Stila Cosmetics Shape and Shade Collection Review: Custom Contour Duo

I love the way skillful contouring defines the face, accentuates certain features and plays up your natural beauty. Although shaping and adding structure may be essential to dramatic, glam transformations I don’t always have time for excessive Kim Kardashian-like contouring. Thankfully Stila came out with the handy little Shape and Shade Custom Contour Duo equipped with a helpful guide to assist you through the process no matter what shape your face.

The duos are available in 3 earthy color combos with light, medium and deep contour shades paired with flattering highlight colors. The undertones are designed to create a natural, flawless finish with no streaking or caking. I have used quite a few products for shading and dimension but recently I have been on the hunt for a good cream palette. Personally I prefer creams because they blend well to prevent patchy inconsistent application and the texture fades to create a soft, seamless finish that harmonizes with the rest of my makeup. Some powders I've used have settled on the surface of my skin leaving an unpolished, unblended dark streak that I absolutely detest!

I have the palette in the medium duo- the darker shade sculpts, corrects and minimizes while the lighter shade highlights and enhances. Although medium looks quite deep in the pan it is not as dark as I anticipated and shows up as a light beige-brown on my complexion. I make the color work for me by building up the coverage and I don’t usually contour with colors that are too vivid, heavy or noticeable. The highlight has a nice peachy undertone so it does not appear too white or off-putting and it has some great concealing benefits for under the eyes. If you prefer a sharper contrast then I’d recommend checking out the deepest palette.

The smooth, soft texture is easy to work with and you can apply it lightly for a natural, subtle effect or layer it heavier for dramatic, sharp angles. The countering 101 booklet will show you where to apply each shade for best results which makes the palette great for both beginners and experienced artists.

Stila Contouring Charts: 

I also like that the formula is infused with line filling technology to blur imperfections and leave skin even and defined without accentuating blemishes and imperfections. The finish is supposed to transform from cream to matte for long-wear coverage although it seems to remain very creamy and transferable so I recommend setting it. The lighter shade is great for brightening the face and awakening the complexion but I recommend using it sparingly because a little goes a long way and the contrast should not be extremely noticeable.

The deep contour shade can be applied in the hollows of the face to accentuate the cheek bones and it can even create a slimming effect. Although I don’t really need to change the shape of my nose I do occasionally apply the cream along the sides to create an elongated effect and extra definition. You can use the palette to sculpt the jaw line, the shape of your entire face and even the neck and shoulders, contouring can be very magical when done right!

The palette is made even better by the dual ended Shape and Shade Custom Contour Brush (sold separately). This artistry inspired tool has a flat head that is designed for precise application and efficient sculpting. The larger end is ideal for the cheekbones and around the perimeter of the face while the small end is suitable for the delicate eye area and the nose.

A little contouring and highlighting + the Stila Stay All Day Brow Gel

The quality of the brush is excellent and the sturdy, expertly cut bristles are perfect for buffing in the cream to create a flawless finish and great results. The contour duo retails for $52.00 and the brush is $59.00.

Stila’s spring collection is now available at Shoppers Drug Mart, Murale and Murale.ca 

*Press samples featured