In the ever-evolving world of beauty and cosmetics, finding the perfect eyeshadow palette can feel like a quest for the Holy Grail. With an overwhelming array of options, from high-end luxury brands to budget-friendly drugstore finds, the search for that ideal palette—one that combines vibrant pigmentation, a variety of shades and finishes, long-lasting durability, and a texture that glides on like a dream—is no small feat. As we step into 2024, the landscape of eyeshadow palettes continues to expand, offering beauty enthusiasts an even wider selection to choose from. Whether you're a makeup aficionado or someone who prefers a more minimalist approach, understanding the key factors that make an eyeshadow palette stand out is essential.
Pigmentation is often the first thing we notice when swatching eyeshadows. The intensity of color payoff can vary significantly between palettes, with some offering rich, deeply saturated hues that require just a single swipe, while others may need a bit of layering to truly pop. Variety, too, plays a crucial role in the appeal of a palette. A well-curated selection of shades and finishes can inspire endless creativity, allowing for everything from subtle daytime looks to dramatic evening eyes. However, the beauty of a palette isn't just skin deep. Durability and texture are equally important, with the best palettes boasting formulas that last all day without creasing or fading and textures that range from buttery mattes to dazzling metallics. And let's not forget about portability—a compact, travel-friendly design can make your favorite shades your constant companions, ready at a moment's notice for any touch-ups or transitions your day (or night) might require.
As we dive into the best eyeshadow palettes of 2024, our guide aims to navigate you through this colorful landscape, highlighting the standout features that can help you find your perfect match. Whether you're drawn to the luxurious allure of high-end brands or the accessible quality of drugstore gems, our insights will ensure that your next eyeshadow palette is not just a purchase, but an investment in your beauty routine.
Urban Decay Naked Reloaded: Versatile Neutrals with a Modern Twist
Urban Decay Naked Reloaded Eyeshadow Palette -- $50(Urban Decay US)
URBAN DECAY Naked Reloaded Eyeshadow Palette -- $15(Whatnot)
Urban Decay Naked Reloaded Palette -- $32(Whatnot)
Why We Picked It
The Urban Decay Naked Reloaded palette is a modern twist on the classic range of neutrals, offering a versatile selection of shades that cater to both day and night looks. Its buttery textures and long-lasting wear make it a standout choice for those seeking quality and performance in their eyeshadow. The palette's ability to create a wide range of looks from a single collection ensures its place as a must-have in any makeup enthusiast's collection.
Who It's For
This palette is perfect for makeup lovers looking for a versatile, high-quality eyeshadow palette that can transition from day to night effortlessly. It's especially suited for those who appreciate the blendability and longevity of their eyeshadows. However, it might not be the best fit for someone who prefers matte finishes exclusively, as some shimmer shades may experience fallout.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Versatile range of neutrals suitable for both day and night looks | ❌ Some shimmer shades may have fallout |
| ✅ Buttery textures and long-lasting wear | ❌ Price may vary, making it important to shop around for the best deal |
| ✅ Modern twist on classic neutrals | ❌ May not cater to those who prefer exclusively matte palettes |
Anastasia Beverly Hills Soft Glam: Versatile Glam for Every Occasion
Anastasia Beverly Hills Soft Glam Eyeshadow Palette -- $40(cw- official)
Anastasia Beverly Hills - Mini Soft Glam Deluxe Trio -- $45(Amazon)
Anastasia Beverly Hills - Soft Glam II Mini Eyeshadow Palette -- $29(Anastasia Beverly Hills)
Anastasia Beverly Hills - Soft Glam Deluxe Trio -- $49(Poshmark)
Soft Glam Eye Shadow Palette by Anastasia Beverly Hills in Gold, Nylon a... -- $45(Anthropologie)
Anastasia Beverly Hills - Eyeshadow Palette - Soft Glam -- $45(Sephora)
Why We Picked It
The Anastasia Beverly Hills Soft Glam collection is celebrated for its versatility and high-quality formulation, offering a range of eyeshadow palettes and deluxe trios that cater to both everyday looks and more glamorous occasions. With a mix of matte and shimmer finishes, these products are designed to create soft, romantic eye makeup looks. The high pigmentation and blendability of the shadows make them a favorite among makeup enthusiasts, while the inclusion of lip products in the deluxe trios allows for a complete, coordinated look. The collection's focus on soft, wearable shades with the option to dial up the intensity for evening wear makes it a valuable addition to any makeup collection.
Who It's For
This collection is best suited for individuals who appreciate versatile makeup that can transition from day to night. It's ideal for those who love creating soft, romantic looks but also enjoy the option of adding a bit more glamour when the occasion calls for it. The high pigmentation and blendability will appeal to both makeup beginners and enthusiasts looking for quality products. However, those who prefer a less powdery formula or are looking for very bold, vibrant colors might want to explore other options.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Highly pigmented and blendable shades | ❌ Soft powder formula may be too powdery for some |
| ✅ Versatile matte and shimmer finishes for day to night looks | ❌ Price point may be high for budget-conscious buyers |
| ✅ Deluxe trios include coordinated lip products for a complete look | ❌ Color range may not satisfy those seeking bold, vibrant looks |
Pat McGrath Labs Mothership VIII - Divine Rose II: Best High-End Eyeshadow Palette
PAT MCGRATH Mothership VIII: Divine Rose II -- $128(Sophia Beauty Room)
PAT McGRATH LABS Mothership VIII Divine Rose II Rose Gold Limited Editio... -- $128.6(Mercari)
Why We Picked It
The Pat McGrath Labs Mothership VIII - Divine Rose II palette is chosen for its luxurious packaging and high-quality, unique shades that offer makeup enthusiasts and professionals a range of high-impact colors with exceptional payoff. The palette's carefully curated colors and finishes allow for the creation of a multitude of looks, from subtle to dramatic, making it a versatile addition to any makeup collection.
Who It's For
This palette is best suited for makeup aficionados and professionals who appreciate premium quality eyeshadows and are willing to invest in a high-end product. It's perfect for those who enjoy experimenting with bold colors and textures and who seek long-lasting wear and intense pigmentation. However, it may not be the best fit for individuals on a tight budget or those who prefer a more minimalistic makeup approach.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Luxurious, high-quality packaging | ❌ High price point may not be accessible for all |
| ✅ Unique, high-impact color selection | ❌ Limited edition status can make it hard to acquire |
| ✅ Exceptional color payoff and blendability | ❌ May include bold shades not suitable for everyday wear for some |
Huda Beauty New Nude Palette: Redefining Nude Eyeshadows
Huda Beauty The New Nude Palette -- $110.5(BrandListry)
Huda Beauty The New Nude Eyeshadow Palette -- $65(Glamai)
Why We Picked It
The Huda Beauty New Nude Palette offers a fresh take on nude eyeshadows, featuring a versatile mix of matte, metallic, and shimmery shades that cater to a wide range of skin tones. Its creamy formula is easy to blend, allowing for seamless and effortless application.
Who It's For
This palette is ideal for makeup enthusiasts and professionals who appreciate high-quality eyeshadow formulas and seek a diverse range of nude shades. It's particularly well-suited for those who prefer a more warm-toned or pinkish-red nude color scheme.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Versatile range of matte, metallic, and shimmery shades | ❌ May lean too heavily on pink/red tones for some preferences |
| ✅ Creamy and blendable formula | ❌ Relatively expensive compared to some drugstore options |
| ✅ Caters to a wide range of skin tones | ❌ Limited shade range for cooler nude tones |
Too Faced Born This Way The Natural Nudes: Best for Natural Beauty Enthusiasts
Too Faced Born This Way The Natural Nudes Eyeshadow Palette -- $43.99(Walmart - Excell Trading, Inc.)
Too Faced Born This Way Warm Ember Nudes Mini Eyeshadow Palette -- $29(Sephora)
Too Faced Eyeshadow Palette Born This Way The Natural Nudes Eye Shadow -- $40(eBay - trulypink1)
Too Faced Born This Way The Natural Nudes Eye Shadow Palette Full Size -- $21(eBay - momart189)
Too Faced Born This Way The Natural Nudes Eyeshadow Palette New In Box -... -- $22(Mercari)
Why We Picked It
The Too Faced Born This Way The Natural Nudes palette is selected for its versatile range of natural shades that complement the Born This Way foundation line. It's designed to flatter all skin tones with its selection of neutral hues, making it an ideal choice for creating everyday looks that enhance one's natural beauty.
Who It's For
This palette is perfect for individuals who appreciate a more natural, subtle look and want a range of shades that can be used for both simple day wear and slightly more dramatic evening wear. It's not the best fit for those who prefer vibrant, colorful eyeshadows or who are looking for a palette to create bold, artistic makeup looks.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Flattering shades for all skin tones | ❌ Lacks variety for bold makeup lovers |
| ✅ Versatile for day-to-night looks | ❌ May not be suitable for those seeking bright colors |
| ✅ Complements the Born This Way foundation line | ❌ Limited in creating more avant-garde looks |
Charlotte Tilbury Luxury Palette - Pillow Talk: Best Romantic Eyeshadow Palette
Charlotte Tilbury Luxury Palette - Pillow Talk -- $55(Charlotte Tilbury)
Charlotte Tilbury Luxury Palette - Pillow Talk Dreams -- $55(Sephora)
Charlotte Tilbury PILLOW TALK LUXURY PALETTE - New Beauty | Color: Beige -- $47(Mercari)
Why We Picked It
The Charlotte Tilbury Luxury Palette - Pillow Talk is a curated collection of eyeshadows that encapsulates the essence of the Pillow Talk range, known for its universally flattering shades. It's a go-to choice for those seeking to create soft, romantic eye makeup looks with a touch of luxury.
Who It's For
This palette is ideal for makeup enthusiasts who adore pink and champagne tones and prefer a sophisticated, yet natural eye look. It's perfect for everyday wear or special occasions. However, it might not be the best fit for someone looking for a wide variety of colors in a single palette.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Part of the iconic Pillow Talk collection | ❌ Limited variety with only four shades |
| ✅ Dreamy pink and champagne shades | ❌ May not cater to those who prefer bold or diverse color options |
| ✅ Perfect for creating soft, romantic eyes | ❌ Price point may be high for a four-shade palette |
Natasha Denona Glam Palette: Elegant Cool-Toned Eyeshadow Palette
Natasha Denona Makeup | Natasha Denona Glam Palette | Color: Brown | Siz... -- $7.99(Walmart - wellmatch)
Why We Picked It
The Natasha Denona Glam Palette is celebrated for its high-quality, cool-toned neutrals that cater to a wide range of makeup enthusiasts. Its intuitive layout simplifies application, making it a versatile choice for both beginners and seasoned pros. The palette's exceptional quality and thoughtful design underscore its value, offering a sophisticated array of shades for creating both day and night looks.
Who It's For
This palette is ideal for individuals who prefer cool-toned neutrals and are looking for a high-quality, versatile eyeshadow palette. It's perfect for makeup enthusiasts at any skill level, from beginners who appreciate the intuitive layout to professionals seeking exceptional pigmentation and blendability. However, those with warmer skin tones may want to test the shades, as cool tones may not complement all skin tones equally.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Range of high-quality, cool-toned neutrals | ❌ Cool tones may not suit all skin tones |
| ✅ Intuitive layout designed for easy application | ❌ Price point may be high for some budgets |
| ✅ Versatile for both beginners and professionals | ❌ Limited to neutral looks, may not cater to those seeking vibrant colors |
Morphe x James Charles Palette: Best Palette for Creative Expression
Morphe x James Charles - The Mini Palette -- $79.99(Bonanza - Authentic Makeup)
Morphe X James Charles Original Artistry 39 Shade Eyeshadow Palette -- $80(eBay)
Why We Picked It
The Morphe x James Charles Palette is chosen for its extensive color range and high-quality formula, which allows for a multitude of creative makeup looks. The pigmentation and blendability of the eyeshadows make it a go-to choice for those who love to experiment with bold and vibrant eye makeup.
Who It's For
This palette is perfect for makeup enthusiasts and artists who crave variety and the ability to create a wide range of looks, from everyday neutrals to dramatic evening glam. It's also a great fit for fans of James Charles or those who appreciate influencer-designed makeup products.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Wide range of vibrant colors | ❌ Large palette size may be inconvenient for travel |
| ✅ Highly pigmented and blendable formula | ❌ Higher price point compared to some other palettes |
| ✅ Two size options for versatility | ❌ Mini palette still relatively large for small storage |
Tarte Tartelette In Bloom Clay Palette: Best Everyday Eye Palette
TARTE Tartelette In Bloom Palette -- $28(Sophia Beauty Room)
Why We Picked It
The Tarte Tartelette In Bloom Clay Palette is chosen for its versatile range of shades that cater to everyday makeup looks. Its blend of matte and shimmer finishes allows for both subtle and dramatic eye makeup, while the long-wearing clay formula ensures that your look stays put throughout the day. This palette is celebrated for its ability to enhance any eye color, making it a staple in many makeup collections.
Who It's For
This palette is ideal for individuals who prefer a more natural or neutral eye makeup look and appreciate a mix of finishes. It's especially suited for those who value a long-lasting formula that can take them from day to night. However, it may not be the best fit for someone who is looking for very bright or bold colors in their eyeshadow palette.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ User-friendly mix of matte and shimmer shades | ❌ May lack vibrancy for those desiring bold shades |
| ✅ Long-wearing clay formula | ❌ Limited color range for creative looks |
| ✅ Complements all eye colors | ❌ Price may be a concern for budget-conscious buyers |
Fenty Beauty Snap Shadows Mix & Match Eyeshadow Palette: Best Customizable Eyeshadow Palette
Fenty Beauty by Rihanna Snap Shadows Mix & Match Eyeshadow Palette, Size... -- $30(Fenty Beauty)
Fenty Beauty Snap Shadows Mix & Match Eyeshadow Palette In Rose -- $25(eBay - kaitborris)
Fenty Beauty Snap Shadows Mix & Match Eyeshadow Palette Shade 4 Rose -- $17.88(eBay)
Fenty Beauty Snap Shadows Mix & Match Eyeshadow Palette In (4 Rose) -- $28.99(eBay - gelesgift2012)
Snap Shadows Mix & Match Eyeshadow Palette -- $30(Glamai)
Why We Picked It
The Fenty Beauty Snap Shadows Mix & Match Eyeshadow Palette stands out for its innovative design that allows users to snap two palettes together, creating a customized color range. The eyeshadows are known for their creamy and blendable formula, making application a breeze for both beginners and makeup enthusiasts.
Who It's For
This palette is perfect for individuals who love to experiment with their look and appreciate the ability to customize their eyeshadow options. It's also great for those who prefer a high-quality, blendable eyeshadow formula. However, it might not be the best fit for someone looking for a single palette with a wide variety of shades.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Innovative snap-together customization feature | ❌ Limited versatility with only six shades per palette |
| ✅ Creamy, blendable formula for easy application | ❌ May require purchasing multiple palettes for a broad color range |
| ✅ Compact size ideal for travel or on-the-go touch-ups | ❌ Price point may be high for the number of shades provided |
Excited to help you find the perfect eyeshadow palette! Need more recommendations or have questions? I'm here to assist. Let's enhance those eyes together!