Merit Introduces Solo Shadow Sheen with Christina Ricci

Images via MERIT

Merit is expanding its one-and-done eyeshadow line with Solo Shadow Sheen, a softly luminous formula designed for effortless, natural radiance. Christina Ricci leads the campaign, bringing understated elegance and modern glamour to the collection.

Minimalist beauty lovers have a new reason to glow. Merit has introduced Solo Shadow Sheen, a softly luminous version of its beloved one-and-done cream eyeshadow. Building on the success of the original matte Solo Shadow, the new collection brings a subtle, modern shimmer that channels the effortless glamour of the 1990s in a way that feels refined and easy to wear.

When Merit first released Solo Shadow in 2023, it quickly became a favorite among those who appreciate quick, unfussy makeup that still feels luxurious. After countless requests from customers for a version with a touch of radiance, the brand developed Solo Shadow Sheen. The formula is the same blendable cream-to-powder texture that made the original so popular, now infused with microfine pearls that catch the light beautifully without turning into glitter. It glides on smoothly, sets on its own, and stays in place without creasing or settling into fine lines thanks to nourishing ingredients such as jojoba extract.

The sheen itself feels intentional rather than flashy. It is the kind of glow that looks natural in daylight and graceful under evening light. Instead of bold sparkle, the finish gives the eyes a soft, diffused reflection that enhances them without overpowering the look.

Solo Shadow Sheen is available in six elegant shades. Palladium is a cool silver. Glacé is a soft rose. Iris is a deep plum. Sartorial is a warm bronze. Surrealism is a classic gold. Matchbook is a muted burgundy. The palette is inspired by timeless tones that recall the grunge-to-glam spirit of the 1990s while staying true to Merit's understated aesthetic. Each color can be worn alone or layered together for dimension. Early testers have noted that even after hours of wear, the colors remain smooth and luminous without fading or smudging.

To introduce the collection, Merit partnered with Christina Ricci. Her blend of nostalgia and cool-edge made her the perfect face for the campaign. She wears shades Iris, Matchbook, and Sartorial in the imagery, creating a look that feels both familiar and current. Ricci has long embraced makeup that enhances rather than masks and spoke about her love for creamy formulas that do not settle into lines. Her natural affinity for products that balance simplicity and impact mirrors Merit’s approach to beauty.

The collaboration captures more than just product promotion. Ricci embodies quiet confidence and timeless individuality that echo Merit's values. Her presence connects the shimmer of Solo Shadow Sheen to a sense of ease and self-expression that feels authentic rather than performative.

Solo Shadow Sheen also taps into several of today’s biggest beauty trends. It reflects the ongoing revival of 1990s-inspired makeup where luminous finishes are making a gentle comeback. It speaks to a movement toward minimalist luxury where fewer products deliver better performance and fit easily into daily routines. It offers a fresh take on functional elegance where texture and tone create a polished look without effort.

In a world where eyeshadows often fall into extremes, either ultra-matte or overly glittery, Merit’s new formula finds balance. It delivers radiance without excess and nostalgia without imitation. With Ricci as its muse, Solo Shadow Sheen feels like an evolution rather than a reinvention, a reminder that beauty can be subtle, intelligent, and still make you shine.

For anyone who has always wanted to experiment with shimmer while keeping a natural finish, Solo Shadow Sheen offers the perfect middle ground. It creates a soft, intentional glow that moves with you and looks effortlessly chic from morning to night.

The Merit Solo Shadow Sheen eyeshadow collection is officially launching on October 22, 2025. Making them available for purchase on MeritBeauty.com and Sephora USA and Canada.