Pat McGrath Holiday 2019 Review * Always In High Heels

Shop Pat McGrath Holiday 2019:

Of course, as you already know, I wait all year for Holiday beauty launches. In fact, it’s practically my Super Bowl. (Although, with J.Lo scheduled to perform the half-time show at the real Super Bowl, I’ll actually watch it this year – you know she’s going to look amazing.) Anyway, back to the topic at hand. There’s just something about holiday makeup launches that takes things up a notch. Between the sparkle and the packaging, and oh-so-much glitter, brands always bring out their best. And you know Pat McGrath Holiday launches never disappoint.

In fact, this year the Pat McGrath Holiday collection includes two all-new Blitz Astral Quad Eyeshadow palettes and re-released 4 Matte-Trance Lipsticks in limited edition packaging. The eyeshadow palettes are $65 each and the lipsticks are $40 each.

Mother has been making waves this year with her new launches and curated concepts. First of all, she launched mini versions of her cult favorite lip products – Lust Gloss and Matte Trance Lipstick. (Lust gloss review here and Matte Trance review here.) Then, not only did she give us eye shadow singles, but then she went even further and created mini eyeshadow palettes (you can read my full review here.) And now, she’s created two all new eyeshadow quad palettes with the same insane luxurious packaging of her OG Mothership palettes.

Notably, in the past, the Mothership and smaller eyeshadow palettes have had very different packaging. However, for Holiday 2019, the new quads got the Mothership treatment. The black glossy exterior is so glamorous and the inside is clean, sleek, and has a great mirror. Of course, as you know, I’m a sucker for great packaging. Furthermore, each quad includes 4 new shades and are packed full of the most insane shimmer you’ve ever seen. Trust me – these photos DO NOT do these shadows justice. In fact, if I had any complaints about these babies, it would be that all of the shadows are sparkly. I know, I know! Such a weird comment from me. After all, I’m usually a “more is more” kinda gal. However, when it comes to palettes, I really love when you only have to grab one and go, and not pull shades from multiple different places.

Although, I think these Blitz Astral Quad Eyeshadow palettes are more “statement pieces” than “utility players”. In fact, with this kind of glitter and pigment, they are definitely made to take your Holiday looks to the next level. In addition, several shades are translucent enough to be eyeshadow toppers too!

First, let’s talk about the Nocturnal Nirvana palette. Comparatively, this is for sure the more colorful of the two. It contains Incandescent Gold 003, Blitz Aquamarine, VR Emerald, and Blitz Purple. Although Blitz Aquamarine and Blitz Purple are pretty freaking beautiful, VR Emerald is by far the standout of this palette. With a sheer gray base and the most beautiful multifaceted shimmer, the sparkle ranges from green to yellow and even to purple in different angles/lighting. It’s truly mesmerizing. Plus, since it has a more sheer base, you can easily layer it over other looks without ruining or covering what’s underneath.

Next we have the Iconic Illumination palette. With Astral Gold Allure, Blitz Bordeau, Blitz Brown, and Bronze Gold 003, Iconic Illumination is your more standard palette. Honestly, this little quad can take you from day to night and every party in-between. Although, again, all of the shadows are filled with shimmer, so you might have to bring in some mattes off the bench to create an unbeatable team. At first I thought this was the more boring of the two palettes and that Nocturnal Nirvana would be my favorite. However, I was so wrong. Astral Gold Allure is the most stunning glitter shade and is the perfect glitter topper for any look you will create all year long. Seriously. It’s that good. Plus I am just SO into Burgundy right now.

Although both Blitz Astral Quad Eyeshadow palettes are a bit expensive. If you’re interested in these shades, they are definitely worth the cost. Pat McGrath Labs products are always of the utmost quality. Not to mention, each has its own fun personality. If you want a little somethin’ somethin’ to spice up the season, Nocturnal Nirvana is calling your name. And if you’re going for a more elegant look, Iconic Illumination is right up your alley. Honestly, I don’t think you can go wrong with either palette. They’re both gorgeous. Just like you.

**UPDATE** I’m updating this post to share the THIRD palette released in this collection – Ritualistic Rose. Not only is this stunning palette full of the most gorgeous shimmer and shine, but these rose shades are absolutely incredible. Although I had a tough time deciding which of the first two palettes was my favorite, Ritualistic Rose is a clear winner. I’m so obsessed.

Honestly I fell in love with this palette the second I opened it. With these beautiful pinks, I feel like it was made just for me! The light pink shade is one of my all time favorite shadows. For my look I used the two pink shades on my lid with the bronze in the outer corner. It’s so soft and gorgeous, it didn’t even need liner or lashes. Just a bit of mascara and a deep rose lip.