Ted Baker make-up review: Or why first impressions can be misleading

Aleksandra Kontic
Published: November 20, 2024
Updated: November 21, 2024
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Ted Baker has always been a brand close to my heart. Their designs are the embodiment of graceful femininity, a dream I clung to as a kid growing up amidst the drab browns and burnt oranges of the 1970s. Their clothing is stunning, their accessories divine, but I had no idea they ventured into make-up.

That changed one Christmas when my sister surprised me with the Ted Baker All Eyes on Ted gift set. It was a vision. Soft pastel hues, gold accents, and packaging that screamed elegance. I gushed over it at first, but then skepticism set in. Make-up from a fashion label?

I shelved it, literally on my bookcase, until a procrastination-fueled morning compelled me to try it.

Ted Baker, I owe you an apology.

Here’s a complete review of each product in the set:

What’s in the Ted Baker All Eyes on Ted Set?

The set is a compact yet diverse collection:

A powder eyeshadow palette
Three eyeshadow crayons
A liquid eyeliner
A mascara

Each product boasts a soft pastel color scheme, paired with metallic gold packaging that feels luxurious and sturdy.

Powder Eyeshadow Palette

The palette includes three shades:

A light pink shimmer for all-over application
A dusky pink for depth and shadow
A soft highlight shade

All three carry a subtle sparkle – not full-on glitter, but enough to catch the light beautifully. They’re versatile enough for daytime wear and can transition to an evening look with a little layering.

My favorite? The dusky pink shade works wonders as a single-color wash for an office-friendly vibe.

Performance

The shadows apply smoothly, with minimal fallout. Using an eyeshadow primer enhances their staying power, but I noticed that without one, they do tend to fade after a few hours. The compact size makes the palette travel-friendly, so touch-ups are easy.

While not the most pigmented shadows I’ve ever tried, the delicate, fresh colors are ideal for summer. They add a light, modern touch to your look without veering into “old-fashioned pastel” territory.

Eyeshadow Crayons – Quick and Fuss-Free

ted baker make up — *The formula is creamy and glides on effortlessly.*

The crayons come in three shades:

Rose gold
Taupe (a soft brown)
Highlight (a champagne shimmer)

These are perfect for mornings when you’re pressed for time but still want to look put-together. Just a swipe and a quick blend with your finger or a brush, and you’re good to go.

Performance

The staying power impressed me—no creasing or smudging, even on a warm day. The texture is soft enough to blend easily but firm enough to hold its shape. The taupe shade, in particular, has become a daily staple for me.

Why did I wait so long to embrace eyeshadow crayons?

These are game-changers for anyone who values speed and simplicity. The colors are flattering and versatile, making them suitable for day-to-night transitions.

Liquid Eyeliner

I’ve had a love-hate relationship with liquid liners. The right eyelid always cooperates, but the left? Disaster strikes. The Ted Baker liquid eyeliner, however, surprised me. The ultra-fine nib gives you incredible control, allowing for a delicate, precise line right at the lash base.

I didn’t experience the dreaded mid-line smudge that forces you into thickening the liner over and over.

It stays put throughout the day without smearing. This liner has earned a permanent spot in my make-up bag.

It’s a lifesaver on bold red-lip days when a sharp eyeliner look is non-negotiable.

Mascara

Unfortunately, the mascara didn’t live up to the high standard set by the other products. While the fine brush does a great job separating lashes and adding definition, the formula itself let me down.

By the end of the day, I found smudges under my eyes, a classic case of panda eyes.

If long-lasting mascara is what you need, this might not be the one for you. I’ll be sticking to my trusty budget mascara instead.

What About Packaging?

One thing Ted Baker undeniably nails is presentation. Each product in the set feels weighty, substantial, and thoughtfully designed.

The rose gold and pastel color scheme is chic, and the sturdy construction of the palette makes it perfect for travel.

FAQs

1. Is Ted Baker make-up suitable for sensitive skin?

Yes, the products I tried were gentle on my skin, and I didn’t experience any irritation. However, if you have particularly sensitive skin or allergies, it’s always a good idea to check the ingredient list or test a small area before using the products regularly.

2. How does the Ted Baker liquid eyeliner compare to other high-end brands?

While it might not have the cult following of luxury brands, the liquid eyeliner performs exceptionally well. Its fine nib offers precision that rivals higher-end products, making it a fantastic option for those who struggle with liquid liners.

3. Are the eyeshadow crayons buildable for more dramatic looks?

Absolutely! The eyeshadow crayons work well for layering. You can start with a light swipe for a subtle daytime look or build the intensity by adding more layers. Pairing the crayons with the powder shadows from the palette can also help you achieve a bolder effect.

4. Do the products have a fragrance, and is it overpowering?

The products have a faint, pleasant scent, nothing overwhelming. It’s subtle enough that you might not even notice it during application..

5. Would the Ted Baker make-up range work well for beginners?

Yes, especially the eyeshadow crayons and liquid eyeliner. The crayons are foolproof and easy to blend, while the eyeliner’s fine tip makes it less intimidating for those new to liquid liners. The soft, wearable colors also make the set a good choice for anyone just starting out with make-up.

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The Overall Verdict

Ted Baker’s All Eyes on Ted gift set is a mixed bag, but its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses. Standout products:

Liquid eyeliner: Precision and longevity
Eyeshadow crayons: Convenient and versatile

Could be improved:

The powder eyeshadow palette needs better staying power.
The mascara was the biggest miss for me.

If you’re looking for elegant, easy-to-use products that fit seamlessly into your everyday routine, the All Eyes on Ted set offers plenty to love. Ted Baker, you’ve proven your flair for beauty as well as fashion and I’ll be trusting you a little more from now on!

Beauty Tips, Cosmetics, First Impressions, Honest Review, Make-up Review, Makeup Trends, Ted Baker

Aleksandra Kontic

I'm Aleksandra Kontic, a content creator and writer for 50sense, a celebrated platform known for its engaging content focused on health and wellness. My academic journey led me to study English language and literature at the Faculty of Philosophy in Novi Sad, where I sharpened my writing skills and analytical abilities. This educational path paved the way for my career in content creation, where I continue to thrive in delivering compelling narratives.