Matte eyeshadows have a timeless appeal. They offer a sophisticated, velvety finish that works for everything from everyday office wear to dramatic evening looks. The Jeffree Star Cremated Palette is a powerhouse of matte shades—cool-toned grays, taupes, blacks, and bone hues that blend like a dream. Whether you’re a matte makeup lover or just want to step away from shimmer for a while, this palette delivers the perfect smoldering or soft neutral eye.
In this step-by-step guide, you’ll learn how to achieve a flawless matte eye look using the Cremated Palette. We’ll cover prep, application techniques, and how to make your matte shadow last all day—even on oily lids. Plus, we’ll show you how to pair it with other Jeffree Star favorites like the BeachProof Eyeliner for a complete look.
BeachProof Eyeliner
Prepping Your Lids for Matte Shadows
The secret to a smooth matte eye starts with a clean, primed canvas. Before you reach for any shadow, remove any leftover makeup with the Make Me Melt Makeup Removing Balm. This balm melts away stubborn eye makeup without stripping the skin, leaving your lids perfectly clean and hydrated. A clean base prevents patchiness and helps matte shades adhere evenly.
After cleansing, apply a thin layer of eye primer all over the lid up to the brow bone. If you don’t have a dedicated primer, a tiny dab of concealer set with translucent powder works too. This step is crucial for matte shadows because they can grab onto oily areas and skip. Let the primer set for 30 seconds before you start blending.
- Use a small amount of Make Me Melt Makeup Removing Balm to gently remove any residue.
- Always prime your lids to prevent matte shadows from looking chalky or patchy.
Building the Perfect Matte Eye with Cremated Shades
The Cremated Palette is organized from light to dark, making it easy to build depth. Start with a fluffy blending brush and a soft transition shade like 'Cremated' (a light taupe). Sweep it into the crease using windshield-wiper motions. Keep the brush light—you can always add more product.
Next, deepen the outer V with a shade like 'Grave Digger' (a medium charcoal). Use a smaller, denser brush for precision. Tap off excess powder to avoid fallout. Blend the edges with a clean brush until there are no harsh lines. For the lid, apply a matte mid-tone like 'Funeral' (a dusty mauve) all over the mobile lid, pressing the color in rather than sweeping.
To define the lash line, tightline with the BeachProof Eyeliner. Its waterproof formula stays put and won’t transfer onto your matte shadow. For a sharper line, use a gel liner with an angled brush. Finish the lower lash line by smudging a soft gray shade like 'Remains' along the outer third.
- Always blend on a clean area of the lid to keep colors crisp.
- For extra dimension, add a tiny dot of the Light Frost Highlighter to the inner corner—just a touch of light to contrast the mattes.
Tips for Oily Lids: Making Your Matte Look Last
Matte shadows and oily lids can be a tricky combination. The key is to control oil without drying out the skin. After priming, set the primer with a thin layer of translucent powder before applying any shadow. This creates a barrier that prevents your natural oils from breaking down the pigment.
Another pro tip: use a small amount of the Make Me Melt Makeup Removing Balm as a gentle eye makeup remover at the end of the day, not as a primer. Choose powder products that are finely milled and high-pigment like the Cremated Palette—they won’t cake or slide. If you feel your lids getting greasy mid-day, blot with a tissue and lightly dust over with a neutral matte powder.
- Set your primer with loose powder for a matte canvas.
- Avoid creamy eye creams on the lids before shadow application.
Finishing Touches: Pairing with Highlighter and Liner
A matte eye doesn’t have to be flat. You can add subtle dimension without shimmers. Use the Cremated Palette’s lightest shade 'Tomb' to highlight the brow bone and inner corner. This brightens the eye while keeping the finish matte. For a soft glow, you can dab a tiny amount of Liquid Frost Highlighter on the center of the lid—its liquid formula blends easily and won’t disrupt your matte layers.
Complete the look with a coat of volumizing mascara. The BeachProof Eyeliner is also perfect for waterline definition—its felt tip allows precise application. Remember, matte looks rely on clean lines, so keep a cotton swab with micellar water handy to clean up any smudges. The result? A chic, modern eye that photographs beautifully and lasts all day.
A matte eye look doesn't have to be boring or difficult. With the right preparation and the Jeffree Star Cremated Palette’s incredible matte shades, you can achieve a polished, long-lasting finish. For the perfect lash line to complement your new matte look, try the BeachProof Eyeliner—its waterproof formula stays flawless through any event.
