PinkBasset
Well-known member
Pemily, I LOVE Illamasqua!! You should come to the Illamasqua thread, there are some recommendations what to pick when starting with Illamasqua. 
MAC and Gareth Pugh Discussion
- Thread starter LMD84
- Start date
It was your pictures that made me want to get it in the first place! I am planning on putting sh brushes and glosses in the small loops but do you find compacts or quads fit snuggly in the larger loops or do you use the larger loops to hold other things? Also, I found the zip stuck a fair bit on the bag on the shop floor....have you had any problems with yours?
Mac-Guy
Well-known member
I didn't have any issues with the zip. As for the larger loops, I use those for glosses and lippies. Compacts go on the other side.
Alisha1
Well-known member
I don't own a single polish from Illamasqua and I keep forgetting to check out the selection when I'm at the counter!
xasperadastra
Well-known member
Today I made my order and Gareth Pugh lashes have already sold out in Italy and the collection hasn't launched yet ^___^''''''''' I would never use them (I didn't want to buy them indeed), but I think they could be useful in the future since I'm studing photography XD maybe I can buy them in January when the collection launches in some other stores ^^ but if I don't find them it's not a problem (I have to buy a lot of things from Daphne & Iris!!!!)
xasperadastra
Well-known member
I've also ordered the lashes (O___________O) because the collection has already launched everywhere O___o ahahahah I'm a Mac addicted
Mac-Guy
Well-known member
I've also ordered the lashes (O___________O) because the collection has already launched everywhere O___o ahahahah I'm a Mac addicted
They are absolutely stunning. Even if you don't use them immediately, there will be an occasion in the future where you want to wear them.
That's good about the zips. In your photo the glosses you stored in the large loops have flat side....all my glosses are in typical circular tubes so I don't know if they would fit as snuggly....I might look at putting a compact or quad in it in the shop to see if they fit
Mac-Guy
Well-known member
Do not copy or link this review to any other website, blog or forum w/o my explicit permission!
An dieser Stelle seien die "ach-so-netten" BJ-Mitglieder gegruesst, die es sicherlich nicht lassen koennen, nun doch meine Review zu lesen. Happy Reading wuenschen MAC-Guy und die inzwischen eludifizierte Nay-Nymphe
Ardent Metal X Shadow is the must for purple and burgundy lovers. There is no way you can let this versatile shade slip away as you can use it as an eye shadow or as a lip product.
On the eye, Ardent is a stunningly sophisticated product that melts into the skin like butter. I would describe the color as a purple-ish burgundy with black undertones that leans on the cooler side. I love how I can blend the shadow for a wash-of-color or layer it for a completely opaque finish. This shade is not metallic, but features a sheen finish that reflects the light very well through added tiny micro-glitter that is almost invisible to the eye.
I recommend to prep the eye with P&P powder, followed by a neutral colored p/p like Painterly, to not only get a true-to-pan color but also a finish that will last throughout the day night. A little product goes a long way and I strongly recommend to layer this product, in particular let each layer dry before you apply the next one. I find the 239 brush the best to apply it on the lid and the 228 for those who want a smokey eye. The 228 comes in handy as it allows to deposit the color where you want it while allowing you to blend it out. Do not apply a thick layer as you set yourself up for creasing (as with any product that is applied too heavy).
The texture is mix between a p/p and a CCB. You get the creaminess of a CCB combined with the ability to blend it like a p/p. It will dry slower than a p/p though, while at the same time it dries much faster than a CCB. Also, you will not get the slightly greasy touch that a CCB can leave as the Metal X will completely dry if applied correctly.
An dieser Stelle seien die "ach-so-netten" BJ-Mitglieder gegruesst, die es sicherlich nicht lassen koennen, nun doch meine Review zu lesen. Happy Reading wuenschen MAC-Guy und die inzwischen eludifizierte Nay-Nymphe
Ardent Metal X Shadow is the must for purple and burgundy lovers. There is no way you can let this versatile shade slip away as you can use it as an eye shadow or as a lip product.
On the eye, Ardent is a stunningly sophisticated product that melts into the skin like butter. I would describe the color as a purple-ish burgundy with black undertones that leans on the cooler side. I love how I can blend the shadow for a wash-of-color or layer it for a completely opaque finish. This shade is not metallic, but features a sheen finish that reflects the light very well through added tiny micro-glitter that is almost invisible to the eye.
I recommend to prep the eye with P&P powder, followed by a neutral colored p/p like Painterly, to not only get a true-to-pan color but also a finish that will last throughout the day night. A little product goes a long way and I strongly recommend to layer this product, in particular let each layer dry before you apply the next one. I find the 239 brush the best to apply it on the lid and the 228 for those who want a smokey eye. The 228 comes in handy as it allows to deposit the color where you want it while allowing you to blend it out. Do not apply a thick layer as you set yourself up for creasing (as with any product that is applied too heavy).
The texture is mix between a p/p and a CCB. You get the creaminess of a CCB combined with the ability to blend it like a p/p. It will dry slower than a p/p though, while at the same time it dries much faster than a CCB. Also, you will not get the slightly greasy touch that a CCB can leave as the Metal X will completely dry if applied correctly.
Mac-Guy
Well-known member
Do not copy or link this review to any other website, blog or forum w/o my explicit permission!
Nochmals Gruesse an die BJ. Immer schoen weiterlesen
Ardent Metal X Shadow is a stunningly vampy color on the lips. If you like the promo pic and want to achieve this look, get Ardent.
On the lips, Ardent is beautiful but an extremely vampy color that requires a neutral eye and face to pull it off, but it is oh-so-sexy. I recommend the Prolongwear l/p in "Absolutely It" to line your lips followed by an application with a stiffer brush like the 195 that allows you to work fast while spreading out the color. Again, a little goes a log way and you want to avoid caking it onto your lips. As Ardent will dry down - in a similar way as the Mattenes - you want to add a gloss to give it dimension. If you want to achieve the effect you see in the promo pic, use both Vacant and Outrage: Outrage on the overall lip with an added emphasis of Vacant in the center of the mouth. The micro-glitter in both glosses will transform Ardent in a truly multi-dimensional color, one you can't take your eyes off. If you love purples but want an extra oompf, this combination is simply divine. While it takes some work - and it is certainly a color that needs some maintenance - it is for those special occasions when you want to stand out but in a sophisticated rather than a loud and obnoxious way. Imagine yourself with your little black dress in a posh cocktail bar.
Nochmals Gruesse an die BJ. Immer schoen weiterlesen
Ardent Metal X Shadow is a stunningly vampy color on the lips. If you like the promo pic and want to achieve this look, get Ardent.
On the lips, Ardent is beautiful but an extremely vampy color that requires a neutral eye and face to pull it off, but it is oh-so-sexy. I recommend the Prolongwear l/p in "Absolutely It" to line your lips followed by an application with a stiffer brush like the 195 that allows you to work fast while spreading out the color. Again, a little goes a log way and you want to avoid caking it onto your lips. As Ardent will dry down - in a similar way as the Mattenes - you want to add a gloss to give it dimension. If you want to achieve the effect you see in the promo pic, use both Vacant and Outrage: Outrage on the overall lip with an added emphasis of Vacant in the center of the mouth. The micro-glitter in both glosses will transform Ardent in a truly multi-dimensional color, one you can't take your eyes off. If you love purples but want an extra oompf, this combination is simply divine. While it takes some work - and it is certainly a color that needs some maintenance - it is for those special occasions when you want to stand out but in a sophisticated rather than a loud and obnoxious way. Imagine yourself with your little black dress in a posh cocktail bar.
Mac-Guy
Well-known member
Mac-Guy
Well-known member
Do not copy or link this review to any other website, blog or forum w/o my explicit permission!
Obscura Metal X Shadow is the e/s equivalent of Ascension n/p. This is a true metal shade with a metallic finish that is less loud than the crushed metals. What I love about Obscura is the multi-dimensional shimmer which distinguishes this shade from a regular metal piggie and the crushed metals. While it looks like a regular e/s in the pan, Obscura only does it justice when applied to the skin. It is ever so slightly more buttery than Ardent, which consequently makes it easier to spread out.
Depending on the light, Obscura reflects purple, green, blue, and thus making it an awesome companion for Ascension. I love Obscura on the lower lashline as a vibrant accent color or blended all over the lid for a dark and vampy look. The undertones are cool, thus lovers of coolish shades will like the extra dimension you get through the multi-chrome shimmer. If you apply it to the crease, I'd set it with a powder.
As you can blend it out, Obscura is certainly a shade that you can wear during the day time.
I'm not going to repeat the application recommendations (please refer to previous post about Ardent).
Obscura Metal X Shadow is the e/s equivalent of Ascension n/p. This is a true metal shade with a metallic finish that is less loud than the crushed metals. What I love about Obscura is the multi-dimensional shimmer which distinguishes this shade from a regular metal piggie and the crushed metals. While it looks like a regular e/s in the pan, Obscura only does it justice when applied to the skin. It is ever so slightly more buttery than Ardent, which consequently makes it easier to spread out.
Depending on the light, Obscura reflects purple, green, blue, and thus making it an awesome companion for Ascension. I love Obscura on the lower lashline as a vibrant accent color or blended all over the lid for a dark and vampy look. The undertones are cool, thus lovers of coolish shades will like the extra dimension you get through the multi-chrome shimmer. If you apply it to the crease, I'd set it with a powder.
As you can blend it out, Obscura is certainly a shade that you can wear during the day time.
I'm not going to repeat the application recommendations (please refer to previous post about Ardent).
MACina
Well-known member
Oh no.....that sounds so great
I think that I need Ardent too!!!
Especially because I love vampy lips so much!
I think that I need Ardent too!!!
Especially because I love vampy lips so much!
Do not copy or link this review to any other website, blog or forum w/o my explicit permission!
Nochmals Gruesse an die BJ. Immer schoen weiterlesen
Ardent Metal X Shadow is a stunningly vampy color on the lips. If you like the promo pic and want to achieve this look, get Ardent.
On the lips, Ardent is beautiful but an extremely vampy color that requires a neutral eye and face to pull it off, but it is oh-so-sexy. I recommend the Prolongwear l/p in "Absolutely It" to line your lips followed by an application with a stiffer brush like the 195 that allows you to work fast while spreading out the color. Again, a little goes a log way and you want to avoid caking it onto your lips. As Ardent will dry down - in a similar way as the Mattenes - you want to add a gloss to give it dimension. If you want to achieve the effect you see in the promo pic, use both Vacant and Outrage: Outrage on the overall lip with an added emphasis of Vacant in the center of the mouth. The micro-glitter in both glosses will transform Ardent in a truly multi-dimensional color, one you can't take your eyes off. If you love purples but want an extra oompf, this combination is simply divine. While it takes some work - and it is certainly a color that needs some maintenance - it is for those special occasions when you want to stand out but in a sophisticated rather than a loud and obnoxious way. Imagine yourself with your little black dress in a posh cocktail bar.
Mac-Guy
Well-known member
A few thoughts on the old-versus-new Metal X formula.
- I wish MAC would have used a different name as this formula has very little to do with the Metal X shades that came out a few years ago. A new name would have been more beneficial to promote this product.
- In the case of the GP Metal X shades, the metal packing proves to be the most useful as the magnetic closure seals the shadow and it is less likely to dry out. The packaging is heavy and I feel that it is worth the 32 bucks given how stunning the packing looks in combination how it seals - almost airtight - the e/s.
- As I do with all my cream products, I will keep them in my beauty fridge to give them a longer life. Using a spatula will not only help to keep the product as sanitary as possible, it will also allow you to keep the intricate GP pattern that is imprinted on the surface for as long as possible.
- The mirror on the insight is an added bonus - a bonus that you don't get with most other MAC shades. And yes, this is were the extra money goes: mirror, heavy metal compact, stunning design. Is it worth the extra bucks? IMO, yes, but it is certainly up to you to decide.
- I cannot repeat myself enough, but do not cake on the Metal X. Less is more. If you need more, let it dry before you continue.
- Finally, try out the formula for yourself if you are in doubt. Don't order online if you have second (or third) thoughts as the product is certainly on the higher price end. But do try it out before you bash it.
Happy hauling.
-
- I wish MAC would have used a different name as this formula has very little to do with the Metal X shades that came out a few years ago. A new name would have been more beneficial to promote this product.
- In the case of the GP Metal X shades, the metal packing proves to be the most useful as the magnetic closure seals the shadow and it is less likely to dry out. The packaging is heavy and I feel that it is worth the 32 bucks given how stunning the packing looks in combination how it seals - almost airtight - the e/s.
- As I do with all my cream products, I will keep them in my beauty fridge to give them a longer life. Using a spatula will not only help to keep the product as sanitary as possible, it will also allow you to keep the intricate GP pattern that is imprinted on the surface for as long as possible.
- The mirror on the insight is an added bonus - a bonus that you don't get with most other MAC shades. And yes, this is were the extra money goes: mirror, heavy metal compact, stunning design. Is it worth the extra bucks? IMO, yes, but it is certainly up to you to decide.
- I cannot repeat myself enough, but do not cake on the Metal X. Less is more. If you need more, let it dry before you continue.
- Finally, try out the formula for yourself if you are in doubt. Don't order online if you have second (or third) thoughts as the product is certainly on the higher price end. But do try it out before you bash it.
Happy hauling.
-
MACina
Well-known member
I got Elude today and I am so much in love with this pretty Beauty Powder!!!
Really love everything.....the powder itself and of course the super lovely compact
So far I have only swatched it...it feels so nice on my skin.
I will play more with it during the next days....can not wait!
Really love everything.....the powder itself and of course the super lovely compact
So far I have only swatched it...it feels so nice on my skin.
I will play more with it during the next days....can not wait!
Mac-Guy
Well-known member
Do not copy or link this review/image to any other website, blog or forum w/o my explicit permission!
Hi beauties, you know who you are
Swatched with the 239. Due to the multi-chrome shimmer (Obscura) and the sheen (Ardent), it's very hard to capture it in a photograph. You can see the beauty of the metallic sparkle, but it's even more divine IRL. I'm sure there are photographers out there you can provide better images.
Hi beauties, you know who you are
Swatched with the 239. Due to the multi-chrome shimmer (Obscura) and the sheen (Ardent), it's very hard to capture it in a photograph. You can see the beauty of the metallic sparkle, but it's even more divine IRL. I'm sure there are photographers out there you can provide better images.
Dreaming Dancer
Well-known member
Thanks for the in-depth reviews and application recommendations, MAC-Guy! I am new the forum and joined because of the great info in this thread in particular. This collection has been my favorite from MAC in a long while. I just ordered Ardent and Obscura, and cant' wait to try them with the rest of the collection.
Mac-Guy
Well-known member
You are welcome. It's been my pleasure.
