Urban Decay Naked Palette Review

So I've been away a while. Sorry. Real life was calling, so I had no choice but to drag myself away from magical internet land and expose my eyes to the harsh outdoor sunlight (or lack of). I should be revising for my VERY imminent exams, but the temptation to blog about my new toy proved a little too strong. I am now the proud owner of the Urban Decay Naked Palette, and I think I'm in love.

I received this palette as a present from a friend, and it's certainly the prize of this year's Christmas horde. However, I believe it retails at £36, and for that price you get the palette containing 12 shadows, a lovely little shader brush, and a mini of the much-coveted Urban Decay Primer Potion. Although £36 for one palette might induce a sharp intake of breath at first, on deeper inspection the value is brilliant- £3 a shadow... not including the brush or primer. I'm impressed.

I think the packaging is gorgeous with it's slightly furry, velvety texture complete with embossed gold lettering and the magnetic clasp. My only concern would be how securely the palette would hold together during travel. I've heard of a few people having issues with this, but I found it to be fine on a recent weekend break. I believe the Naked 2 Palette is slightly more secure.

In true Rachel style, my palette is already a bit mucky, but I've used it every day since it arrived in the post. I adore the shade range, especially the lighter colours. I think my current favourite is Sin- a beautiful shimmery pink highlight. However, there's not one eyeshadow that I haven't found a use for- even the slightly intimidating Gunmetal.

I'm not sure how useful these swatches are, as I used a different camera that doesn't seem to pick up shimmer terribly well. The only truly matte colours are Naked and Buck. Smog and Darkhorse are both more shimmery than they appear in the picture. As with all Urban Decay eyeshadows, the pigmentation is amazing. I am yet to find anything that can compete, especially in neutral shades. I'd say the texture is soft and springy, not remotely chalky- perfect! My only tiny complaint is that I find the general shade range a little too warm for my skin, but I've heard the Naked 2 Palette is cooler, so I may be investing!

So, overall this palette gets a solid 9/10 from me, and since I've had it, I haven't once reached for a neutral Mac shadow. Never thought that would happened!

More soon,

Rach xx