Eyes: MUA Luxe Paradise Palette

I wanted to talk about something non-nail related today: the MUA Luxe Paradise eyeshadow palette.

I bought this in Superdrug for £8 a while ago, it is no longer showing on the website but you can still purchase it directly from the MUA site for the same price.

From what I've seen previously from MUA, and with it being such a budget friendly brand, I am really impressed with the packaging.  Firstly, it comes in a beautiful, art deco styled cardboard outer (which seems a shame not to keep!) and the shades are shown both on the front and reverse of the packaging.  The palette itself is in a plain, glossy black clip case with the branding in gold on the front and a large mirror inside.  It is rather compact in size too, so ideal to take on holiday or if you're staying overnight somewhere.

The 'Paradise' palette includes 10 pink, purple, gold and copper shades.  The majority of eyeshadows I already own are in the bronze/brown colour scheme so, if you're anything like me, this offers some slightly different shades that are still wearable for everyday.  The eyeshadows look really velvety and luxurious in the packaging and have no dividers or spaces between them which I think makes the palette look even prettier, though I can imagine accidentally picking up the neighbouring colour on your brush if you're not careful. The palette doesn't include an applicator but this isn't really an issue as I don't often use the brush included with palettes anyway.  Finally, the shades all have a shimmer to them which I like but if you're not a fan then this palette won't be for you, there's no matte here.

The eyeshadows are described as smooth and silky on the packaging and they are certainly that.  They apply easily and can be blended well to create different looks.  Some of the shades might need to be builded up in order to make more of an impact but they certainly do not lack pigment.  I have worn a few of the different colours during the day without a primer and they have lasted for several hours with minimal creasing.

The following swatches are shown over a primer:

With LED light



With flash

The shimmer in the eyeshadows helps to create a metallic look which has been popular this year and looks set to continue through autumn and winter.  I feel that between the light peaches and pinks and the darker bronzes and purples, this palette can be used to create both daytime and nighttime looks so it is sure to get plenty of use.

Has anyone else bought this palette? What do you think of it?