So you could say I’m something of a palette junky – I love having a tonne of eyeshadow choice all in a nifty little package, but all too often what’s on the inside can get a bit same-y. Not so with Smashbox’s gorgeous new Double Exposure Palette which comes with 14 stunning colours as well as a rather handy double ended brush!
What really sets Double Exposure apart from it’s competitors is the fact that Smashbox have formulated the shadows to be used both wet and dry. This means you get to enjoy 28 shadows for the price (and space) of 12! It’s an ingenious idea really – the dry shadows turn metallic, sparkly or deeper when dampened, so if you’re looking to create easy, multidimensional looks, the palette is perfect!
As if the multi-use shadows weren’t clever enough, I just love the way the palette is laid out. The first six shades on the left are all cool tones, the middle two are a shimmery silver white and black, whilst the six shades on the right are stunning warm tones.
I’ve never tried Smashbox shadows before, and I have been so impressed with the quality of them! All the colours apply like a dream, with an almost creamy consistency and great colour payoff – even the lighter, metallic shades are easy to apply!
I usually end up plumping for the warmer shades of day, and using the cooler ones when I’m creating a smoky eye look. It’s the perfect mix of neutrals, as I think it would really work with all skin tones. On a day-to-day basis I use the taupe brown (last shadow on the bottom row) over my lid, line with the black shadow and use a little of the top right shade bone as a highlight. It’s a super easy look that looks and feels super sophisticated.
The wear-time of the shadows is great too – I use Laura Mercier’s eye primer before applying, and the shadows stick around all day without creasing or fading. Even the metallic shades stay shiny well into the afternoon, and if I feel like I do want to refresh the colour, I normally just pat a little on using a finger. What I also want to mention is the double ended brush which comes with the palette – it’s amazing!
When you’re spending a tonne on a palette, I hate when you just get a couple of dinky foam applicators (Chanel, I’m looking at you) so getting a full sized double ended brush is a godsend. The angled end is great for creating an easy, subtle line, whilst the domed end applies colour beautifully evenly.
Smashbox Double Exposure costs £37.00 and is available here (UK) and here (US)
