What makes one black eye shadow stand out from the crowd? For me, it should be pigment rich and easy to blend, so you only need to use a little bit to get the job done. Still, the number one reason why I might choose one black shadow over another is if it can be worn wet and dry — letting it double as an eyeliner without damaging the composition of the shadow.
The following blacks have been my favorites for years. They stay put, so by the end of the night they don't flake or wind up halfway down my cheeks. For those of you who have tried-and-true favorite black shadow as well, by all means let me know about it!
Laura Mercier Caviar Eyeliner in Black Caviar ($22) is categorized as an eyeliner, actually (oh the irony!) but I love to use it as a shadow as well. It's got a more textured consistency than a powder shadow, yet it's not quite a cream consistency either. The best part about it that it will never fall onto your cheeks, and it glides on easily with a brush. If you haven't yet tried it, this is a must-have.
For two more bellissima black eye shadows, read more