Hey beauty lovers! Today I’m diving DEEP into Maybelline’s Shadow Blocks Eyeshadow Palette in the shade “North 3rd & Bedford Ave.” After using this for several weeks and collecting feedback from dozens of users, I’ve got the real deal on whether this stacked trio is worth your cash.
First Impressions & Packaging
Let’s talk about what you notice right away – this thing is TINY! Many users were surprised by its compact size. While that makes it super travel-friendly (seriously, it takes up almost no space), it also means you’re getting less product than you might expect.
The stacked design is unique but has mixed reviews. Some find it convenient while others mentioned it’s “difficult to use in a hurry due to the different compartment levels.” And heads up – unlike many compacts, there’s NO MIRROR included, which several users found disappointing for something meant to be portable.
The Colors & Pigmentation
The “North 3rd & Bedford Ave” palette features earth tones that work beautifully for creating natural looks or building up to something more dramatic. The three-shade system gives you:
- A light base shade (top level)
- A medium transition shade (middle)
- A deeper defining shade (bottom)
Here’s where opinions really vary. Some users absolutely LOVE the color selection, saying they’re “exactly what I was looking for” with “a little sparkle with darker and lighter colors!” The top shade works perfectly as a base coat before adding the other colors.
BUT… pigmentation is definitely hit-or-miss. Many users reported having to layer repeatedly to get true color payoff. One user put it bluntly: “It doesn’t seem to have a lot of pigment in the colors. I had to put it on pretty thick to get the color to really show.”
Some even noticed color shifting after application, with one customer returning the product because “When applied, they give an orangey hue… the colors don’t wear like they appear in the image online.”
Application & Texture
The shadows have a surprisingly soft texture that most users enjoy. They’re “very smooth in applying” and “glide on” easily without much effort. This makes them beginner-friendly and great for quick application.
However, that softness comes with a price – FALLOUT. One disappointed user mentioned “So much fallout and little pigment. Once applied the colors just washed out and that was with using UD’s eyeshadow primer.”
Staying Power
Longevity reports are all over the place! Some say it “lasts all day” while others claim “it does NOT LAST. NOT WORTH THE MONEY!”
Interestingly, one user who doesn’t believe in using eye primer (calling it “a money making gimic”) still found the shadow stayed put without creasing. Your mileage may vary depending on your skin type and the conditions you’re wearing it in.
Value For Money
At its price point (usually under $10), most users feel they get decent value, especially considering the quality of drugstore makeup has improved dramatically over the years. One customer summed it up as “Best color choices, easy to apply at good prices 🙂”
However, those expecting high-end performance might be disappointed. The small size and pigmentation issues make some feel it’s not worth the investment.
Potential Issues
Beyond the pigmentation concerns, there were several reports of product damage during shipping. Multiple users received palettes with the middle color “broken in chunks and unusable” or “smashed when it arrived.” This suggests the formula might be too soft for its own good.
Another common complaint is that sometimes the top two shades look nearly identical, with one user noting “the second color is almost exactly the same as first. Too light.”
Who Is This For?
This palette seems best suited for:
- Makeup beginners looking for foolproof colors
- People who travel frequently and need compact options
- Those who prefer natural, everyday looks
- Anyone who values convenience over intense pigmentation
As one user pointed out, it might be “best for a young teen learning to use makeup” rather than makeup enthusiasts looking for vibrant, impactful shadows.
The Bottom Line
Maybelline’s Shadow Blocks has significant PROS:
- Super compact and travel-friendly
- Smooth, easy application
- Harmonious color selection
- Affordable price point
- Good for natural, everyday looks
But also notable CONS:
- Limited pigmentation requiring multiple layers
- Possible color discrepancy from packaging to real life
- No included mirror
- Fragile formula prone to breaking
- Smaller product amount than expected
My Final Verdict
For the price, Maybelline’s Shadow Blocks in “North 3rd & Bedford Ave” delivers decent performance with some caveats. It’s perfect for those who prefer subtle eye looks and value convenience over intensity. The earth tones are universally flattering and work especially well for hazel and brown eyes.
If you’re someone who wants bold, high-impact eyeshadow or expects one-swipe pigmentation, you should probably look elsewhere. But if you’re looking for an affordable, portable option for everyday wear that you can build up gradually, this might be your new go-to!
Remember, at this price point, it’s worth trying to see if it works with your specific eye shape, skin tone, and application technique. Many users were pleasantly surprised despite initial skepticism!
Have you tried this palette? I’d love to hear your experiences with it! Drop a comment below and let me know if you’re team “love it” or team “leave it”!
Quick Application Tips
Based on user feedback, here are some ways to get the most from this palette:
- Use an eyeshadow primer to enhance pigmentation and longevity
- Apply with a dense brush rather than the included applicator (if any)
- Build up color gradually with multiple light layers
- Use a setting spray to minimize fallout
- The top shade makes an excellent inner corner highlight!
Similar Alternatives
If you like the concept but want more pigmentation, consider trying:
- NYX Professional Makeup Ultimate Shadow Palette
- e.l.f. Bite-Size Eyeshadow Quads
- L’Oreal Paris Colour Riche Pocket Palette
Happy makeup-ing! 💄✨
Buy on Amazon: Here
