The Effort:Effect Ratio: Why Long-Wearing Liquid Eyeshadows Are the New Uniform
In a recent review for The Guardian, Hughes highlights three standout products that balance durability and versatility, while noting a significant gap in the affordable market.
Beauty editor Sali Hughes has identified long-wearing liquid eyeshadows as the most efficient tool for achieving a polished aesthetic with minimal effort. Writing for The Guardian Fashion section, Hughes describes the formula as the solution to common eyeshadow challenges, offering an impressive effort:effect ratio. The technique is straightforward: a single neutral shade is daubed onto the centre of the lid and blended outwards to soften lines, creating the appearance of skill and time invested despite the brevity of the application.
Hughes places particular emphasis on Mac’s Multi Sculpt Matte Liquid Eye and Face Colour, priced at £22. While she notes the product dries too quickly to be effective as a face colour, she describes it as a godsend for eyelids, particularly during warmer weather when energy conservation is preferred. The product’s muted tones are deemed foolproof, with specific recommendations including Buffed Up, a dusty pinky brown; Stone, a cool taupe that mimics natural socket lines; and Brulé, a classic beige.
For those seeking a suede-like finish, Make Up By Mario’s Master Mattes Long-Wear Cream Eyeshadow (£25) is highlighted for its longevity and versatility as a base for powder shadows. Hughes identifies Mauve as her most frequently worn shade from the range, noting that the entire lineup avoids common pitfalls associated with cream formulas. The product’s durability ensures it remains effective throughout the day without fading.
Positioned between luxury and mass market options, REM Beauty’s Starlet Liquid Eyeshadow Matte (£15) is recommended as a waterproof alternative that delivers indispensable nude tones. Hughes points to Ty and Ily as shades with sufficient pigment to stand out on deeper skin tones, while Nvm, a warm peachy camel, is noted for its broad suitability across various complexions. This mid-range option provides a practical solution for those seeking versatility without the higher price point of luxury brands.
Despite the success of these specific formulations, Hughes expresses frustration regarding the absence of versatile high-street equivalents. She observes that affordable long-wearing options often feature metallic finishes that are less adaptable and may not flatter older eyes. This gap in the market underscores the value of the matte, long-wearing formulas currently available from premium and mid-range brands.