There was a time when I’d scour drugstore shelves for everything from foundations to mascara. But aside from a few select brands, I was always left overwhelmed by my choices as many drugstore options left my skin looking chalky, including eye shadow. Luckily, drugstore mainstays are listening up and making a range of eye shadows that work well on a variety of skin tones and that give an amazing color payoff.
Finding the right palette for your needs on drugstore shelves (and online) is easier than ever, and the variety is notable. From neutral to bright palettes, I’ve rounded up a few of my favorites because while I love department store eye shadow palettes, I love a great drugstore addition too! Because let’s face it—a great palette at a price that doesn’t bust my budget is always a win-win.
Inspired by animals, this talc-free 28-shade palette will always let you change your spots. (Well, metaphorically, of course.)
Housed in a case with a mirror and a handy dandy brush, we love that this 10-shade palette offers three shadow finishes: satin, matte, and sheen—all in gorgeous nude shades that complement a variety of skin tones.
There are palettes, and then there are palettes. Boasting 40 fall-inspired shades, this one from Nyx lets you go as subtle or as bold as you desire.
If you prefer creamy eye shadows, this palette is just the right price and features very versatile shades. The shadows blend so well for a flawless and radiant look.
With 12 pigmented, velvet matte textures, this palette features neutral shades that complement all skin tones.
To build a bright look, this eight-piece palette is our top choice. For a more pigmented pop, apply the shadows while wet.
Knowing that the über talented Megan Thee Stallion selected each of these colors (all of which complement both cool and warm skin tones) isn’t the only reason to pick up this palette. Each shade is versatile enough to be applied to both the eyes and cheeks.
This 16-piece palette comes highly recommended by reviewers, and best of all, the neutral, universal shades are curated to complement all skin tones.
With a clean seal of approval, these rose extract– and vitamin C-enriched shades give your lids a boost of color with skin-loving ingredients.
If you’re sensitive to fragrance, investing in this 10-shade palette provides a vibrant color payoff without aggravating your allergies.
Formulated sans oil, fragrance, and parabens, this 100% recyclable palette is good for your skin and the environment.
Inspired by the sights and sounds of Paris, the 16-shade palette offers a mix of deep berries and cool tones that give a noteworthy color payoff.
From deep navy to matte orange hues, this 12-piece palette with blendable, long-wear formulas can take you from day to night in one swipe of a brush.
Juvia’s Place eye shadow palettes are beloved by makeup enthusiasts everywhere because of their effervescent pigments. I love that this palette is curated with bright and muted colors, perfect for fall and winter.
One thing I know for sure is this 18-piece shimmer and matte-filled palette is perfect for holiday makeup looks. Too glam and Sultry are two of my favorite shades because they truly bring the glamour of the holidays.
Wanna go back to the ’90s? Well, at least for the Lisa Frank school supplies. We might not be using colorful pencils these days, but we love that this Lisa Frank palette lets us experiment with bright colors in a fresh new way.
Fifteen shades with a price tag that’s less than $10? Yes, please.
Boasting 30 warm and cool-toned neutrals with a range of matte, shimmer, satin, and pressed glitter finishes, this palette makes any eye look you’re dreaming up possible.
Priming the eyes before will help secure the eye shadow for looks that last all day long. This budget-friendly option does just that without breaking the bank.
Packed with eight brushes, building any eye shadow look you’ve saved on IG won’t be a problem.
You may not want to include eyeliner in each look you curate, however, when you’re ready to add extra definition to your eyes, this liquid liner is my personal favorite.
If you want to build volume without the addition of lashes, this formula will give you bigger, brighter-looking eyes with just one swipe (but I always go for a second one). Next: Here’s How Makeup Artists Achieve Flawless Eye Shadow Looks Every Damn Time
