Essence eyeshadow inventory and swatches!

It was over a year ago I first discovered Essence cosmetics and initially went completely gaga over their uber affordable rainbow of nail polish shades.  Of course I also tried a few eyeshadow pans because they were so cheap too - gotta love a good bargain!  I was surprised by their quality and colour selection and over the past year or so my collection has grown more than a little. Time to do an updated inventory then!  Here are my eyeshadow pans, and just because I like sorting things, they're sorted by finish.

Shimmer Effect
I think the reference to shimmer's a bit misleading - for me anyway because it automatically conjures up visions of tons of shimmer or frost.  Yes these shadows are shimmery and have a glowing finish but I think they're are best described as a satin, as they appear rather silky when swatched.  Pigmentation is medium but quite buildable and there are quite a few shades in the range with this soft finish.  These shadows are perfect for daytime looks.

Shades as shown left to right and swatched in the same order:

• 58 Cappucino, please - Mushroom beige
• 54 Yes eye can! - Silvery blue
• 46 Taupe of the pops - Khaki taupe
• 16 Go glam - Pink toned lilac
• 32 Jazzed up - Shimmery mint green

Metallic Effect
The Metallic Effect eyeshadows are incredibly pigmented and do have a definite metallic sheen to them.  One swipe and you get a lovely depth of colour and shine on your lids.  I use these as crease shades and prefer to use them for evening eyes. 

Left to right and swatched in the same order:

• 14 Irresistible - Gunmetal grey
• 35 Party all night - Warm golden taupe

And the rest...

Matte Effect
I only have one of these so I can't generalise.  The pigmentation is soft and a little on the sheer side and the finish isn't 100% matte as I can detect a slight satiny sheen. 
Holographic
I don't know about holographic but this has a gorgeous, duochrome look on the skin and has great coverage.  Stunning and very glam for an evening eye!  I'd buy more of these if I see them because I love the multidimensional iridescent look.
Sparkling Effect 
Sheer and powdery with a hint of sparkle.  Unfortunately mine is extremely crumbly too.

 Left to right and swatched in the same order:

• 21 Colour splash (matte effect) - soft lime green
•  43 Mystic lemon (holographic effect) - iridescent golden yellow
•  02 Dance all night - Ivory with subtle sparkle

 Australian readers can buy Essence cosmetics at Target and Priceline stores nationally.

Until next time.

Vita :)