Maybelline New York's City Mini Palettes are some kind of platonic ideal — with six shades and a conveniently small compact, you've got the best of both worlds: It's just enough colors to create a few distinct looks on the go. There are lots to choose from, but Downtown Sunrise might just be our favorite — it's comprised mostly of neutrals, with a couple pops of color: a shimmery pale pink, and a bold warm peach with gold shimmer. So flattering.
Looking for ultra-smooth, flattering neutral metallics? You've found it with Catrice's The Bronze Collection Eyeshadow Palette. The shades are all beautifully wearable, with a gorgeous shimmery texture that applies like butter. In fact, we'd even go so far as to compare it to Urban Decay's iconic Naked 3 Eyeshadow Palette...
Here's a palette for the adventurous: The Morphe 12Z Zodiac Smokey Eye Palette is filled to the brim with a mélange of moody jewel tones, from silvery teal, to royal purple, to sparkly gold. Standouts include a duo-chrome brown and a high-shine silver, though all of the shades are quite lovely. You've got a lot to play with with this vibrant palette, which works especially well for creating looks for a night on the town.
Mattes are in, and smoky eyes are always in, so you pretty much can't go wrong with the E.L.F. Mad for Matte Holy Smokes Palette. A silky finish and a whole lotta color payoff seal the deal: You get a lot of bang for your buck with this budget eye shadow palette. The shade selection is great as well, with a good mix of lighter bases, nude neutrals for blending and dramatic pops of color.
CYO's a new brand that's definitely worth checking out next time you find yourself wandering the beauty aisle at Walgreens. Their Rainbow Warrior palette makes for a nice staple — it's filled with an array of flattering soft-focus pinks, rose golds, and neutrals. The shimmers are especially pretty, and here's a fun little bonus: The palette also includes a primer, highlighter and two cream shadows. Oh, and the full-sized mirror is a major plus, especially at this price point.
