I’m a little bit compulsive so I suppose it was only a matter of time before I decided that I need to collect all the 12 pan ColourPop eyeshadow palettes as a matter of principal.
The ‘Element of Surprise’ palette is by no means new, but it is a relatively new purchase for me. I was attracted by the purple and pink pops of colour and when it was on sale I thought, why not?
Straight up I can tell you that this palette was indeed a surprise. It is WAY more purple toned than I realised from looking at the colours in the pan. And this is PRETTY. Overall I very much enjoyed the quality of these shadows and I think the shadows are actually well curated to give multiple complete and different looks. I like that there are an even number of mattes and shimmers and that there is a good range of light, medium and deeper tones. I am (again) surprised that this would make a good travel palette for me.
Row 1 swatches. Feels (duochrome), Late Night, Silk Street and Rayon (duochrome)
I loved the looks I got out of this palette including the bright pink which I initially felt was a bit daunting but actually turned out to be a lot of fun. I think the mattes blend well and the shimmers are gorgeous applied with my finger or a wet brush and they really do shine and LAST on the eye.
Row two swatches: Go with the flow, Subdue (duochrome), Opulent, Labyrinth
There were four shadows that I think are worth mentioning particuarly in relation to formula:
- Late Night (row 1, shade 2) is a bit flakey so definitely pat on with your finger or use a setting spray to avoid fallout. This is listed as a duochrome. The colour is dynamic but it isn’t a super noticeable colour shift. It is BEAUTIFUL though.
- Subdue (row 2, shade 2) lacks pigmentation. Boo. You really need to build this one up which is a bummer and as a result the colour shift really isn’t noticeable.
- Details (row 3, shade 3) is a matte that contains hot pink glitter which is my least favourite formula. If you want to use it as a straight up matte I recommend you do your eyes first and then you can brush away any of the glitter that falls out.
- Labyrinth is literally the most delicious, perfect crease shade for me and I love it so much. It is a dusty pink and it is beautiful.
Row 3 swatches: Blank canvas, Sea stars, Details, Peace of Mind
So to roundup, I think this is a super fun colour story. I love that there is enough variety for a range of looks as well as a few pops of colour. I picked this palette up on a whim but it really lovely. ColourPop is always having a sale so keep an eye on their Instagram for good deals and if you are placing an order I’d say stick the ‘Element of Surprise’ in your cart too!
Have a wonderful day.
