Urban Decay Naked 3 Palette Tutorial: A Comprehensive Guide
Welcome! This guide unlocks the potential of the Naked 3, a palette celebrated for its rose-gold tones and universal appeal;
It’s a true crowd-pleaser, offering looks ranging from subtle daytime shimmer to dramatic evening glam, suitable for all skin tones.
Many find the palette incredibly versatile, even those newer to eyeshadow application, and it’s a significant step up from previous Naked iterations.
The Urban Decay Naked 3 Palette represents a significant evolution in the iconic Naked series, shifting away from the cooler-toned neutrals of its predecessors towards a captivating range of rose-gold infused shades. Released to widespread acclaim, it quickly became a staple for makeup enthusiasts of all levels, praised for its versatility and flattering color story.
Unlike the Naked 1 and 2, which focused on browns and grays, Naked 3 introduces a warmer, more romantic aesthetic. This palette isn’t just about neutral eyeshadows; it’s about creating dimension and luminosity with shades that complement a wide spectrum of skin tones. Many reviewers highlight its ability to enhance natural beauty, offering both subtle daytime looks and bold evening glamour.
The initial response was overwhelmingly positive, with many declaring it a must-have addition to any makeup collection. Even those initially skeptical of another Naked palette were won over by its unique color selection and exceptional blendability. It’s a palette designed to inspire creativity and empower users to explore a variety of eye makeup styles.
Palette Overview & Shade Breakdown
The Naked 3 Palette boasts twelve eyeshadows, meticulously curated to deliver a range of rose-gold, plum, and bronze hues. The formula is renowned for its rich pigmentation and incredibly smooth texture, allowing for effortless blending and buildable color intensity. The shades are divided into three distinct rows, each offering a unique spectrum of tones.
The first row features lighter, more ethereal shades like ‘Limit’ and ‘Pale Rider’, perfect for highlighting and creating a soft wash of color. The middle row introduces deeper, more defined shades such as ‘Dust’ and ‘Burnout’, ideal for adding dimension to the crease and lid. Finally, the bottom row showcases the most intense shades – ‘Darkside’ and ‘Blackheart’ – designed for creating dramatic smoky eyes and defining the lash line.
Notably, the palette includes both matte and shimmer finishes, providing versatility for various looks. Shades like ‘Mugshot’ and ‘Factory’ offer a velvety matte texture, while ‘High-Life’ and ‘Liar’ deliver a captivating shimmer. This balance ensures the palette caters to diverse preferences and allows for endless creative possibilities.
Understanding Skin Tone Suitability
The Naked 3 Palette is remarkably versatile and generally flatters a wide spectrum of skin tones. Its rose-gold and neutral-plum shades are particularly well-suited for fair to medium complexions, enhancing their natural warmth and luminosity. However, even deeper skin tones can beautifully rock these shades, utilizing the deeper browns like ‘Darkside’ and ‘Buck’ to create contrast and definition.
For those with cooler undertones, the plum and mauve shades within the palette will complement their complexion beautifully, adding a touch of sophistication. Warmer skin tones will shine with the rose-gold and bronze hues, bringing out their golden undertones. It’s important to remember that makeup is about self-expression, and experimentation is key!
Individuals with more refined tastes might find some of the shimmer shades a bit too intense, but these can be easily toned down with a lighter application or paired with matte shades. Ultimately, the Naked 3’s adaptability makes it a fantastic addition to any makeup collection, regardless of skin tone.
Base Application & Primer Recommendations
Achieving optimal results with the Naked 3 Palette begins with a flawless base. Start with a quality eyeshadow primer – this is crucial for preventing creasing, maximizing color payoff, and ensuring longevity. Urban Decay’s own Primer Potion is a classic choice, but other options like NARS Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base or Milani Eyeshadow Primer work wonderfully.
Apply a thin, even layer of primer across the entire eyelid, extending slightly above the crease. Allow it to dry completely before applying any eyeshadow. For a more intense look, consider using a concealer as a base, particularly with lighter shades like ‘Pale Rider’ and ‘High-Life’. This will help the colors pop and prevent them from appearing patchy.
Ensure your eyelid skin is clean and hydrated. A well-prepped lid is the foundation for a seamless blend and vibrant color. Don’t skip this step – it truly makes all the difference in the final outcome!
Daytime Look: Subtle Rose-Gold Eyes
For a sophisticated, everyday look, we’ll focus on enhancing your eyes with a soft, rose-gold shimmer. This look is perfect for the office or a casual outing, offering a touch of glamour without being overpowering. Begin by applying ‘Limit’ all over the lid as a base transition shade. This neutral pink will create a smooth canvas for blending.
Next, gently blend ‘Dust’ into the crease, focusing on the outer corner to add subtle definition. Use a fluffy blending brush and windshield-wiper motions to ensure a seamless transition. Apply ‘Pale Rider’ to the center of the lid, concentrating the color where the light naturally hits. For a brightening effect, dab a tiny amount of ‘High-Life’ in the inner corner and under the brow bone.
Keep the rest of your makeup minimal to let the eyes shine. This look is all about effortless elegance!
Step 1: Transition Shade Application (Limit)
Begin with ‘Limit’, a beautiful, matte pale pink, as your transition shade. This crucial first step lays the foundation for seamless blending and prevents harsh lines. Using a large, fluffy blending brush – think windshield wiper motions – gently apply ‘Limit’ into the crease of your eye. Start lightly, building up the intensity gradually.
Focus on applying the shade slightly above your natural crease, blending upwards towards the brow bone. This creates the illusion of a lifted, more open eye. Don’t bring the color too far down onto the lid; the goal is a subtle wash of color, not a defined crease. Remember, a well-blended transition shade is the key to a professional-looking eyeshadow application.
Ensure there are no visible edges – the color should seamlessly melt into your skin. This step is about creating a soft base for the subsequent shades.
Step 2: Crease Definition (Dust, Mugshot)
Now, deepen the crease with ‘Dust’ and ‘Mugshot’. ‘Dust’, a matte taupe-mauve, will add subtle dimension. Using a smaller blending brush than before, apply ‘Dust’ directly into the crease, concentrating on the outer V of the eye. Blend back and forth, ensuring a smooth transition from ‘Limit’.
Next, take ‘Mugshot’, a deeper matte brown-plum, and apply it to the outer third of the crease. This adds depth and smokiness. Blend meticulously to avoid any harsh lines – the key is a gradient effect. Focus on building intensity gradually; it’s easier to add more color than to remove it.
Remember to keep the blending brush clean to prevent muddiness. These shades define the eye shape and create a beautiful, sculpted look. The goal is a softly defined crease, not a stark line.
Step 3: Lid Color (Pale Rider, High-Life)
Time to illuminate the lid! Begin with ‘Pale Rider’, a shimmering champagne with pink undertones. Using a flat shader brush, gently pat this shade across the entire eyelid, from lash line to brow bone. The pearl formula in Naked 3 provides a beautiful sheen, but build the color gradually to avoid over-application.
Next, take ‘High-Life’, a metallic rose-gold, and apply it to the center of the lid. This adds dimension and a pop of color. Concentrate the shade on the center, blending outwards towards the edges. The combination of ‘Pale Rider’ and ‘High-Life’ creates a stunning, multi-dimensional effect.
For a more intense look, dampen your brush slightly with setting spray before applying ‘High-Life’. This will enhance the pigmentation and create a foiled effect. Blend seamlessly to ensure a smooth transition between the shades.
Step 4: Inner Corner & Brow Bone Highlight (Gash, Strange)
Brighten and lift the eyes! Take a small, precise brush and gently apply ‘Gash’ – a shimmering pinky-gold – to the inner corner of the eye. This instantly brightens the entire look and makes the eyes appear more awake. A little goes a long way with this shade, so use a light hand.
Now, for the brow bone highlight, use ‘Strange’ – a unique, silvery-pink shade. Apply it directly under the brow bone, following its natural arch. Blend upwards and outwards to seamlessly integrate the highlight with the skin. This creates a lifted, sculpted effect.
For a more dramatic highlight, you can also apply a touch of ‘Strange’ to the center of the eyelid, over ‘High-Life’. This adds extra dimension and catches the light beautifully. Remember to blend thoroughly for a flawless finish!
Evening Look: Smoky Rose-Gold Glam
Transform your daytime rose-gold into a sultry evening look! This buildable smoky eye utilizes the Naked 3’s richer tones for maximum impact. Begin by intensifying the base created in the daytime look, preparing for deeper shades. This look is perfect for a night out, showcasing the palette’s versatility.
The key is blending – ensuring a seamless transition between shades. Don’t be afraid to experiment with layering colors to achieve your desired intensity. This palette truly shines when creating dramatic looks, proving it’s more than just shimmery shades.
This look is a fantastic way to explore the palette’s potential, even for those with limited eyeshadow experience. The rose-gold tones are universally flattering, making it a crowd-pleasing choice for any occasion. Prepare to turn heads!
Step 1: Deepen the Crease (Darkside, Buck)
Now, let’s add depth and dimension! Using a fluffy blending brush, gently apply Darkside, the deepest shade in the palette, into the outer V of your crease. Focus on building color gradually – remember, it’s easier to add than to remove! Blend well to avoid harsh lines, ensuring a seamless transition;
Next, take Buck, a slightly warmer brown, and blend it into the remaining crease area. This will soften the intensity of Darkside and create a more blended, smoky effect. Continue blending until the colors meld together beautifully.
This step is crucial for creating a dramatic, yet sophisticated look. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the amount of product – adjust to suit your eye shape and desired intensity. A well-blended crease is the foundation of any stunning eye look!
Step 2: Lid Color & Blending (Burnout, Liar)
Time to illuminate the lid! Begin by applying Burnout, a stunning rose-gold shimmer, all over the eyelid using a flat shader brush. Gently pat the color onto the lid to maximize pigment payoff and minimize fallout. Build the intensity to your liking – a little goes a long way!
Next, take Liar, a deeper rose-gold with a subtle shimmer, and apply it to the outer third of the eyelid. This will add depth and dimension, complementing the lighter Burnout shade. Blend Liar seamlessly into Burnout, ensuring a smooth transition between the two colors.
Focus on blending the edges of Liar upwards and outwards, connecting it to the crease colors from the previous step. This creates a cohesive and harmonious look. Remember to blend, blend, blend for a professional finish!
Step 3: Lower Lash Line Definition (Factory, Blackheart)
Adding definition below the eye is key for a smoky effect! Take a small pencil brush and gently apply Factory, a muted mauve-plum shade, along the lower lash line. Start from the outer corner and blend inwards, stopping about two-thirds of the way. This creates a soft, diffused line.
For a more dramatic look, use Blackheart, a deep blackened-red shade, to smudge along the outer third of the lower lash line. Blend this carefully with Factory to avoid harsh lines. The goal is a smoky, blended effect, not a stark contrast.
Be mindful of application intensity – a little Blackheart goes a long way! Keep the lower lash line definition softer than the upper lid to maintain balance. This step adds depth and completes the smoky rose-gold glam look.
Step 4: Highlight & Finishing Touches (Gash, Strange)
Brighten and lift the eyes with strategic highlighting! Using a small, precise brush, apply Gash, a shimmering light pink, to the inner corner of the eye. This instantly brightens the entire look and makes the eyes appear wider and more awake.
Next, take Strange, a unique, pale-gold shimmer, and apply it along the brow bone. Blend it seamlessly to highlight the arch and lift the brow. Avoid applying too close to the eyebrow itself to prevent a harsh line. A subtle highlight is key.
For an extra touch of glamour, you can also dab a tiny amount of Gash to the center of the lower lid. This adds dimension and catches the light beautifully. Finish with your favorite mascara and a touch of lip color for a complete look!
Swatching & Pigmentation Analysis
Let’s examine the color payoff! The Urban Decay Naked 3 palette generally boasts excellent pigmentation, though some shades perform better than others. Swatching reveals a range of finishes – from buttery mattes to intensely shimmering metallics.
The mattes, like Limit and Dust, offer buildable color and blend beautifully. The shimmers, such as High-Life and Burnout, deliver a vibrant, reflective sheen with minimal fallout when applied correctly. Some users note the pearl formula is particularly refined.
However, a primer is highly recommended to maximize intensity and prevent creasing, especially with the lighter shades. Dry application can result in a less impactful color. Overall, the Naked 3 provides a diverse range of shades with good to excellent pigmentation, making it a versatile addition to any makeup collection.
Comparing Naked 3 to Other Naked Palettes
How does Naked 3 stack up? Compared to the original Naked and Naked 2, the Naked 3 distinguishes itself with its predominantly rose-gold toned neutral palette. While Naked 1 focused on smoky browns and greys, and Naked 2 offered cooler-toned neutrals, Naked 3 introduces warmer, more romantic shades.
Many users who found Naked 2 slightly underwhelming have embraced Naked 3’s versatility. Some even report favoring Naked 3 over the original, citing its broader appeal and easier-to-blend formula. However, those who heavily favored the cooler tones of Naked 2 might miss that specific aesthetic.
Ultimately, the “best” Naked palette depends on personal preference. Naked 3 offers a unique color story, making it a valuable addition even for those who already own other Naked palettes, providing expanded options for diverse looks.
Tips for Avoiding Fallout & Maximizing Blendability
Minimize mess and maximize impact! The Naked 3, while beautiful, can be prone to fallout, particularly with the shimmer shades. To combat this, tap off excess product from your brush before applying to the lid. A gentle hand is key – build up color gradually rather than applying heavily at once.
For optimal blendability, use high-quality brushes and work in thin layers. Circular motions, with a light touch, will help seamlessly blend the shades together. Primer is crucial; it creates a smooth base and enhances color payoff, reducing patchiness.
Consider using a damp brush to intensify shimmer shades, but be mindful of fallout. Setting spray applied to your brush before dipping into a shade can also help minimize powder kick-up and improve adhesion.
Palette Longevity & Repurchase Potential
Is the Naked 3 a lasting investment? Many users report significant pan usage over extended periods, indicating excellent longevity, despite potentially favoring other palettes initially. While some may gravitate towards newer releases, the Naked 3 consistently remains a beloved staple for its versatile rose-gold tones.
The repurchase potential is high for those who frequently utilize warm-toned eyeshadows. Its universal appeal and suitability for various skin tones contribute to its enduring popularity. However, individuals preferring matte palettes or less shimmer might explore other options.
Considering its initial launch and continued relevance, the Naked 3 demonstrates strong staying power in the beauty community. It’s a palette that continues to inspire looks and receive positive feedback, solidifying its place as a classic.