As someone who has spent years testing and reviewing beauty products, I’m excited to share my thoughts on the Maybelline New York Expert Wear Quads Eyeshadow in Mocha Motion. This affordable quad has developed quite a following, particularly among makeup enthusiasts looking for reliable, everyday neutrals. Available in a convenient pack of two (totaling 0.34 oz), this eyeshadow collection promises versatile color options in a travel-friendly package. But does it deliver on its promises? Let’s dive deep into everything you need to know about this popular drugstore eyeshadow.
First Impressions and Packaging
The Maybelline Expert Wear Quads come in a compact, clear-top plastic case that allows you to see the colors immediately. Each quad contains four coordinated shades designed to work together for a complete eye look. The packaging is practical rather than luxurious – lightweight, secure, and perfectly sized for travel or everyday makeup bags.
While some customers noted that the product is smaller than expected, the compact size makes it ideal for those who want to minimize clutter in their makeup collection. Each quad is 0.17 oz, which is standard for drugstore eyeshadow palettes in this price range.
One notable point from customer feedback: some packages do not include applicators, which several reviewers mentioned. For best results, you’ll want to use your own eyeshadow brushes anyway, as they typically provide better application than included sponge-tip applicators.
Color Story: The Mocha Motion Palette
The Mocha Motion quad features a collection of neutral, earthy tones that lean toward cool-toned browns and taupes. Based on customer reviews, the palette includes:
- A light highlight shade (described by some as white, though some customers wish it had more shimmer)
- A medium taupe/grayish brown transition shade
- A deeper brown crease/outer corner shade
- A dark brown that can double as an eyeliner when applied with a thin brush
There appears to be some variation in how customers perceive the colors, with some describing the palette as primarily brown-toned while others see it as more gray-toned. This suggests the palette has a neutral undertone that may appear differently depending on skin tone and lighting.
This color story makes it particularly well-suited for mature skin, as mentioned by several reviewers who appreciated the “softer colors” that complement aging eyes. The palette offers a sophisticated, subtle look that many find perfect for everyday wear.
Performance and Application
Pigmentation and Color Payoff
Customer feedback suggests that the Mocha Motion quad offers moderate pigmentation – not too sheer, not too intense. Multiple reviewers mentioned that the eyeshadows apply smoothly, though some noted “very light transfer,” indicating that building up the color may be necessary for more impact.
This moderate pigmentation actually makes the palette more user-friendly, especially for makeup beginners or those who prefer a subtle eye look. You can easily build the intensity without worrying about applying too much product at once.
Blendability and Texture
The shadows appear to blend well, with several customers commenting on the smooth application. The texture seems to be on the softer side without being powdery or creating excessive fallout. This makes it ideal for quick, everyday application when you don’t have time for cleanup.
The quad seems particularly well-suited for creating defined but natural-looking eye makeup. As one reviewer noted, the shades work well “for lids, and with a thin brush as liner and to define eyebrows,” highlighting the versatility of the colors.
Longevity and Wear Time
Longevity is where this eyeshadow quad really shines according to customer feedback. Multiple reviewers emphasized how well the colors last throughout the day:
- “Color stays until washed away!”
- “It lasts a long time too.”
- “Color last all day, goes on smooth.”
This impressive staying power makes it a reliable choice for long workdays or special occasions when you need your makeup to remain fresh-looking without constant touch-ups.
Versatility
The Mocha Motion quad offers considerable versatility despite its limited shade range. Reviewers noted using the colors for:
- Traditional eyeshadow application
- Eyeliner when applied with a thin brush
- Eyebrow definition
- Creating both subtle daytime looks and more defined evening looks
This multi-functionality makes it an excellent value, essentially providing several products in one compact package.
Skin Compatibility
Allergies and Sensitivity
Good news for those with sensitive eyes: several long-term users specifically mentioned never experiencing allergic reactions to this formula. One reviewer stated they had “worn this for years! Never had any allergy issues,” which suggests the formula is generally well-tolerated.
While individual sensitivities can vary, this feedback indicates that Maybelline has created a formula suitable for many people, including those who may have had reactions to other eye products in the past.
Age Appropriateness
The Mocha Motion quad seems particularly popular among mature makeup wearers. Several reviewers specifically mentioned being in their 70s and appreciating how the softer colors complement aging skin. The subdued, sophisticated color story helps enhance mature eyes without looking harsh or settling into fine lines.
As one 75-year-old reviewer enthusiastically shared: “I have switched to softer colors of eye shadows and this is one of my favorites… I get so many compliments from people on how pretty my eyes look!”
Finish and Visual Effect
Based on customer descriptions, the quad offers a balanced mix of finishes that are neither too matte nor too shimmery. As one reviewer succinctly put it: “Not too shiney, not too flat.” This creates a flattering effect that defines the eyes without drawing attention to texture or fine lines.
The colors are described as “soft but feature-defining,” creating natural definition that enhances the eyes without looking obviously made-up – perfect for those who prefer a more understated makeup look.
Value Proposition
At its price point, this Maybelline quad offers excellent value, especially when purchased in the pack of two. Multiple reviewers mentioned the affordable price as a significant benefit, with one noting it’s “a great price though Amazon.”
The longevity of both the product itself (how long it lasts on the eyes) and the pan (how long before you use it up) enhances this value proposition. Several customers mentioned purchasing multiple packs to ensure they wouldn’t run out of their favorite shades.
Potential Drawbacks
While feedback was overwhelmingly positive, a few potential issues emerged from customer reviews:
- Packaging Fragility: Some customers received products with broken shadow pans. While this appears to be a shipping/handling issue rather than a product quality issue, it’s worth noting.
- Color Accuracy: A few customers mentioned receiving colors that didn’t match their expectations. One noted: “I thought I was ordering shades of brown, what I was sent was shades of grey.” This suggests some variation in production or potential discrepancies between online images and actual products.
- Highlight Shade Quality: Several reviewers specifically mentioned dissatisfaction with the lightest shade, wishing it had more shimmer or impact.
- Size Expectations: Some customers were surprised by the compact size of the product, though this is fairly standard for drugstore quads.
Comparison to Alternatives
Multiple reviewers specifically mentioned trying other eyeshadows and returning to this Maybelline quad, suggesting it outperforms many alternatives at similar price points. One particularly enthusiastic customer stated: “I’ve tried other eye shadows and they just don’t work as good as this Maybelline eye shadow.”
The combination of longevity, smooth application, and wearable color story makes this palette stand out in the drugstore category. Several reviewers also mentioned the increasing difficulty in finding these particular color combinations in other products, making this quad somewhat unique in the market.
Who Should Buy This Product?
Based on customer feedback, this eyeshadow quad is especially well-suited for:
- Mature makeup wearers looking for flattering, age-appropriate colors
- Anyone seeking long-wearing, reliable eyeshadow for everyday use
- Those who prefer subtle, professional makeup looks
- Makeup minimalists who want versatile shades that can create a complete eye look
- People with sensitive eyes who have struggled with reactions to other formulas
- Anyone who appreciates good value and quality at an affordable price point
Application Tips
Drawing from customer feedback, here are some tips for getting the most out of the Mocha Motion quad:
- Use Your Own Brushes: Since applicators aren’t always included (and are typically low quality when they are), invest in a few basic eyeshadow brushes for best results.
- Multi-Purpose Usage: Try using the darkest shade as an eyeliner by applying it with a dampened thin brush along the lash line.
- Eyebrow Definition: The medium and dark brown shades work well for filling in eyebrows, especially for those with medium to dark brown hair.
- Building Intensity: Apply the shadows in thin layers to build up intensity gradually for the most natural-looking result.
- Combining Quads: If you purchase the two-pack, you’ll have two identical quads – consider keeping one at home and one in your travel or work makeup bag for touch-ups.
Final Verdict
The Maybelline New York Expert Wear Quads Eyeshadow in Mocha Motion earns high marks for its versatility, longevity, and user-friendly formula. While it won’t deliver the high-impact pigmentation of premium brands, it excels at creating wearable, flattering eye looks that stand the test of time.
With its affordable price point, flattering color story, and impressive staying power, this eyeshadow quad deserves a place in any makeup collection – especially for those who appreciate subtle elegance over bold statement looks.
For anyone seeking a reliable, everyday eyeshadow palette that delivers consistent results without breaking the bank, the Maybelline Mocha Motion quad comes highly recommended by both beauty experts and loyal consumers who have made it a staple in their routines for years.
Overall Rating: 4.5/5 Stars
Pros:
- Excellent longevity
- Smooth, easy application
- Versatile, flattering color story
- Allergy-friendly formula
- Great value, especially in the two-pack
- Perfect for mature skin
Cons:
- Highlight shade could be more impactful
- Some color variation between batches
- Compact size may surprise some customers
- No included applicators
In a beauty world often focused on the newest, most expensive releases, this Maybelline quad stands as a testament to the value of reliable, affordable classics that simply get the job done day after day.
Buy on Amazon: Here
