I know this is a bit late to the game, but MAC's recent Style Black collection is so inspiring I thought...better late than never!
Style Black is in my opinion a welcomed return to MAC's more artistic roots. Sure, the colours and products may not be for everyone - but MAC started out as a brand for professionals, which means more creative colours and products and less catering to your typical consumer.
Bottom Row (left to right): Blue Flame, Young Punk
All shadows have a matte black base - Cinderfella has a fine silver glitter, Gilt by Association has a find gold glitter, Blue Flames a fine blue glitter with a hint of silver shimmer and Young Punk has a fine medium pink glitter. All shadows have the characteristic "flakey" texture of a mineralize eye shadow. Photo taken indoors with flash, NC 35 skin (excuse my vein-y hands!). Shadows are $23.50 CA/$19.50 US.
Top to bottom: Young Punk, Blue Flame, Gilt by Association, Cinderfella
Left column foiled application/Right column applied dry
Like all other MAC Mineralize eye shadows, the colour payoff when dry is mediocre at best. Truly these shadows are best used when foiled (applied with a wet brush), or in conjunction with a fairly sticky base such as creme shadows, Urban Decay's Primer Potion and Too Faced Shadow Insurance. I also think these will pair extremely well with the new MAC Greasepaint Sticks launched with the Style Black & DSquared collections. There is substantial fallout if you try to brush these on dry, so ensure that you cover your under eye area with a thin layer of loose powder before you begin, so you can brush off the fallout easily after you are done. If you insist on using these dry I would even recommend skipping a brush all together and opting for a sponge tip applicator or using your finger to "pack" the shadow on.
Of the four, Gilt by Association has the smoothest texture & the best payoff when swatched dry.
Despite the fallout issue, I think these eye shadows are beautiful and really a must have for anyone who likes dark smokey eyes & shimmer. If these interest you, call your local counter as they are all limited edition and going fast!
J