Something about autumn makes me want to completely overhaul my makeup bag. Maybe it’s the light, that golden hour seems to last all day or maybe I’m just ready to retire my summer bronzer. Either way, this season’s eyeshadow palettes are making a strong case for themselves. Coppers that look expensive, neutrals that aren’t boring, and enough drama to make your Zoom calls more interesting.
Charlotte Tilbury, Hollywood Instant Look in a Palette
Tilbury’s Hollywood palette delivers instant polish: bronzy neutrals, champagne shimmer and soft contour tones that flatter every complexion. It’s all about luminous, show-stopping glamour the kind Céline Dion would wear centre stage making it perfect for golden autumn afternoons that glide into evening.
Where to buy: charlottetilbury.com – £58
Why We Love It
- Shade range. Balanced mix of warm neutrals and soft contour tones
- Finish variety. Matte, shimmer and glow formulas for versatile looks
- Seasonal fit. Golden, autumnal tones that suit every skin tone
- Formula quality. Silky, blendable textures with a signature glow
- Versatility. Works for both day and evening with minimal effort
- Ethics: Cruelty-free
Urban Decay, Naked Eyeshadow Sticks
Urban Decay turned their cult Naked palettes into shadow sticks, and we absolutely approve. These twist-up crayons are properly pigmented and they actually stay put without creasing. The shade range leans very Naked, all those browns and taupes we secretly wear every day anyway.
Where to buy: lookfantastic.com – £25
Why We Love It
- Shade range. Eight versatile neutral shades
- Finish variety. Matte and shimmer options
- Seasonal fit. Rich chocolates and champagnes for autumn looks
- Formula. Waterproof, budge-proof, 16-hour wear
- Portability. Perfect for quick, brush-free application
- Ethics: Cruelty-free
Natasha Denona, I Need A Nude Eyeshadow Palette
If you’re going to splurge on one palette this season, make it this. The formula is ridiculous, the mattes blend themselves and the metallics look wet without any fallout. The shade selection is boring in the best way: every colour you actually use, none of the random blues gathering dust.
Where to buy: natashadenona.com – £63
Why We Love It
- Shade range. Warm, rich tones for bold seasonal looks
- Finish variety. Mix of matte and metallic for depth
- Seasonal fit. Autumnal hues inspired by golden foliage
- Formula. Signature buttery Denona finish
- Versatility. Works across skin tones and day-to-night transitions
- Ethics: Cruelty-free
Dior, Backstage Eye Palette
This is what makeup artists actually use backstage, and it shows. Nothing groundbreaking here, just really good neutrals that work. The formula is consistently smooth and the mirror is actually useful. It’s the palette you reach for when you can’t be bothered to think but still want to look pulled together.
Where to buy: dior.com – £47
Why We Love It
- Shade range: Smart edit of lights, mids and deep shades
- Finish variety: Mattes, satins, and shimmers for layering
- Seasonal fit: Neutral tones that pair with any autumn look
- Formula: Professional-grade pigment and blendability
- Versatility: Perfect for everyday sophistication
Tom Ford, Soleil Neige Eye Color Quad
Four shades for how much? I know. But these quads hit different. The icy champagne makes you look well-rested even on three hours’ sleep, and that mink shade is the perfect “no-makeup makeup but make it expensive” colour. The compact itself is so satisfying to click shut, you’ll find excuses to touch up.
Where to buy: tomfordbeauty.co.uk – £80
Why We Love It
- Shade range: Curated cool-toned neutrals
- Finish variety: Satin, shimmer and metallic for dimension
- Seasonal fit: Elegant winter-to-autumn transition shades
- Formula: Plush textures and high-impact payoff
- Versatility: Compact quad ideal for elevated evening looks
Lancôme, Hypnôse Palette Brun Adoré
The French do that whole “effortless” thing annoyingly well, and this palette is exhibit A. Golden browns that somehow make you look sun-kissed in October. The formula is very Lancôme, not as buttery as Natasha Denona, but reliable. Won’t blow your mind, will become a staple.
Where to buy: lancome.co.uk – £40
Why We Love It
- Shade range: Warm browns and golds for depth and glow
- Finish variety: Balanced mattes and shimmers
- Seasonal fit: Rich, golden tones ideal for autumn
- Formula: Smooth, blendable textures with longevity
- Versatility: Elegant day-to-evening transition palette
Bobbi Brown, Sweet Decadence Eye Shadow Palette
Warm, rich neutrals and soft shimmers come together in a palette that’s equal parts wearable and indulgent. Ideal for polished daytime looks and easy to dial up for evening glamour.
Where to buy: sephora.co.uk – £45
Why We Love It
- Shade range: Deep neutrals with highlighting tones
- Finish variety: Mattes and soft shimmers
- Seasonal fit: Perfect warm tones for crisp autumn days
- Formula: Classic Bobbi Brown smoothness and depth
- Versatility: Chic daytime looks that layer beautifully for night
The best part about autumn palettes? They’re an excuse to buy new makeup when really, we just want something to look forward to when it’s dark at 4pm. Whether you’re team Tom Ford (respect the commitment) or grabbing those Urban Decay sticks for your gym bag, at least your eyes will look good while you’re wrapped in three layers and clutching a pumpkin spice latte.
