Review: MAC Studio Fix Sculpt and Shape Contour Palette

I want to say this: don’t forget about MAC, my beauties.

Yes, there are newer, shinier make-up brands springing up all over. True, there are older heritage brands hollering about their history and cultural weightiness. But do yourselves a favour and remember MAC — for years the industry leader and still a remarkable player.

The MAC counters and shops still have the feel of one big make-up artist’s toolkit. It’s a backstage vibe; a little rough but very creative. If you have that elusive sense of what you might want in your head — in terms of colour or texture or look — MAC is the brand to actualise that for you. Every visit is an expedition.

My last field trip delivered the Studio Fix Sculpt and Shape Contour Palette that is, to my mind, among the best of its kind. It houses six shades: three matte contouring powders (from taupe through to brick) and three highlighting powders (from cream to palest peach). The formulations are typically MAC; finely ground and designed to blend and stay put, which they do. But I love the fact that I haven’t had to make a decision about how I will choose to design my face until I sit down in front of the mirror, because my face changes according to all sorts of factors. And so I need options. This palette allows for everything from super-subtle daytime shading with delicate illumination round eyes and cheekbones, to the canvas for an immaculately (ruthlessly, even) sculpted party face. Don’t forget MAC. When it comes to make-up, they are truly the big guns.

MAC Studio Fix Sculpt and Shape Contour Palette, £35 (maccosmetics.co.uk)