The Best Julep Eyeshadow Picks for Easy, Gorgeous Looks
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I’ll admit it—I’m a total eyeshadow junkie. But between early morning meetings and my constant battle with the snooze button, I rarely have time for complex eye looks. That’s why Julep eyeshadow sticks have become my absolute ride-or-die makeup product. These creamy, blendable sticks deliver serious color payoff with minimal effort, making them perfect for beauty enthusiasts at any skill level.
In today’s post, I’m diving deep into the world of Julep eyeshadow products, sharing my personal favorites, application tips, and honest reviews of their most popular collections. Whether you’re a makeup newbie or a seasoned pro looking to streamline your routine, these versatile sticks might just revolutionize your beauty game.
What Makes Julep Eyeshadow Different?
Before I share my top picks, let’s talk about what sets Julep eyeshadow apart from countless other brands crowding the beauty aisles.

The Formulation Magic
Julep’s claim to fame is their Eyeshadow 101 Crème to Powder Waterproof Eyeshadow Stick formula. True to its name, this innovative product goes on creamy but sets to a powdery finish that actually stays put. As someone who’s battled oily lids for years, finding a cream shadow that doesn’t crease or fade by lunchtime feels like striking gold.
The waterproof formula has survived through:
- Summer pool parties
- Unexpected rain showers
- Teary wedding ceremonies
- My intense hot yoga sessions (yes, really!)
User-Friendly Design
What I love most about Julep eyeshadow sticks is their practical design:
- Twist-up mechanism: No sharpener needed
- Built-in smudger: Perfect for blending on the go
- Precise tip: Allows for detailed application
- Portable size: Fits easily in even my smallest purse
“Makeup should be accessible to everyone, regardless of skill level or time constraints. Our eyeshadow sticks were designed with busy women in mind.” – Jane Park, Julep Founder

My Top Julep Eyeshadow Picks
After trying virtually every shade in the Julep eyeshadow lineup (much to my wallet’s dismay), I’ve narrowed down my absolute favorites.
Best Everyday Neutrals
Shade Name | Description | Best For | My Rating |
---|---|---|---|
Champagne Shimmer | Pearly beige with subtle gold reflect | All-over lid color, inner corner highlight | 9.5/10 |
Taupe Shimmer | Cool-toned greige with satin finish | Transition shade, everyday wear | 9/10 |
Bronze Shimmer | Rich metallic bronze | Depth in crease, deepening outer corner | 8.5/10 |
These three shades from the Eyeshadow 101 Crème-to-Powder Waterproof Eyeshadow Stick Duo collection form the core of my daily makeup routine. With just these three colors, I can create a dimensional eye look in under two minutes.
Pro tip: Apply Champagne Shimmer all over the lid, blend Taupe Shimmer into the crease, and add Bronze Shimmer to the outer corner and lower lash line for a foolproof everyday look.
Best Bold Colors for Blue Eyes
As someone with blue eyes, I’ve found certain Julep eyeshadow stick shades particularly flattering:
- Copper Shimmer: This warm metallic makes my blue eyes practically glow
- Plum Shimmer: The perfect purple-toned shade that doesn’t make me look tired
- Olive: A subtle green-gold that creates a unique contrast with blue irises
The Julep eyeshadow stick for blue eyes isn’t marketed specifically for eye color, but these shades have consistently earned me the most compliments.

Best Waterproof Performance
If you’re looking for truly budge-proof options, these champions from the Eyeshadow 101 Crème to Powder Waterproof Eyeshadow Stick 10 Piece Palette have impressed me the most:
- Charcoal: Perfect for smoky eyes or as a smudged liner
- Stone: A versatile gray that works as shadow or liner
- Midnight Blue: A deep navy that’s more interesting than black
I’ve worn these through summer beach days, and they’ve remained flawless from sunrise to sunset.
Honest Julep Eyeshadow Stick Reviews
Let’s dive deeper into specific collections based on my personal experience and feedback from other users.
The Classic Singles
The individual Julep eyeshadow sticks remain bestsellers for good reason. Here’s my assessment:
Pros:
- Long-wearing (8+ hours without primer)
- Truly waterproof
- Blendable for about 30 seconds before setting
- Vibrant color payoff
Cons:
- Limited shade range compared to competitors
- Price point ($15 each) is higher than drugstore alternatives

The Duo Collection
The Eyeshadow 101 Crème-to-Powder Waterproof Eyeshadow Stick Duo offers complementary shades in one convenient package.
Pros:
- Better value than buying singles
- Thoughtfully paired colors
- Same excellent formula as singles
- Convenient for travel
Cons:
- Can’t mix and match your own combinations
- Some duos have one standout shade and one mediocre shade

The 10-Piece Palette
The Eyeshadow 101 Crème to Powder Waterproof Eyeshadow Stick 10 Piece Palette is Julep’s answer to those who want a complete collection.
Pros:
- Significant savings compared to buying individually
- Wide range of colors from neutrals to statement shades
- Includes rare limited-edition colors
- Attractive gift packaging
Cons:
- Mini sizes contain less product
- Some colors may go unused if you prefer neutral looks
- Still a splurge purchase at $85

Application Tips for Perfect Results
Based on my countless hours experimenting with Julep eyeshadow, here are my tried-and-true application techniques:
For Beginners
- Start with light colors: They’re more forgiving if you make mistakes
- Apply directly to lid: The creamy formula glides on smoothly
- Blend immediately: Use your finger or the built-in smudger before it sets
- Build gradually: Start with a light layer and add more as needed
For Advanced Techniques
- Use as a base: Apply powder shadows over the cream for intensified color
- Create precise lines: The pointed tip works beautifully as eyeliner
- Color mixing: Layer different shades for custom colors
- Gradient effect: Apply darker shade at lash line, lighter shade at brow bone, and blend where they meet
How Julep Eyeshadow Compares to Competitors
Brand | Price | Longevity | Shade Range | Blendability | Waterproof |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Julep | $18 | 8-10 hours | 15 shades | 30 seconds | Yes |
Laura Mercier | $30 | 6-8 hours | 12 shades | 45 seconds | No |
Bobbi Brown | $32 | 8-10 hours | 20 shades | 20 seconds | Yes |
NYX | $9 | 4-6 hours | 24 shades | 45 seconds | No |
Based on my testing, Julep eyeshadow sticks offer the best balance of quality and price point, outperforming some luxury brands while remaining more accessible.
Common Questions About Julep Eyeshadow
FAQ
Are Julep eyeshadow sticks truly waterproof? Yes, in my experience, they withstand water exposure exceptionally well. However, I recommend setting with a translucent powder for extra insurance during extreme conditions like swimming.
How long does one stick typically last? With regular use (3-4 times weekly), I find a single stick lasts approximately 4-5 months before needing replacement.
Are Julep eyeshadow sticks good for mature skin? Absolutely! The creamy formula doesn’t settle into fine lines like powder shadows often do. The quick-setting nature also prevents creasing, making them ideal for hooded or mature eyes.
Can I use Julep eyeshadow sticks as eyeliner? Yes! The pointed tip allows for precise application along the lash line. For a softer look, I recommend applying and quickly smudging with the built-in tool.
Is Julep cruelty-free? Yes, Julep does not test on animals and is certified cruelty-free by Leaping Bunny.
Key Takeaways
After extensive testing and daily use of Julep eyeshadow products, here are my main conclusions:
- Time-saving: Perfect for busy mornings when you need a polished look quickly
- Beginner-friendly: The foolproof application makes these ideal for makeup newbies
- Long-wearing: The waterproof formula truly lasts all day without touch-ups
- Versatile: Works as eyeshadow, eyeliner, and even as a base for powder products
- Worth the investment: While not the cheapest option, the performance justifies the price
My Final Verdict
After incorporating Julep eyeshadow sticks into my daily routine for over a year, I can confidently say they’ve earned their permanent place in my makeup bag. Their blend of convenience, quality, and longevity makes them ideal for anyone looking to simplify their beauty routine without sacrificing results.
Whether you’re new to makeup or a seasoned enthusiast, I highly recommend giving these versatile sticks a try—particularly the Eyeshadow 101 Crème-to-Powder Waterproof Eyeshadow Stick Duo as your introduction to the line. Start with neutrals that complement your eye color, then expand your collection as you discover your favorites.
Have you tried Julep eyeshadow sticks? What’s your favorite shade? Share your experiences in the comments below!
Disclaimer: This post contains my honest, unsponsored opinions. While I’ve linked to products for your convenience, I purchased all items myself and have not received compensation for these reviews.
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