I'll be the first to admit that I get a little overexcited when it comes to new releases. But when I saw a picture of the Anastasia Beverly Hills Modern Renaissance Eyeshadow Palette teased on the brand's Instagram, I instantly knew I had to have it. I have quite the thing for warm-toned eyeshadows, and the fact that most of the shade names were inspired by pigments used by Renaissance painters excited me even more. I don't mention this much, but my original intention after graduating college was to use my chemistry degree to go into art conservation, so seeing these pigment names really made me happy.
The palette comes with fourteen shades, eleven of which are mattes and three satins/shimmers. Most of the shades are quite neutral, but there are a few pops of color in there, mainly a vibrant magenta pink shade called Love Letter. You can tell they really put a lot of thought into the color story - any of the shades would pair together to create a unique look. There are several perfect crease/transition shades as well as colors perfect for adding depth and smoking things up.
L to R: Tempera (hard to see - it's very similar to my skintone), Golden Ochre, Vermeer, Buon Fresco, Antique Bronze, Love Letter, Cyprus Umber
L to R: Raw Sienna, Burnt Orange, Primavera, Red Ochre, Venetian Red, Warm Taupe, Realgar
I've tried Anastasia eyeshadows before in the form of the Self-Made Palette (review), and they really are the best of the best in my opinion. These are the only eyeshadows I've ever used that will not crease or fade on me when used with a primer. I have a hard time reaching for any other brand because I know these will stay looking perfect all day long. The shadows are for the most part beautifully buttery and soft, though there are a few shades that aren't quite as creamy. Every shade has great color payoff, though. I can't wait to put together some summer looks using this palette, and there's not one color I can't see myself using. My favorite shades so far have been Vermeer, Buon Fresco, Antique Bronze, Red Ochre, and Warm Taupe. I've been slapping a bit of Vermeer on the lid with Buon Fresco in the crease for a quick everyday look, but I really can't wait to try an all-out smoky eye using Red Ochre and Realgar. I'll be sure to document it on Instagram or Snapchat (username: dadmunk) if I do.
The best thing about the palette, though, is that Anastasia Beverly Hills has made it a part of their permanent collection! It really is the essential warm eye palette. And word on the street is that they're going to release a cool version at some point if this one goes over well.
Have you tried the Modern Renaissance Palette? What eyeshadow palettes have you got your eyes on?