March 9, 2011

KATE Crystallise Quartz Eyeshadow Review, Swatches, Photos

KATE is a Japanese branch off brand from Kanebo. KATE has always been the edgier, goth-y older sister in Kanebo’s brand line up. I’ve always loved the palettes they do but as I’ve gotten older I enjoy them even more since many of the shades selections include some nice nude, natural colors.

The new KATE Crystallise Quartz Eyeshadow Palettes are a brand new palette that launched for Spring. Honestly, if you’re a fan of the brand this is kinda a rehash of what KATE does season after season after season. New method of application but same old shades. If you never tried KATE this will prove a very exciting adventure however those who are old hat to the brand, like me, might feel it’s a bit repetitive.

Check it!


Two shadows, a “crystal” overcoat, and a liner for creating a flashy eye look!


I love KATE because they make palettes that are super easy to apply. It’s really a no brainer experience and a pure joy since their palettes always have good quality to back them up.

Application is a breeze, you simply use the two shades to contrast with (I use the lighter on my crease and the darker on my lid which is the Asian method of contrasting these shades however you can go more traditionally if you want and use the darker within the crease and the lighter on your lid or the darker on your outer v, it’s entirely up to you). Follow up by lining your eyes with the darkest shade in the palette and finish by the look by patting the shimmery shade in place for extra sparkle or forgo it if shimmer simply isn’t your bag.

Easy!

You can create a simple yet sophisticated eye look in seconds with these palettes.

I only purchased 1 shade but there are five released including pink, green, blue, and brown selections. I got the BR-2 version which contains a peachy shade (use as an all over color wash particularly within the crease), a chocolate brown (lid), deep chocolate (liner), and silver-y gold sparkle (over layer on top of your completed look).

Japanese drugstore shadows are pretty brilliant so you aren’t buying into the cheap stuff we end up getting here in the US. The shadows are nicely pigmented, blend oh so easily, and have a creamy, powder-y formula that oily lids will love. They’ve always worn long and strong on my eyes sans creasing drama.

BR-2 creates a nice work friendly look and should appeal to those who like a more nude, natural look.


If you’re an old friend of KATE’s you might be a bit bored with this palette as it’s much like many other releases from the brand plus the shades rarely change.

  • Those who haven’t tried KATE before (new to the brand? You’ll adore this palette).
  • Those who want a work friendly palette (BR2 is a great pick!).
  • Those who want to try a little something different and start exploring Japanese makeup!

  • Those who are unwilling to shop online, deal with airmail, etc…(KATE is sold in Japan and a few select Asian countries but not within the US).


Overall, the KATE Crystallise Quartz Eyeshadow offer nothing amazingly new if you’ve already used the brand in the past however for those who are new to the brand, well, needless to say this is a treat. I liked the palette well enough and have no complaints about its performance but I’ve definitely reached a point where I’m telling myself I do NOT need another KATE Palette (I have over 20 of the little buggers).

You can explore KATE at nomorerules.net

About the Muse

Isabella MuseIsabella is just an average everyday geeky girl who doesn’t blend her eyeshadow correctly, wears too much blush, and hopes she never finds her holy grail products because she likes the thrill of the chase so much. Her mission is to bring you super honest reviews on makeup, skincare, fragrance and all things beauty. She’s in no way an expert on the topic and she sure as hell isn’t a super model. But she’s passionate about makeup and is seeking like-minded individuals that like pina coladas, getting caught in the rain, and ones that enjoy spending hundreds of dollars at Sephora without feeling buyer’s remorse. If you’re that person feel free to reach out and leave a comment or follow me on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Bloglovin‘.

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Comments

  • Rinka

    i have to agree, after a while KATE’s colors get kinda repetitive… but i end up buying them anyway because their packaging just gets prettier and prettier!
    haha and ive also always had this image of KATE as majolica majorca’s older cooler goth sister lmao

    awesome review, and the palette looks gorgeous on you 😀

    • the Muse

      Agreed on that Rinka. These are a long way from some of the original glam trick palettes and oh so pretty ;-D Def!!!! ;-D aw thanks hun! you’re too kind!

  • jeansco

    OMG! i’m dying to get this!!!! i want the purple/black one!!! i can totally see it creating the perfect smokey eye!

  • Katherine

    A lot of people told me the color pay off from this brand is not that good lol I never tried it so I don’t know

  • Annia

    I found this while I was shopping the other day. I tested them on my hand and the pigmentation was really good but I felt like they were way too buttery.
    I smoked the colors together and it just started to look very faded and messy so I didn’t bought them. It will would probably melt off my eyes since the weather is very hot in here :/