When you think about makeup essentials, you might think of the basics. Maybe it’s that drugstore foundation that matches your skin tone perfectly or that mascara that transforms your lashes. Perhaps it’s your signature lipstick or your go-to bronzer.
Over my 5 years in the beauty industry, I’ve learned a thing or two about which products I think are truly worth the investment. And although everyday items might be the first to come to mind, I would be remiss not to mention that some playful, colorful, and dare I say…glittery products are just as important to have available. Think about it: we’ve all had that special occasion come around, whether it’s a concert, holiday party, or another event that makes us want to elevate our look, only to realize we don’t have anything that fits the bill.
That’s where I believe multichrome eyeshadows come in. These eyeshadows can range from playful to sophisticated and can often be toned down if need be. So trust me when I say they’re a lot more versatile than they might seem. If you need proof, look no further. Below, find six highly pigmented, long-lasting multi-chrome eyeshadows that deserve a place in your makeup bag.
The Best Multichrome Eyeshadows, at a Glance
- Best for a Smokey Eye: Juvia’s Place Culture Multichrome Shadows
- Best Multi-Purpose: Danessa Myricks Beauty Infinite Chrome Flakes Multichrome Gel for Eyes & Face
- Best Designer Brand: Marc Jacobs Beauty Born Star Cream-To-Powder Long-Wear Eyeshadow
- Best for Beginners: Urban Decay 24/7 Glaze-On Shimmer Liquid Eyeshadow
- Best Budget: Sheglam Chroma Zone Multichrome Flake Gel-Hypnosis
The Best Multichrome Eyeshadows in 2026
Best for a Smokey Eye: Juvia’s Place Culture Multichrome Shadows
While there are many stunning multichrome shades out there, we’re big fans of this option from Juvia’s Place for it’s versatility. It can be used as a standalone or as the final touches of a smokey eye look. This brand is also know for how pigmented their shadows are so you can expect major color payoff that lasts all day.
Pros: Intense multidimensional color shift, highly pigmented, smooth creamy texture with minimal fallout
Cons: Requires careful application for maximum color payoff
Shades: 5
Customer reviews: “Me and my partner love going to raves and I’m always looking for new ways to do my makeup. I saw this in the store and immediately fell in love. It is so buttery smooth and pigmented. Ths color is gorgeous.”
Best Multi-Purpose: Danessa Myricks Beauty Infinite Chrome Flakes Multichrome Gel for Eyes & Face
A multi-purpose product will never not be a standout for me. This Infinite Chrome Flakes Multichrome Gel from Danessa Myricks can be used on your eyes and face, making it a great choice from special occasions like concerts or raves. For a diffused look, tap it on with your finger or a small brush. For an opaque finish, use a flat brush instead.
Pros: Intense multidimensional color shift, high-impact reflective sparkle, versatile for eyes and face
Cons: Can be messy to apply, flakes may require a tacky base
Shades: 4
Customer reviews: “Okay. so these do dry out. Just hit it with 2 drops of water from time to time and it brings it back to life a little. This is my second one, and the effect that they leave on the eyes is insane with no effort. Please don’t discontinue!”
Best Designer Brand: Marc Jacobs Beauty Born Star Cream-To-Powder Long-Wear Eyeshadow
Lately, I’ve been seeing Marc Jacobs Beauty everywhere, and this stunning copper eyeshadow is one of many products on my feed. This formula is waterproof, highly pigmented, and crease-proof for up to 14 hours. If this color isn’t your vibe, try the other multichrome shade 220 Mood Swing.
Pros: Smooth cream-to-powder texture, long-wearing color payoff, easy-to-blend formula
Cons: Some notice creasing
Shades: 2 chrome, 8 metallic
Customer reviews: “The pigmentation is gorgeous! The packaging is super cute and original, the eyeshadow shade is duo chrome, and I think it’s sensational for going to a concert and wearing makeup with lots of personality.”
Best for Beginners: Urban Decay 24/7 Glaze-On Shimmer Liquid Eyeshadow
Multichrome eyeshadows may seem a bit risky for some, which is totally understandable considering how colorful and pigmented they can be. If you’re looking for a beginner-friendly starting point, try the Urbban Decay 24/7 Glaze-On Shimmer Liquid Eyeshadow. The built-in brush makes the application process easy and mess-free.
Pros: Buildable color payoff, fade-resistant for up to 15 hours
Cons: Sets quickly
Shades: 2 chrome, 3 shimmer
Customer reviews: “This liquid eyeshadow is stunning. It’s best to have a powder eyeshadow underneath or too add eyeshadow primer. It doesn’t crease and last throughout the day. Doesn’t bother my sensitive eyes.”
Best Budget: Sheglam Chroma Zone Multichrome Flake Gel-Hypnosis
For just a single shade of eyeshadow, it’s understandable that some beauty lovers may prefer a more affordable option. That’s why it was only right to include this multichorme gel from Sheglam. The kaleidoscope-inspired eyeshadow comes in three shades that offer a high-shine finish without braking the bank.
Pros: Multidimensional color-shifting effect, high-shine flake finish, affordable
Cons: Chunky glitter texture, may require a coordinating eyeshadow base
Shades: 3
Customer reviews: “Nice texture and color shift. It stays a little bit tacky for some time and is somewhat water-resistant.”
Best Waterproof: Sephora 12h Colorful Special Effects Multichrome Liquid Shadows
Sephora offers three multichorme liquid shadows, but we’re particularly obsessed with this pigmented pink shade. The applicator makes it easy to apply and build up as desired, and the color stays on for up to 12 hours. It’s also incredibly lightweight and waterproof.
Pros: Intense multidimensional color payoff, lightweight and transfer-proof, Waterproof formula with up to 12-hour wear
Cons: May dry down unevenly
Shades: 3
Customer reviews: “I am in love! The eyeshadow went on and didn’t move until I took it off, the pigments were spot on! The way the color hits it changes from purple to blue and made my eye color pop!
How We Chose
As with all of our buying guides at Who What Wear, we compile our edits based on original testing and expert recommendations. To find the best multichrome eyeshadows, we leaned heavily on our knowledge as beauty experts. We also considered several factors, including shade range and customer reviews. We’re aware of how important these factors are for a wide range of needs and preferences, so we made sure to list out all the helpful details.
Why Trust Who What Wear
At Who What Wear, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Since 2006, our editors have tested thousands of products—including skincare, makeup, haircare, and nails—while also working closely with trusted experts, like renowned dermatologists, celebrity makeup artists, and other leading industry insiders. Together, this ensures every guide is well-researched, inclusive, and relevant to you.
Who What Wear has been a digital fashion, beauty, and lifestyle publication and community where people can discover the latest brands, trends, and must-have products to help define and evolve their personal style. Think of Who What Wear as your most trusted style and shopping resource.
