I had the Benefit Creaseless Cream Shadow in Birthday Suit for months before I finally got around to appreciating it. It's described more as a brown shade, but when I wear it on the lids, it's always more cool toned than it looks in the pan. Another shade that's photographing more brown than taupe is the Rimmel Scandaleyes Shadow Paint in Rich Russet. I wasn't convinced by the liquid eyeshadow formula for the longest time, even though everyone kept raving about it. But after my friend made me use hers, I came back with two of these in my possession less than 24 hours later. I know, I'm easily persuaded. But honestly, this liquid shadow is everything the hype about and more. I'm not a fan of using fingers so after applying this with the doe-foot applicator, I blend out the edges with a MAC 217 and go on with my frolicking around. This will stay put for the rest of the day.

While I can wear the previous two taupes on its own or as a base, the Maybelline Color Tattoo in Permanent Taupe is one that I'm only going to use as a base. The matte finish of this drugstore cream shadow results in me looking like I'm recovering from a punch to the eye when I wear this on its own. However, this alone on the lash line creates a really natural shadow, perfect for those low maintenance days.