Urban Decay Elements Eye Shadow Palette | Review & Swatches

Just in time for the winter solstice, Urban Decay has released another stunning palette that is sure to be on everyone’s holiday wish-list. Following Born to Run and Naked Cherry is no easy feat but this celestial compact features 19 mystical shades that range from bright matte, holographic shimmer and molten metallics – everything you need to look stunning at festive parties.

The colorful round case was inspired by the elements – air, earth, fire and water.

Inside the pigments are displayed like a constellation orbiting around Luna - an ultra-iridescent transformer shade that can be layered on top of the shimmers to customize their finish. I’m not crazy about the large white shadow since it doesn’t seem to have much effect on the mattes and the texture is a bit flaky. I do however like the idea of altering colors for more variety and these beauties look gorgeous on all skin tones.

If you’re looking for a bold spectrum of eye shadow this palette is stunning! Most of the shades are velvety smooth, highly saturated and crease resistant with the exception of Dream Weaver – a bright matte pink that falls a little short on pigmentation. I always recommend using a good base (UD’s Primer Potion is my all-time fave) but the formula is durable and lasts all day without fading.

My favorite hues are the dramatic royal blue (Sapphire Dream), the gorgeous metallic teal (Heavy Water) and of course the bright purple (Hex Remedy). There aren’t many mattes but Fire Starter (deep golden red) and Elemental (soft sienna) work well with so many palettes in my collection including Naked Heat.

The vibrant colors are great for a night out but you can totally rock the bronze, gold, silvery pink, champagne and burgundy any day of the week.

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.

Marcelle Velvet Gel Liquid Lip Color | Review & Swatches

Today many people will be celebrating Halloween and right after the costumes are put away and the pumpkins are composted, everyone will be preparing for the holiday season. I’ve already attended a few Christmassy events and with many more to come I will definitely need an arsenal of vivid lip color that can withstand cocktails, sweets and late night treats.

The new Velvet Gel Lipsticks ($12.95) by Marcelle are available in a variety of trendy shades that range from neutral to bright. On cold days the lush pigment locks in moisture to keep lips smooth, nourished and protected with a blend of healing oils, antioxidants and vitamins. The formula is also hypoallergenic, fragrance free and gluten free making it safe for sensitive skin.

Shades (left to right): Coral Pink, Rosy Nude, Lotus Pink, Velour Red and Vivid Plum

I wanted festive colors so I chose some of the brightest hues in the collection. The pigment glides on smooth and creamy for excellent color payoff, buildable coverage and rich intensity. 

Use the point of the drop-shaped applicator to outline and define the lip contour for precision and neatness. The semi-matte finish makes lips appear plump and dramatic with no stickiness.

The saturation is incredible and I love the lightweight supple texture. Skin feels soft, hydrated and comfortable but the color is not transfer proof so you will need to reapply after eating or drinking. Despite not having the durability I was looking for, the ink-like vibrancy and advanced skincare benefits are important qualities in a good lipstick.

Marcelle is available at drugstores nationwide including Shoppers Drug Mart and online at marcelle.com.