I Tried Nabla Cosmetics’ Ruby Lights Palette—Here’s My Honest Review
Listen, I love a good makeup moment as much as the next person, but when it comes to glitter eyeshadows, I’ve always been skeptical. Between the mess, the fallout, and the need for special primers, they often feel like more trouble than they’re worth. But when I kept seeing Nabla Cosmetics’ Ruby Lights palette all over my Instagram feed, something about it caught my attention. Maybe it was the unique transparent packaging, or perhaps the way each shade seemed to capture light in the most mesmerizing way—either way, I knew I had to try it.
Spoiler alert: This little quad has completely changed my mind about glitter eyeshadows.
What Makes This Palette Different
First things first—this isn’t your typical glitter palette. Nabla Cosmetics, an indie Italian brand that’s been generating major buzz lately, has created something truly unique.
The palette features four stunning shades that manage to be both bold and wearable (a rare combination when it comes to glitter shadows).
When the palette first arrived, I was immediately struck by its luxe presentation. The slim, transparent golden case is unlike anything else in my collection. Each shadow appears to float within the compact, creating an almost jewel-box effect that makes reaching for it feel special every single time. The palette is surprisingly compact yet sturdy, making it perfect for both your vanity and travel makeup bag.
The Shade Breakdown
Each shade in the Ruby Lights quad brings something different to the table:
- Ruby: This is the showstopper of the palette—an intense ruby red with gold and flamingo reflects that somehow manages to look both bold and sophisticated. Under different lighting, you’ll catch glimpses of holographic violet, making it incredibly dimensional.
- Capricorn: A duochrome copper-gold that shifts between warm bronze and electric coral. This is probably the most versatile shade in the palette, perfect for both day and night looks. The tangerine reflects give it a unique edge that sets it apart from typical bronze shadows.
- Virgo: A complex mauve with holographic lime, amethyst, and rose-gold multi-reflects. This shade is particularly stunning for creating depth and dimension in eye looks. The holographic elements catch light in the most beautiful way without looking costume-y.
- Whisper: An intense rose-coral with amber reflects that works beautifully as an inner corner highlight or all-over lid shade. This is the shade that surprised me most—it photographs beautifully and adds warmth to any eye look.
Application Tips & Tricks
After experimenting with these shadows for several weeks, I’ve discovered some foolproof ways to get the most impact with minimal fallout:
Best Application Methods
- Finger application delivers the most intense payoff
- Use a flat synthetic brush slightly dampened with setting spray for precise placement
- Pat and press the product rather than sweeping or swiping
- Layer over a tacky base for maximum longevity
- Try applying over black eyeshadow for a more dramatic effect
Base Products That Work Best
The formula is remarkably versatile, but I’ve found it performs exceptionally well over:
- Traditional eyeshadow primers
- Cream eyeshadows
- Concealer set with translucent powder
- Color bases for different effects
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Through trial and error (mostly error), I’ve identified several key mistakes to avoid when working with this palette:
Application Mistakes
- Applying too much product at once (build up gradually instead)
- Trying to blend the glitter (these are meant to be patted on)
- Skipping eye primer altogether
Storage Mistakes
- Leaving the palette open during application
- Storing it sideways (keep it flat to prevent product shifting)
- Keeping it in a humid bathroom
Perfect Occasions to Rock These Shadows
One of the things I love most about this palette is its versatility. Here’s where these shadows truly shine:
Formal Events
- Holiday parties and New Year’s celebrations
- Wedding guest looks (just avoid outshining the bride!)
- Black-tie galas
- Anniversary dinners
- Cocktail parties
Special Occasions
- Birthday celebrations
- Concert nights
- Fashion events
- Photo shoots
- Festival season
- Gallery openings
The Bottom Line
At €27 (approximately $30), the Ruby Lights palette sits firmly in the luxury category. However, after using it consistently for several weeks, I can confidently say it’s worth the investment if you’re in the market for high-quality glitter shadows. The formula is unlike anything else in my collection—it delivers intense sparkle that actually stays put throughout wear, with minimal fallout and maximum impact.
What sets this palette apart isn’t just the quality of the glitter or the stunning packaging—it’s the thoughtfulness behind the shade selection. Each color works beautifully on its own but can also be combined for more dramatic looks. The shadows layer well over other products and play nicely with different formulas, making them incredibly versatile.
TL;DR
If you’re looking to invest in a luxury glitter palette that combines wearability with high-impact sparkle, Nabla’s Ruby Lights quad is worth every penny. The unique shade selection, minimal fallout, and stunning packaging make it a standout in an oversaturated market. Just remember: a little goes a long way, and proper application is key to getting the most out of these shadows.
Editor’s Note: While Nabla Cosmetics is available through various retailers, I purchased my palette directly from their website to ensure authenticity. The brand is cruelty-free and vegan, making it a conscious choice for beauty enthusiasts who prioritize ethical beauty products.
