NARS MEKONG Single Eyeshadow - THOUGHT and SWATCHES...

NARS MEKONG Single Eyeshadow - THOUGHTS and SWATCHES...

Longwearing, crease resistant color in sheer wearable formulas. All NARS eyeshadows can be applied sheer or layered for a more dramatic effect. These richly pigmented powders blend effortlessly and can also be used wet for precisely lining the eyes.

• Richly pigmented, micronized powder formula provides improved wear and feel
• Effortless blending
• Multifunction: use as eyeshadow, eyeliner and on eyebrows

Size: 0.07 oz

Price: $23.00

Availability: NARS, Sephora, Nordstrom, Lord and Taylor, Saks Fifth Avenue, Barneys, etc.

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My Four Ps

Price 
NARS Single Eyeshadows retail for $23 each for 0.07 oz of product. This is only $2.70 more than a M∙A∙C Eyeshadow per ounce which is not too bad if you think about it. But if I compare these to MUFE Eyeshadows which cost $19 for 0.08 oz then they are not such a bargain afterall. However, I think these are priced right where they should be as a mid-high-end brand. Afterall high-end brands have $30+ eyeshadows. They are indeed an investment but are worth the price for quality.

Packaging

These eyeshadows come housed in a sleek velvety black compact with a mirror inside the lid. Inside the eyeshadow is protected by a clear plastic sheet with the NARS logo print. The drawback to the packaging is that you will not know the color without opening the compact or at least memorizing the color by the label on the back. also, the sleek black velvety texture of the case tends to get dirty with fingerprints and makeup residue. So if you are a clean-freak (present company included) then be prepared to wipe the package after use.

Product

The Mekong Eyeshadow is deep espresso infused with golden/bronze shimmer. The eyeshadow is velvety smooth and soft with fantastic pigmentation. When swatched the finish is shimmery but when applied to the eyelid it translates as more of a satin finish with low-impact shimmer. The eyeshadow blends easily but since it is a dark, pigmented color you must be careful not deposit too much color. Also, if you use an eyeshadow base, the stickier the base then the trickier blending will be...but the more shimmer will show up on the eyelid.

Performance
The Mekong Eyeshadow holds up very well through 8+ hours of wear but I must say the shimmer/glitter fades after just a couple of hours. If you want strong glitter then you will need to use a stickier base for the eyeshadow and/or apply a sealer (such as MUFE Eye Sealer) over the eyeshadow. That is a lot of work for the eyeshadow to look the way it does in the pan.

Overall
Personally I love the deep rich color of this eyeshadow and I am not worried about the glitter/shimmer aspect. But if you want the eyeshadow to look the way it does in the pan then it will take a little bit more work than usual. I find this is true for most glitter infused eyeshadows. However, this may be the make/break in your decision on whether the eyeshadow is worth it. If you want full on glitter then maybe this color is not for you. If you want a deep chocolate brown with subtle shimmer then go for it!