Eyeshadow is one of the makeup world’s most versatile beauty products. It comes in a wide variety of colors, textures and finishes to complement every skin tone, eye color and occasion. While it may seem intimidating to learn new application techniques, once you’ve mastered the basics of proper shadow placement and application, there are virtually no limits to how transformative this cosmetic can be.
To get started with this beauty essential, it’s important to choose the right shade for your skin tone. This will help ensure that your eyeshadows look natural, rather than cakey and uneven. Choosing the right primer and brushes will also help your eyeshadows stay in place for longer. Once you have these items in hand, you can experiment with a variety of different applications, from simple looks that require just a single eyeshadow to more complicated makeup designs that include multiple shades and multiple layers of eye makeup.
The simplest and most versatile way to wear eyeshadow is a classic nude eye makeup look that can be used for any occasion. Start by applying a light, neutral eyeshadow to the entire lid of your eye and up to the brow bone. This will serve as a base for the rest of your look and help all subsequent colors to apply more smoothly and evenly.
Next, take a medium shade and work it into the crease area of your eyelid, using a blending brush to reduce harsh lines. With the same brush, add a darker shade to your outer corner crease, blending it into the medium shade for a smooth transition. Finally, add a bit of glitter to the lid and upper waterline for a sparkly finish that’s perfect for an evening out.
A similar but slightly more dramatic makeup look can be achieved with a monochromatic application of eyeshadow. This is a makeup trend that uses shades from the same family to create a completely cohesive and stylish aesthetic. There are many ways to achieve this look, from the one and done Monochromatic One & Done application to the more dramatic Smoky Eye application technique.
If you’re looking for a simple yet sophisticated makeup look, consider the Navy & Purple Smokey Eye application. This is a gorgeous makeup style that will suit any occasion, from a special night out to a formal dinner party. Start with a light nude shade for the base and add a dark violet shade to your crease area, working it upward to your outer corner for a bold effect. Add a black eyeliner pencil to define your lower waterline, smudging it out for a dramatic effect and then finish with two coats of mascara to lift and enhance the eyes.
Another easy yet elegant eyeshadow look is the Brown & Plum Smokey Eye. This is a great look to wear for a special occasion, like a wedding or holiday party. Start with a brown eyeshadow on the lid and work it up to the crease area. Next, use a blush pink eyeshadow to color the crease and blend it out with a blending brush. Lastly, use a black eyeliner to define the lower waterline and smudge it out for a dramatic effect. Finally, add a bit of glitter for a glitzy finish that’s sure to turn heads.