopolite (P, $29.50) is more shimmery, lighter (90% similar). Guerlain Les Precieux #4 (LE, ) is lighter (90% similar). Smashbox Hell Ya (PiP, ) is darker (90% similar). Inglot #422 (P, $7.00) is darker (90% similar). Dior Ruby #5 (LE, ) is less shimmery, darker (90% similar). NARS Telesto (P, $29.00) is more shimmery, lighter (90% similar). Smashbox Stare (PiP, ) is darker (90% similar). MAC Good Girl & U Know It (LE, ) is darker, cooler (90% similar). NARS Tan Lines (LE, $29.00) is less shimmery, darker (90% similar). MAC Quiet Type (LE, $17.00) is more shimmery, darker (90% similar). Too Faced Cold Brew (LE, $16.00) is more shimmery (90% similar). Too Faced Merci (LE, $16.00) is darker (85% similar). NARS Himalia (P, $29.00) is more shimmery, lighter (85% similar). Tarte Firecracker (PiP, ) is more shimmery, lighter (85% similar). Sephora Brown Sugar (LE, ) is less shimmery, warmer (90% similar). MAC Soft Steel (LE, $22.00) is lighter, cooler (85% similar). Top 20 dupes listed, see the rest. See comparison swatches / view dupes side-by-side.
Starfish is a light-medium, golden brown with warm undertones and slight olive tones paired with a frosted finish. It had great color payoff with a soft, cream-like texture that blended out well without losing intensity. This shade wore well for eight hours. Tom Ford Beauty Noir Fume #2 (PiP, ) is less shimmery (95% similar). Estee Lauder Metal Saffron (LE, ) is darker (90% similar). Kevyn Aucoin Charge (LE, ) is darker (90% similar). Wet 'n' Wild House of Thorns #1 (LE, ) is less shimmery, darker (90% similar). Guerlain Les Precieux #4 (LE, ) is less shimmery, darker (90% similar). Marc Jacobs Beauty They Know Who (PiP, ) is more shimmery (90% similar). Sydney Grace Vibrant Madness (P, $8.00) is more shimmery, lighter (90% similar). Make Up For Ever D640 Golden Snake (DC, $21.00) is less shimmery, darker (85% similar). bareMinerals Elitist (PiP, ) is less shimmery, darker (85% similar). NARS Love Train (LE, $19.00) is less shimmery, brighter (85% similar). MAC Evening Light (LE, $17.00) is darker (85% similar). Too Faced Buche de Noel (LE, $16.00) is darker (85% similar). Chanel Patine Bronze (840) (P, $36.00) is darker (85% similar). LORAC Penny (LE, $19.00) is darker, warmer (85% similar). Too Faced Smokin' (LE, $16.00) is darker, cooler (85% similar). MAC A Harvest of Greens #2 (PiP, $21.00) is less shimmery, darker (85% similar). Giorgio Armani Incognito #4 (PiP, ) is more shimmery, darker (85% similar). Dior Smoky Sequins #3 (LE, ) is more shimmery, lighter (85% similar). MAC Crushed Clove (PiP, $17.00) is lighter (85% similar). Pat McGrath Enigma (PiP, $25.00) is less shimmery, darker (85% similar). Top 20 dupes listed, see the rest. See comparison swatches / view dupes side-by-side.
Cove is a light-medium, peachy beige with warm undertones and a satin finish. It had good pigmentation with a slightly thinner texture compared to the more shimmery shades, but it still had a denser, more cream-like feel overall. The color lasted for eight hours. Make Up For Ever M536 Milk Tea (DC, $21.00) is warmer (95% similar). Buxom Gimme Gorgeous (P, $12.00) is darker (95% similar). theBalm Score (LE, $16.00) is darker, cooler (90% similar). Tarte Smarty Pants (PiP, ) is darker (90% similar). Kat Von D Noble (LE, ) is less shimmery (90% similar). Becca Ombre Nudes #2 (PiP, ) is darker (90% similar). Milani Soft Touch (PiP, $5.99) is lighter (90% similar). Inglot J333 Sheer Gold (LE, $10.00) is lighter (90% similar). MAC Kid (P, $17.00) is warmer (90% similar). Chanel Entrelacs #2 (LE, ) is darker (90% similar). Urban Decay Stark (PiP, $19.00) is lighter (90% similar). Urban Decay Downfall (LE, $19.00) is darker (85% similar). Tom Ford Beauty White Suede (Nordstrom) #2 (LE, ) is more shimmery (85% similar). Milani Bella Cappuccino (03) (P, $4.49) is more shimmery, darker (85% similar). Anastasia Sherbert (LE, $12.00) is more shimmery, darker, warmer (85% similar). Stila Warm Honey (LE, $18.00) is darker (85% similar). Tarte Tan-gled Up in You (LE, ) is darker, cooler (90% similar). Kevyn Aucoin Camel (LE, ) is darker (85% similar). Lancome Sante (PiP, $19.00) is darker (85% similar). MAC Cork (P, $17.00) is darker (85% similar). Top 20 dupes listed, see the rest. See comparison swatches / view dupes side-by-side.
Sand is a light, yellowed beige with warm undertones and a satin finish. It had mostly opaque color payoff with a smooth, blendable texture that was easy to work with. This shade wore well for eight hours before fading. Kat Von D Sage (Highlight) (PiP, ) is lighter (95% similar). Dior Golden Reflections #4 (LE, ) is darker (95% similar). Smashbox Hero (PiP, ) is brighter (95% similar). Smashbox Vanilla (PiP, ) is darker (95% similar). Clinique Vanilla Pop (P, $17.00) is more shimmery (95% similar). LORAC Black Tie Attire #4 (LE, $19.00) is cooler (95% similar). Laura Mercier Buttercream (PiP, $23.00) is less shimmery (95% similar). Inglot #355 (P, $6.00) is cooler (95% similar). Colour Pop Full-Zip (PiP, $4.50) is lighter (95% similar). Marc Jacobs Beauty Take a Memo (PiP, ) is darker (95% similar). Hourglass Atmosphere #1 (PiP, ) is darker (95% similar). Huda Beauty Mauve #8 (PiP, ) is brighter (95% similar). bareMinerals Pacific Sands (LE, ) is darker (95% similar). MAC Chamomile (LE, $17.00) is less shimmery (95% similar). Jouer Crème (PiP, ) is more shimmery (95% similar). Hourglass Monochrome #1 (PiP, ) is darker (95% similar). LORAC Crepe (LE, $19.00) is darker (95% similar). Urban Decay Righteous (LE, $19.00) is less shimmery (95% similar). Sephora Lazy Afternoon (207) (P, $8.00) is darker (95% similar). LORAC Porcelain (LE, $19.00) is less shimmery (95% similar). Top 20 dupes listed, see the rest. See comparison swatches / view dupes side-by-side.
Mermaid is a light-medium, muted gold with warm, browner undertones and a frosted sheen. It was nicely pigmented with a smooth, dense, and buttery texture that blended out beautifully and lasted for eight hours. NARS Studly (LE, $29.00) is more shimmery (95% similar). Cle de Peau Golden Lace #4 (LE, ) is more shimmery (95% similar). NARS Hollywoodland (P, $28.00) is lighter, brighter (95% similar). MAC A Glimmer of Gold #1 (PiP, $21.00) is more shimmery (95% similar). Dior Trafalgar #4 (PiP, ) is darker (95% similar). Anastasia 10K (P, $12.00) is less shimmery, lighter (95% similar). Cle de Peau Stellar Gaze #1 (PiP, ) is more shimmery, darker, warmer (90% similar). MAC Beaded (LE, $17.00) is darker, warmer (90% similar). Sleek MakeUP Meet in Madrid (LE, $9.99) is more shimmery, darker (90% similar). Dior Earthy Canvas #1 (LE, ) is less shimmery, lighter, warmer (90% similar). Viseart Montaigne (PiP, ) is darker (90% similar). Makeup Geek Bleached Blonde (DC, $6.00) is darker (90% similar). Colour Pop Crimper (LE, $6.00) is more shimmery, lighter (90% similar). MAC Vicuna (LE, $17.00) is warmer (85% similar). Anastasia Yacht (LE, $12.00) is less shimmery, darker, warmer (85% similar). Estee Lauder Blonde Cumin (LE, ) is more shimmery, lighter (80% similar). See comparison swatches / view dupes side-by-side.
Rainforest of the Sea
LELimited Edition. $36.00.
Seashell
LELimited Edition.
Wave
LELimited Edition.
Abyss
LELimited Edition.
Reef
LELimited Edition.
Starfish
LELimited Edition.
Cove
LELimited Edition.
Sand
LELimited Edition.
Mermaid
LELimited Edition.
See more photos & swatches!
Tarte Rainforest of the Sea Eyeshadow Palette
Tarte Rainforest of the Sea Eyeshadow Palette
Tarte Rainforest of the Sea Eyeshadow Palette
Tarte Rainforest of the Sea Eyeshadow Palette
Tarte Rainforest of the Sea Eyeshadow Palette
Tarte Rainforest of the Sea Eyeshadow Palette
Tarte Rainforest of the Sea Eyeshadow Palette
Tarte Seashell Eyeshadow
Tarte Seashell Eyeshadow
Tarte Wave Eyeshadow
Tarte Wave Eyeshadow
Tarte Abyss Eyeshadow
Tarte Abyss Eyeshadow
Tarte Reef Eyeshadow
Tarte Reef Eyeshadow
Tarte Starfish Eyeshadow
Tarte Starfish Eyeshadow
Tarte Cove Eyeshadow
Tarte Cove Eyeshadow
Tarte Sand Eyeshadow
Tarte Sand Eyeshadow
Tarte Mermaid Eyeshadow
Tarte Mermaid Eyeshadow
Tarte Rainforest of the Sea Eyeshadow Palette
Tarte Rainforest of the Sea Eyeshadow Palette
I don’t doubt that it’s a nice palette, but it just seems so … boring? You’d think “Rainforest of the Sea” would mean a pop of teal or blue or something.
You could have definitely justified a teal or blue in it!
This palette looks so lovely. It’s a shame they don’t have darker tones in the mix, because then I could see it as a really cute travel palette for me. Instead, this palette simply overlaps with the many nudes palettes and shades I already own, so it would serve no purpose.
I think they could have swapped our one or two of the medium browns in the palette for something darker for sure!
I really want to check this palette out in person now. Most of the colors look very nice in your swatches. On first glance I wasn’t sure I needed this. Other than for the packaging it didn’t seem that special, but I really like these colors, I’m sure I have many similar ones, but I could see this being a go to for Spring and especially Summer. My only complaint is that metal thing in the middle, such a waste of space.
They’re really smooth and easy to work with, so I hope you can check it out in case you don’t have too many overlapping shades already 🙂
I was never impressed with Tarte’s old shadow formula, thought it was too dry and powdery, but so glad these are closer to MUFE and Kat Von D Metal! Now if they can only venture outside of neutrals into some brighter colors, I will pick up a palette. But this is a promising start
Here’s hoping they’ll do something more unique next time!
Even though this has the same “feel” as my little MACnificent Me palette, I may still buy this one for the quality. These shadows actually DO look creamy and lush. And I don’t see fallout being any sort of issue here, either. I just wonder how good of an idea it would be considering my already having MACnificent Me?
This might be a little more shimmery, I would say? A little cooler, perhaps. Definitely no fall out 😀
I’m so glad this got a good rating. I don’t think I can resist the stunning packaging!
Enjoy it, Michelle!
The shade names and the theme really lend themselves to a palette with some teals, corals, and purples. I have soooo many neutrals, but I still love that this scores well. Plus the packaging is really pretty, and the price isn’t that bad. Is this only available on Tarte’s website, or will it also be available from Ulta or Sephora?
It’s exclusive to Tarte and Sephora 🙂
Too bad they took out the blush in the middle that the other palettes have ! But I have to say, it’s so pretty !! I don’t know if I should get this one or the Tartelette in Bloom !
I’m of two minds… on one hand, less product, but on the other hand, it makes it a little more travel-friendly and there’s no worry about trying to put in one shade that will work with a ton of people (and that’s hard to do!).
This palette is stunning! I am so excited about how well it performed! I ordered it yesterday from Sephora (VIB Rouge) and will receive it tomorrow! Can’t wait!!
Yayy!! Can’t wait for you to get it Jocelyn. Please let me know how you like it once you get a chance to try it!
I’d sworn off of Tarte eye shadows after years of disappointing purchases. But a new, revamped formula, nice swatches, and a Temptalia “A” are making me think twice. Then again, the shades aren’t really unique, are they? They certainly don’t make me think of a rain forest or of the sea!
I really like it, but it is dupable – and if you already have a few neutral palettes, while lovely, it’s skippable for sure.
This looks so pretty, but I feel like the shades are dupe-able (which neutral palettes often are). Now begins the great internal debate: Would I rather try a new formula in shades that are similar to other palettes I have, or wait and see if they come out with something more original? #makeupaddictproblems
They’re dupable for sure 🙁 I feel like with Tarte, you’ll probably be waiting awhile for something… more original? They seem to be just more and more takes on mattes. But if you have one of MUFE’s more colorful palettes, then it might not matter. The formulas are definitely similar!
IDK, this is the same Tarte that shocked us with Manbun Lip Paint. Definitely some new sheriffs in town. I mean if old-fashioned, prim and proper Estee Lauder can launch yellow and black lipsticks along with shadows that give a “heavy metal eye look”, I think Tarte might have to up the ante and give us something even more shocking, maybe colorful glow-in-the-dark rainforest shadows?
From your lips to Tarte’s ears 😉
Man, I was really hoping you would give this a bad review so I wouldn’t want it! I have so many neutral palettes already but this is just so pretty!
Awww! I’d definitely go through what you own and see if you can convince yourself you have enough 🙂
A lot of brands are coming out with light “nude” palettes this year…. I wish this was permanent though or Tarte makes one with this formula in a permanent palette in the future.
It definitely seems like a good staple set of shades, but obviously a lot of us have plenty o’ neutrals to hold us over.
Yes and this one remind me of the Paris Nude palette from Viseart but had a few more mid tone browns. 😉
I love it! Darn. I was hoping not to. Even the packaging is winning me over. Ok..Do I NEED this???Lol..
My answer: My SOUL need this along with a long nap right now! That is justifiable,right? $34 is not a bad price tag really. I am totally talking myself into this!
lol! If you feel like you’d reach for it more often than other palettes, sure. If you have MUFE’s Nudes You Need, it gives me a similar “vibe,” though Tarte’s isn’t so frosted.
I do have The Nudes you Need along with a ton of other Nude palettes. I’m not usually a Tarte( besides the 2 Tartelettes)gal and the circular pattern is not my thing. But, I rally like this one. I may try to wait to check it out in store. Thanks for bonking me back down to Earth! 😀
Pretty, but the last thing I need is more shimmery nudes. Huge pass for me but I’m sure many will LOVE it.
I can see it being useful for some, assuming one doesn’t have a bunch of neutrals already!
I wish these brands would reconsider stacking palettes with SO MANY SHIMMERS!
Better than MUFE, though! You actually had some variance 🙂
Christine, do you know if the lipsticks in this collection are permanent or Limited? Sephora’s site doesn’t mention the status.
As far as I know, they are new and permanent. Tarte’s website indicates the eyeshadow and correcting palettes are LE, and then two brushes, I think, but not the lip products.
Ok,Good!Thank you! 🙂
I would love to test out Tarte’s new eye shadow formula! Unfortunately, it’s the most boring, dupe-able, palette I’ve seen. And I’ve seen a lot of neutral palettes! They could have made Seashell a pinky-pearl type duochrome that would still be approachable and wearable but slightly more interesting. IDK, I mean, I get that this is Tarte’s aesthetic, but….zzzzzzz
I totally understand!
Wave is so pretty! I might have to try the Clarins dupe.
Good ided!
Usually I wait for your review before I order something, but I ordered this yesterday and I’m so glad I did! Looking at my collection, most of my neutrals are matte, so this is a great addition to what I already have.
Yay! I hope you like it. Let us know!
I really wish they’d put a couple really dark colors in the center area. this just feels too soft, no potential for smoke or liner or a complete look.
That would be a good idea!
I would have totally bought this if it contained at least ONE medium toned matte shade, or a matte shade at all..
🙁 All Satin/shimmer finishes is a huge pass for me.
Oh, bummer!
This would had been perfect for my beach trip, but having no mattes is a total no go for me too
Well, dang, I like the sound of this new formula. Now I want to try it. It is a lovely palette. Part of me feels I should grab a couple super-light nude palettes while they are in vogue, as usually it’s hard to find ones that are pale skin friendly. First world problems. lol
I really liked it. So much easier to use if you don’t use primer, LOL!
Tarte is always giving colorful names to neutral palettes
Aww!
Looks like a lovely neutral palette, and affordable (even with the higher price per ounce). I love the packaging, and the long wear and quality definitely make this something I would buy. If I didn’t already have four other neutral palettes, I probably would buy it.
The $34 price tag feels right, even if it is, as you said, higher per ounce than the other palettes. I think it works out if you’re someone who doesn’t usually finish their products!
It really is another day time, warm toned neutral palette….. nothing really original here. Whilst it is lovely, it is hardly original and most of us have those kinds of colours in our stashes anyway.
I just wished Tarte would have included a teal, a green or a blue to make it relate to the sea somehow.
I totally get what you mean, Genevieve. Will be nice for someone with less neutrals in their stash already but redundant for some!
I’m going to the Caribbean next month and even though I have a million eyeshadows, I only wanted to take one small palette. I was thinking about the Gwen Stefani one but my sister has it and its pretty but clunky. I love that this one has lots of light shades, different finishes. Yeah the colours are kinda boring but in this case it suits my needs perfectly, in fact I ordered it as soon as I started reading and saw the grade 🙂
I think I might bring along my little zippered UD Fun palette in case I need a colour fix while I’m away, it will compliment this one nicely.
Sounds like it might be perfect for your trip, Kelly!
That’s great this got an A but I’ve got to agree with Nell, it’s too boring for me! I’ve got UD Naked 2 and 3 and even though they’re not new, they’re way more interesting than this palette! ?ditto, Nell!
I totally understand, Claire! Pretty but certainly a combo we’ve seen before!
Do we need another neutral palette? With a name like Rainforest of the Sea, I would exist blues and greens. After reading this review, I’m really hoping for more colors with the new formula.
It would be great to see more colors in their palettes!
Good for Tarte! With the new formula I hope they branch out from neutrals.
Here’s hoping! I’d love to see them do something really earthy, at least – more muted tones but still more than brown.
I love this, so it’s on the way, and because Lancome’s My French (? I think it was something silly-sounding like that) had shimmery neutrals, my favorite, with a pop of teal, I’m fine with it being left off–also, I never travel with just one palette, so I don’t care if things are all-inclusive like some do–although I have to say, I like the idea of carrying the contour palette and this for super-light packing someday.
I might be alone in wanting this, but I’m going to ask, anyway (feel free to say no or shoot the idea down!): I find sometimes that what I need to see immediately after your gorgeous eye looks (seriously, not just fawning, you are the only person whose eye shadow looks I “steal” on a regular basis, even to the point of begging you for your techniques and unofficial tutorials at times) is a full-face picture, because that is often when I think, I *really* have to try that look. Just an enlarged view–though it’s super-helpful for the colors/quality, doesn’t display the overall effect of the eye look as well, so what I always do is go hunting for similar brands/release dates or the review for, say, the blush you’re wearing and hope I guess right, so as to see the same eye look in a full look.
Given that you’ve made all these fabulous improvements to the site, is there room for just one more photo at the end of your reviews, showing your whole face? It’s fine if your shadow is mismatched, because one can still imagine how it would look with both eyes done the same, but it’s tough (for me, at least) to extrapolate from a single eye.
When next you’re making changes, if you’d at least consider it, I’d be grateful!
Thank you for the suggestion, Emily! When I am testing, it is usually not a full look – sometimes the cheeks can be totally jarring colors and I don’t typically wear foundation if I’m testing cheek products so I look horrible. The internet is not that kind, LOL! If you need to, you can see this eye look zoomed out in all of the Tarte-related face photos – e.g. the Skin Twinkle highlighting palette 🙂
Yes, I found it (and decided I love it, will have to try it myself!), thanks. You made me laugh with “the internet is not that kind”. I’ve seen few instances of that on your blog (as opposed to almost every article I read and non-makeup blogs), and when someone is mean to you, it tends to be only once, both because you handle it effectively and your regular readers are so loyal!
That makes perfect sense–not wanting to look silly. I’m already in awe of how you ‘put yourself out there’ on the internet; I didn’t want you to make yourself more vulnerable in any way. I was actually wondering if what would be possible would be adding the photo FROM the Skin Twinkle review (in this instance, for example) or the one from the ColourPop blush review at the end of the ColourPop eye shadow review. Is it not possible because they’re all done at different times, or would it just be too much work to go in and insert the photo later, when the full look is available? I definitely didn’t want to suggest anything that would be especially time-consuming…
I will keep using the information on the right-hand side of the page to search for the full-face looks, in that case! Thanks for explaining, anyway.
At some point, there will be adjustments made to try and make it easier to archive any “looks” simultaneously when reviewing and/or having the products linked – basically if I have a full look description, then relevant photos would then also be posted.
They are all over the place, and sometimes you’ll see a look from photos shot a week ago… even months ago (in some cases! not ideal!). I try to write down/keep track of what I’m wearing, but sometimes I miss, especially as close-up photos for the eyeshadow will be labeled as part of the photo set for the palette vs. a photo where I’m wearing a highlighter will be for the highlighter vs. a photo for a lip product will be for that lip product.
Would a more zoomed out photo be helpful at all? (http://imgur.com/xI7z4S0) Or is it really seeing all features/totally zoomed out? Thank you for feedback again! 🙂
I looked at the photo you linked several times and I honestly think what you use currently is just as helpful (for me, I mean–can’t speak for anyone else). It really is the “effect” of the whole face that sometimes demonstrates, for instance, why your eye shadow looks are so, well, effective. Blown-up somtimes they look very alike, but when I look at a full face, they can look very different.
You would laugh if you saw my Firefox folders: I have eye looks separated by color effect (light & shimmery, neutral, bronze/gold/green, colorful, and dark) and inside each folder is a link to about 25 to 60 of pages from temptalia.com. And I actually use it often! I’m sure many people just ‘key off’ your looks, but I tend to copy or else do my own thing completely.
As I said, you explained perfectly why it’s a tougher request than I thought it would be. I have to admit, I’ve almost always found what I was looking for using your search function and a little patience. It was just sort of a ‘wouldn’t it be great if…’ kind of thing.
The way you consider every suggestion is one reason your site is so great. Does it shock you sometimes, looking back to when you started, when there would be one or two (or no) comments? And now, it’s recognized that you’re a major reason bloggers are taken seriously by makeup companies and retail outlets. Kind of amazing, I bet.
Thank you! I appreciate your honest feedback. I will try to make a more concentrated effort to at least submit a look of any base look I do (basically one that I wear for a variety of swatches – so it is essentially a full, matching look) into our looks’ section (so then you could at least find any that are “full face” any time you click my profile and view looks – http://www.temptalia.com/members/temptalia/looks/). I just need to add it to my work flow in a place where I’m least likely to forget the step and make it a priority to do. Your feedback helps me understand how someone might use the site in a way that may not seem readily apparent to me on my end.
It is definitely surreal! I’m very lucky to have been able to do this for so long 🙂
I can see why people would say this pallette is a bit bland- one or two brighter colors might have been nice- but I’m quite impressed with the quality. Abyss in particular is a beautiful shade, imo.
The quality is awesome in this one!
It looks like a nice selection of almost all warm neutrals. The case is so pretty! I wish they offered a similar collection of almost all cool neutrals…
Don’t well all 🙁
I keep hoping that marketing people from cosmetic companies read these comments and notice how much demand there is for cool-toned products…
You and me both 🙁
I’m torn between this palette and either one of their Amazonian clay palettes. Which one would you suggest to get?
I prefer this, but my personal preference does lean towards this type of formula vs. traditional powder at this point. Make Up For Ever Artist Shadows are my favorite formula 🙂
WOW…. I TOTALLY NEED THIS IN MY LIFE!!!!
Hope you can try it sometime, Arpita!
No mattes, what!
I get that this Rainforest of the Sea collection is suppose to look au natural (or at least that’s the impression I’m getting), but I wish Tarte would come out with a colorful palette!?!? Especially after the launch of their liquid lipsticks. I’m not a neutral girl so I’m a bit bias but I think every brand should try to come out with a colorful, or semi colorful, palette. I predicted both Too Faced’s chocolate liquid lipsticks and matte liquid lipsticks so maybe after I press ‘Post comment’ we’ll see something colorful in the eyeshadow department from Tarte 😉
Two or three of them are more semi-matte/satin – more like natural matte than flat matte, but they weren’t full on shimmer 🙂
I wasn’t interested in this at first, because I’ve never been impressed by Tarte’s powder products. This new formula is making me reconsider.
It’s worth swatching if you can!
I… actually might pick this up. I’ll need to see it in person but considering the only eyeshadow palette I have at the moment is the Lorac Pro, this might be a nice addition to my vanity. I hit pan on Nude in the Pro and this seems to be a really nice collection of lighter nude-type shimmery colors for me. And the price is really good! It’s refreshing to see a sub-$40 palette in this sea of what seems to be $55+ palettes being released everywhere.
The go-to pricing for palette does seem to be right around $50!
This is lovely. I’m not sure my powers of resistance will hold. I think this will be mine.
I look forward to seeing if you try it, Ciara!
It’s obviously not the most exciting color palette ever, but the shades do look very nice and wearable!
They are nice!
The packaging is so pretty and I like that Christine is giving an overall very good review, but I agree that the shades are a little boring and definitely dupable. I have this in my cart right now – do I order it or not?? What to do, what to do….
That’s tough, Cathy! I don’t think it’s needed if you have lots of neutrals already. I would think about how often you reach for palettes and whether you already have a really solid, go-to neutral palette in your arsenal.
Christine will you be reviewing Too Faced’s Peanut butter and jelly palette? I’m thorn about getting or not and would love your thoughts on it!
Hopefully!
Glad the new formula performed well, but in all honesty, it’s just a bunch of boring neutrals……again. With a name like “rainforest of the sea” one would expect bold vibrant colours. Even the cover of the palette is way more exciting than the actual palette. I have enough neutrals in my life, so this is an easy pass. To Tarte: give me a call when you have something more exciting. I am intrigued by the new formula. Especially since it got a great review.
I get you, Primpcess — it’s not new or unique by any means. But here’s hoping they’ll keep this formula and use it again for something a little more interesting. Maybe we can get one pop of blue – baby steps!
I was hoping it would get a bad review so I wouldn’t have to purchase this beautiful thing :'(
Awww! Sorry!
The Starfish shade is gorgeous and unique – this definitely was not on my radar, but your review is definitely perking my interest!! Thanks for reviewing 🙂
No problem, Melissa!
I really love the soft, neutral shades in this adorable palette! But my preference leans towards everyday neutrals, so I’m biased. I’m wondering how the shade Wave compares to the Taupe shade Rocker in the Tartelette In Bloom palette?
You can pull up a side-by-side in the Swatch Gallery! I’m on mobile otherwise I’d do it for you 🙂
I am so on the fence about this palette! I absolutely love love love my tartelette palette and if these are an upgrade in formula, I’m sure I’ll love these too. And I have been on the look out for adding more shimmery shades to my collection. But I don’t know if I need a whole palette of them and at $41 CAD, I might wait until it comes out in stores to swatch it. But then again – I don’t want to miss out.
Have you tried any formulas like MUFE Artist/KVD Metal Crush? I know most people seem to like that type, but if you have and don’t, then maybe you wouldn’t like it!
I absolutely love this palette & Tarte! I think it’s gorgeous but…….I have all 3 chocolate bar palettes and it seems comparing them that I basically already have all these shades. I think it’s just my makeup obsession leading me to want to buy it!
Awww!
These colours are like, the perfect sands and seashells I’ve been dying for from a palette. I just ordered a bunch of tarte palettes and this was at the top of my list thanks to your sneak peaks, I’ll definitely report back with findings. The colours are so muted that it could work for all skin tones – I have two friends who don’t wear a lot of makeup and don’t like a huge colour pop, and I think this is going to be perfect for them. Simple, subtle, a little bit of sparkle.
Yay! So glad that this is going to work for you, Kristene 😀
The name of this collection makes me laugh so hard. Rainforest of the Sea—I’m expecting either greens and brights (rain forest) or blues (sea)…. and then we get BROWN hahahahaha
Sorry it disappointed you!
I love the packaging, ugh I just wish there were matte shades for the brow bone and crease. 🙁
Oh no!
I love the packaging design, but not feeling the colors.
Drats!
Is ULTA going to carry this at some point? Or will it be exclusive to Tarte and Sephora?
It’s exclusive Tarte/Sephora!
I want to first of all Thank You ! Christine for posting swatches as this palette hasn’t appeared in Sephora here in Canada as of yet !. I am such a huge sucker for neutral palette’s and this does look like a palette I could definitely work with. Honestly I would say they could’ve swapped the metal core in the centre of the palette for maybe a really nice pop of colour that would work well with all the other neutrals. Either way I will pick it up once it launches in 2 weeks :).
Always glad when I’m able to help, Carmen! 🙂 A pop of color in the center is a great idea! I like that better than a face product.
are the colors of this palette similar to de Naked 3 palette? i just own the naked 3 one and I want to get a new one but I’m not sure if this one is to similar to the one I have, I have medium to tan skin, any advice?
This is a lot less pink-based!
I bought it, if feels like it will give a good soft summer shimmer and go good with glowy sink
Am I the only one who had trouble building up color with this palette?
I haven’t heard too many reviews on this one!