Urban Decay Backtalk Palette – Review & Swatches

Summer is the time to let go of inhibitions, check a few goals off your bucket list and slip into that sexy sun dress you’ve been dying to wear. If you’re looking for a multipurpose palette that can go from formal to fun you should definitely get your hands on Urban Decay’s latest creation.

Backtalk is the kind of palette you will want to take on vacation to create effortless looks and slip in your tote for romantic weekend getaways. It is perfect for daily wear and stunning on all skin tones.

This portable palette has a unique structural design that forms a mini vanity! Pop it open to reveal a row of gorgeous eye shadows alongside 2 must-have blushes and 2 radiant highlighters. Each side is divided by a double-sided removable mirror and when you’re done creating your masterpiece, the whole thing folds-up (pretty neat).

The shadows are luxuriously silky, highly pigmented, buildable, non-creasing and long-lasting. When applied over UD’s Primer Potion, the colors stand-out vividly and blend easily with bold saturation. My favourite shade is Attitude - a dusty rose with a pop of metallic brilliance but there is enough variety to create both neutral effects and dramatic intensity. The only thing I would add is another matte crease shade in deep burgundy or dark brown but I can always turn to my Naked Heat Palette for backup. You also get a nice brow highlight and a couple pretty transition shades to help pull your entire look together.

The Blushes instantly revive dull skin and the rich, velvety texture blends seamlessly! Cheap Shot is a gorgeous pink-mauve that provides a natural flush and Double Take is a soft coral that looks amazing on sunkissed skin. The two highlighters pair well with the blush and the smooth, lightweight shimmer instantly brightens the face for a lustrous bombshell glow.

The Palette retails for $59.00. Urban Decay is available at freestanding stores, Sephora, Shoppers Drug Mart, and online at urbandecay.ca. Don`t forget to sign up for the Beauty Junkies Rewards Program to earn and redeem points.

Urban Decay Naked Petite Heat Palette Review

When the Naked Heat Palette came out I was obsessed...I still am. Personally, I think it is one of the best eye shadow palettes UD has ever released (if you’re into warm, sultry shades) and I use it almost every day. Recently the brand released a mini sequel – the Petite Heat ($36.00), featuring 6 full-size matte hues in a portable palm-sized compact.

For avid travelers like myself, this little palette is very convenient. You get a great selection of sculpting, blending, transition, base and highlighting shades that follow the same spicy color scheme as Naked Heat. The pretty pigments mix and match with many other shadows in my collection to create beautiful contrast and definition.

The only thing missing is a couple shimmery shadows for the lids (I like a little glam) but other than that, these seductive neutrals are essential for creating smoldering effects, especially when used with gold, bronze and garnet hues (some of my favorite combos).

As expected, the texture is velvety, rich and blendable with fabulous color payoff and longevity. I have no problem with creasing or fading so this palette will definitely be coming with me to Asia later this week.

Click HERE for my review & swatches of the Naked Heat Collection. Urban Decay is available at freestanding stores, Sephora, Shoppers Drug Mart, and online at urbandecay.ca. Don`t forget to sign up for the Beauty Junkies Rewards Program to earn and redeem points.

Urban Decay Jean-Michel Basquiat Collection – Gold Griot Eye Shadow Palette Review

Urban Decay has had some fabulous makeup collaborations over the years and the new Jean-Michel Basquait Collection is no exception. The American born artist was a pioneer for the neo-expressionist movement and his graffiti was a fixture around lower Manhattan. Jean-Michel’s iconic art is still exhibited all over the world and his use of varied texture and intense color has inspired a beautiful array of vibrant makeup. The range includes 3 lipsticks, 3 eye pencils, a multipurpose blush palette and two shadow palettes – bright and neutral. The packaging is wrapped in canvas to make the artwork pop and each palette has a cutout at the back so you can hang them on the wall. I will be reviewing the collection in three separate articles to emphasize the beauty of each piece but you can also purchase all of the items as a set in the UD Jean-Michel Vault for $299.00.

Last week I featured the beautiful Tenant Eye Shadow Palette (which you can check out by clicking HERE) and today I’m showcasing the neutral side of the collection for those who prefer something less dramatic. Gold Griot contains a mix of warm hues including sparkling bronze and golden tones offset by deep navy and grey. The finishes range from matte, metallic, shimmer and satin to create interesting textural contrast.

The first 5 shades are perfect for everyday wear and you can deepen them for evening events. Earthy undertones are great for summer and they look beautiful on sunkissed skin. The buttery mid-tone brown with orange tinge is one of my favorite crease contour shades while the pale nudes are great for transitioning and highlighting the brow bone. I love the smooth texture and the mattes have a lovely creaminess that blends well, feels luxurious and offers rich intensity with no creasing or fading.

I find the artwork on the box is a little spooky but in a fun, graffiti art kind of way. 

The last few shades in the palette are wildcards since they don't quite mesh with the coppery-neutral theme. That being said, the navy and grey combine beautifully to create a stunning smokey eye and the metallic gold emits brightness that amps-up your entire look. 

All of the shadows have amazing color payoff so you can enhance the saturation without much effort especially when used with UD’s Primer Potion. This palette is simple, pretty and highly usable so if you need these shades (and let’s face it, we all do) the quality is fantastic!

You can find Urban Decay Cosmetics at Sephora, Shoppers Drug Mart, UD freestanding stores and online at urbandecay.ca plus sign up for the Beauty Junkies Rewards Program to gain and redeem points for special rewards!

Urban Decay Jean-Michel Basquiat Collection – Tenant Eye Shadow Palette Review

Urban Decay has had some fabulous makeup collaborations over the years and the new Jean-Michel Basquait Collection is no exception. The American born artist was a pioneer for the neo-expressionist movement and his graffiti was a fixture around lower Manhattan. Jean-Michel’s iconic art is still exhibited all over the world and his use of varied texture and intense color has inspired a beautiful array of vibrant makeup. The range includes 3 lipsticks, 3 eye pencils, a multipurpose blush palette and two shadow palettes – bright and neutral. The packaging is wrapped in canvas to make the artwork pop and each palette has a cutout at the back so you can hang them on the wall. I will be reviewing the collection in three separate articles to emphasize the beauty of each piece but you can also purchase all of the items as a set in the UD Jean-Michel Vault for $299.00.

The Tenant Eye Shadow Palette contains bold, vivacious hues and since I wear colors like this all the time (it’s all about blending and technique), they are definitely my style! There are 8 shades with shimmer, micro-shimmer, matte and satin finishes and the pigmentation is fantastic. Some colors are more intense than others but they are all very buildable and versatile with smooth, highly blendable textures that are crease and fade resistant. To amp-up the colors even more, use UD’s famous Primer Potion (my all time fave).

The first four shades (pale pink, bright pink, aubergine/purple and black) aren’t really unique as far as new colors go but they do look stunning. Most of the shadows in the palette can be used on their own - simply concentrate the pigment on the lids and fade it out gradually into the crease and up towards the brows to create a nice gradient. Finish by accentuating the eyes with sharp, black liner and you’re good to go. You can also mix and match to create exotic combinations and interesting effects. For example – I love how the bright pink looks with the teal, purple or blue. Don't be afraid to experiment and unleash your inner artist.

The last 4 shadows are my personal favorite and I can’t wait to experiment with the bright green shimmer that is almost neon lime. The teal and deep blue are exquisite and they have the best consistency in the palette – rich and silky for a striking finish! On their own they are definitely showstoppers but combined they remind of the tropics.

If you are on the hunt of a dynamic collection of colors then this edgy little palette is amazing and retails for $49.00. If you prefer neutral hues (or a little of both) stay tuned for my review on the Gold Griot Palette.

You can find Urban Decay Cosmetics at Sephora, Shoppers Drug Mart, UD freestanding stores and online at urbandecay.ca plus sign up for the Beauty Junkies Rewards Program to gain and redeem points for special rewards!

Urban Decay Liquid Moondust Eye Shadow Review

This year Urban Decay has really raised the bar when it comes to extreme glitter and they refer to the new Moondust Eye Shadows as the “sparkliest of them all.” I am a huge fan of the pressed Moondust pigments but admittedly cream shadows are not my cup of tea. I usually find the formulas messy, hard to work with and a bit uncomfortable but since I love UD I thought they might be one of the only brands that could change my mind.

When it comes to intense, iridescent sparkle this range has it going on! The shade selection is beautiful and the names are fitting since they do look otherworldly. The finish has a 3-D metallic effect to resemble shimmering diamonds (which is stunning) and although they are meant to be eye shadows I see no reason why you couldn’t get creative and use them on the lips...isn’t a glamorous pout on-fleek?

The packaging is clear so you can see the colors and they sort-of look like lip gloss (I was totally fooled). The applicator is a small pointed brush which allows you to use the pigment as eyeliner but the size and shape makes all-over lid application a bit difficult. If the pigments are meant to be “eye shadow’’ I would have preferred a more suitable applicator to reduce the amount of stokes it takes to achieve even, opaque coverage. I also recommend shaking or mixing the pigment prior to use because the liquid and glitter may separate resulting in sheer, damp, patchy color. 

Now let’s talk about that wet, creamy consistency that makes me avoid liquid shadow all-together. I don’t really like the damp, cool texture against my skin especially since it doesn’t dry right away. I also have to blink carefully so the wet glitter doesn't transfer (I have no patience for the clean-up). Like most liquid shadow accompanied by small liner brushes, many of the shades initially apply streaky but with a few well placed layers some of them can be evened out for mediocre coverage.

The shade that delivered most in terms of color pay-off was the purple - (Magentic) and the least usable was Chem Trial which swatched thin, watery and clumpy.

(From top to bottom) Spacetime, zap, Magentic, Chem Trial, Zodiac, Recharged and Solice.

Most shades are very sheer but some have the ability to be intensified a bit more. The cream is watery but dries down like a lacquer which keeps the pigment in place and actually seems less messy to work with than pressed or loose glitter. Unfortunately the streaky appearance was not so neat but I didn't experience much transfer, creasing or fading and very few particles stray or scatter once everything sets.

Overall I think these multi-dimensional, brilliant shades are fun to play around with if you are looking for a soft wash of glitter but most didn't deliver the smooth, even, vividness I expected. The shadows retail for $29.00 each and are available at Sephora, Shoppers Drug Mart, sephora.ca and urbandecay.ca.

NEW UD Beauty Junkies Rewards Program! 

When you join the new UD Beauty Junkies Rewards Program every purchase made at urbandecay.ca or freestanding stores earns you points that are redeemable for special rewards! As points accumulate ($20 and $30 rewards) you can use them to buy the products you crave. Membership also includes special access to limited edition items, promotions, gifts and more! For program details click HERE. 

Urban Decay Naked Ultimate Basics Eye Shadow Palette Review

When it comes to eye shadow many of us enjoy bright bold hues, shimmers, glitters and flashy metallics but every girl needs a set of basics in her collection. When you have the fundamentals you can highlight, blend, sculpt, shape and transition like an artist and the shades in the new Naked Ultimate Basics Palette helps bring everything together for optimum cohesiveness and professional results.  

The palette has a sleek, sturdy gold case with large mirror and double-ended brush plus you get 12 all-new must-have neutrals!

When it comes to shade selection this palettes has a lot of great options ranging from soft tones, mid range hues and deep contour colors with cool and warm undertones. Every shadow has a nice matte finish which is preferable when using these particular shades and they are quite buildable which provides versatility.

Although the top row may have one too many cream shadows for my taste, there is still a well rounded array including: jet black, reddish-brown, burnt orange, grey, taupe, two neutral mid-tone browns and more!

The rich, buttery texture has the perfect hint of creaminess for seamless blending and the pigmentation is highly saturated with the ability to layer full-coverage should you choose to showcase their full potential. I also like that you can achieve a nice fade on the darker shadows for smokey effects and I had no problem with creasing or fading.

If you are looking for a great collection of neutrals to compliment a wide variety of palettes in your collection this one is great quality and very useable. It retails for $68.00 At Sephora, Shoppers Drug Mart, sephora.ca and urbandecay.ca.

NEW UD Beauty Junkies Rewards Program! 

When you join the new UD Beauty Junkies Rewards Program every purchase made at urbandecay.ca or freestanding stores earns you points that are redeemable for special rewards! As points accumulate ($20 and $30 rewards) you can use them to buy the products you crave. Membership also includes special access to limited edition items, promotions, gifts and more! For program details click HERE. 

Urban Decay Full Spectrum Eye Shadow Palette Review

When it comes to vibrant, show-stopping color few do it better than Urban Decay which is why the brand is one of the trendiest on the market! Today it’s time to kick-it-up a notch and get really colorful with the amazing Full Spectrum Palette! This bold, mesmerizing collection features 21 iconic shades (the most in any UD Palette) that will inspire you to create stunning looks and get really creative.

I love the sleek black packaging with flashy jewel emblem and it comes with a large mirror and double-ended brush.

The palette is organized by color family for a rainbow of ombré trios that range from pinks, oranges, yellows, greens, blues, purples and a wildcard row consisting of white and black. If you are looking for an all-inclusive palette for rich, vivid color this is a fabulous collection! You get all the basic primary colors plus a scintillating variation in stunning shimmers, radiant metallics, silky mattes and even a touch of glitter with deep, bright and smokey finishes!

Each shades makes its own bold statement mixed, matched or worn alone and you can always pair them with neutral palettes in your collection to help define, transition and highlight.

The color pay-off is decent but it does vary by shade. Some shadows such as Jones, Seize, Calavera, Sketch, Metamorphosis and Goldmine are quite sheer, sparse and a bit inconsistent so heavy layering may be required to intensify them to their full-potential. Minx, Hatter, Delirious, Blindsided, Platonic and Hundred are all bold and highly saturated. Not all of these shades require a base but I highly recommend the Urban Decay Primer Potion (my all time fave) to enhance application, longevity and vividness. If you like mixing sheer and high-impact pigments then you may like this type of versatility but I prefer pure, intense color throughout.

I managed to swatch most of the palette on my forearm using a primer to enhance the color.

The consistency also varies from smooth and buttery, to silky and textured and there are only 3 matte finishes with very mild shimmer. Overall the shade variation allows me to create many awesome looks so I find it very useable. Full Spectrum retails for $80.00 and is available at Sephora, sephora.ca, Urban Decay freestanding stores, urbandecay.ca and Shoppers Drug Mart.

Urban Decay Matte Revolution Lipstick Review

There is something special about the way a great matte lipstick makes your pout appear lush, seductive and beautifully defined. A vivid lipstick free of distracting glitter and shine is show-stopping and Urban Decay’s new matte formula is smoking-hot! Available in eleven badass shades from pink, nude, purple, fuchsia, red and orange you can rock bright hues, classic faves or subtle pigments to match your mood, wardrobe and style.

Sometimes being fashionable can be painful and although we women wear it well and work those high heels the combination of comfort and glam is highly coveted. Although these bold beauties are matte you don’t have to worry about packing backup gloss for dry lip emergencies. The formula is creamy, rich and buttery for long-wear that doesn’t suck the moisture from lips or cause chapping. The luxurious suppleness allows for smooth application without any drag and the fabulous color hugs the contours of your lips for remarkable coverage and plump fullness.

The packaging is almost as good as what’s inside and the pearlescent black tubes are super trendy! They are designed to feel comfortable in your hand and protect the soft lipsticks from breakage.

Blackmail is the deepest color in the collection and although it isn’t for the timid the shade is quite unique.The pigment isn’t a true black, it is has a dark cherry undertone which gives it a subtle wine tinge and makes the shade more wearable. Although this vampy hue may not be for everyone it is quite trendy for fall.

Menace is described as a medium fuchsia pink but it is actually more of a bright pink that is great for all skin tones and seasons.

Aside from the velvety texture and just the right amount of hydration the pigmentation is insane! Just one swipe delivers intense color dispersed seamlessly to shape the lips and brighten the complexion. When wearing such vivacious color I like to prime my lips and use a liner for best results but the lipsticks provide a few hours of gorgeous wear.

Stark Naked is just as pigmented as the other shades but it is very neutral and flesh tone. I’m not sure if it is the perfect nude for my complexion but it does help dial down some of my bold eye makeup creations.

Tilt is a bright orange that effortlessly transitions from summer to fall!

I love a lipstick that nourishes especially in cooler weather and these chic tubes are loaded with lip loving ingredients to keep skin soft. The formula is enriched with avocado, olive and babassu oil for moisture, Malaysian shea butter to condition and vitamins C and E for a healthy dose of antioxidants.

The lipsticks retail for $26.00 each and you can pick them up at Sephora and select Shoppers Drug Mart locations.

Although I don’t care for the term “brows on fleek” I do like the sharp, defined look that has been on trend. Urban Decay has also released the Brow Tamer Flexible Hold Gel to help control even the unruliest brows for a well groomed, polished look. The precise mascara-like brush combs through each hair for a fuller effect and it gives you total control when filling in sparse areas without that stiff, sticky finish. Since my brows don't often stay put this product is definitely a staple in my makeup bag and the lightweight formula keeps hairs in place while sculpting. The gel comes in 5 shades including clear, taupe, natural brown, warm brown and dark. You can pick up your perfect shade for $24.00.

*Press samples featured