Bare Truth: bareMinerals Ready Eyeshadow Quad in Truth

There's something about a good quality, well-edited eyeshadow quad that cannot be excelled; is it the simplicity of just 4 shades, the symmetry of design, the harmony of hues and textures? I'm not entirely sure, but one thing I know for certain: bareMinerals READY Eyeshadow 4.0 in Truth ($30 for 5 g/ 0.17 oz) is absolutely irresistible.

I picked this neutral browns eyeshadow quad as part of the bareEscentuals Friends & Family sale a few weeks ago after having had it on my wishlist for a couple months. You all know that I love me a great neutral palette, and I've been hearing raves about the texture and pigmentation all over the blogosphere, so I swiftly jumped on the bandwagon.

First of all, let me say that I haven't seen such wonderfully designed make-up packaging in a very long time. The box is a simple envelope style with differently textured cardboard and ingredients list on the back, as well as details about the eyeshadow formulation inside - the shadows have a SeaNutritive Mineral Complex in them which supposedly revitalizes the eye area. The compact itself is black and rubberized with rounded edges, and it really reminds me of a black stone polished by the sea, making it feel quite zen. Also, I love how the little plastic cover says 'Hello' on it, much like a friend's car that says 'Zoom Zoom' and 'Hello' when you put your key in the ignition.

The four shades inside are Serendipitous, a shimmery yellow beige, Magnetism, a warm pearl taupe, Fate, a shimmery medium warm brown and Apropos, a cool darker satin brown with microglitters. The texture of these eyeshadows is very soft and smooth and they blend out effortlessly on the eyes. Because of how soft they are, it's quite easy to incidentally pick up a little too much on the brush, however I haven't noticed any fallout when I apply. I couldn't be happier with how easy these are to use.

In terms of color selection, my least favorite is Serendipitous, just because it doesn't show up on me all that well - I think it's too close to my skintone in depth, though a lot more yellow. Magnetism is definitely a strong favorite as I love my taupes, and it's a great eyeshadow for a one-shade type of look.

In the photo below (sorry about the weird lighting!) you can see all four shades on my eyes: Serendipitous in the inner corner, Magnetism on the lid, Fate in the crease and Apropos in the outer corner and along the lashline. The 'Truth' quad is perfect for subtle everyday definition, wearable daytime smokey eyes as well as dramatic night looks.

All in all, I enjoy using the 'Truth' a lot and I'm already thinking of picking up some more Ready eyeshadows from bareMinerals. Have you tried their pressed eyeshadows? Which quad or duo is your favorite?