I've found eyeshadow to be a necessary part of my make up routine everyday. I feel like it helps so much in enhancing my eye shape and color. There is a lot of different things to keep in mind, such as what eyeshadow shades are best for different eye colors, what brushes to use when applying, and how to do different looks, and some random tips I've learned over the years.
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Let's talk what colors to use
It is best to stick to the eyeshadow shades that compliment your skin tone and eye shade, and remember the time of day you are shopping for and the venue you will be at will greatly influence your eyeshadow color choice.
Day Time: It is best to target the lighter and neutral shades.
Evening: This is the time suited for experimenting as you can typically get away with stronger shades and bolder colors.
I have brown eyes, and what's nice is that brown eyes can get away with wearing almost any color of eyeshadow. If you want to really make them pop then try either green eyeshadow or pink eyeshadow. With brown eyes, you can also use blue/purple eyeshadow, and if you have gold flecks in your eyes you may want to try an eyeshadow that has a gold shimmer to it. Brown eyes can even pull-off wearing brown eyeshadow, but be careful because certain tones can look muddy against your beautiful brown eyes.
If you have blue eyes, you'll want to go after golden browns, browns with a slight purple base, taupe, and slate colored grays. Have some fun with it. Try a nice rose colored eyeshadow. The coolness from the pink/purple eyeshadow will be a really nice contrast to your blue eyes.
For you green eyed girls, go after those purple shades that will really make them pop! If you want your eyes to stand out but look more natural, you may want to try warmer mocha brown shades or warm colors with slight orange undertones. Basic eyeshadow colors for green eyes would be earth tones with slight hints of gold, taupe colors, mocha browns, and lavender-purple shades. Since most green and hazel eyes has a variety of flecks, feel free to experiment with these colors so you can find the perfect one for your eyes.
The most important thing here is, don't overdue it. Less is more. Blending is key.
Eyeshadow now comes in many styles and finishes. It is available in creams, powders, liquid and pencils. There's so much out there, that I would just try out different things and see what works best for you.
It can be frosted; matte, glitter, shimmer and some are specifically designed for drier or older skin. Many manufactures now produce eyeshadow compacts with coordinated shades of eyeshadow, typically including a light, medium and dark shade.
The ever-changing trends and fashion statements have lead us to see a rise in the use of intense eyeshadow colors. Experimenting with these intense colors on your eyes can be fun. You can test eye shadow colors on the back of your hand or your inner wrist. I've realized though, that while you can grab inspiration from runway or fashion trends, sometimes it's just not meant to be worn for normal day.
Eyeshadow application will vary greatly from person to person due to eye shape, skin types and the effect you are after, although there are a few principle points on applying eyeshadow. Light shades will generally open and highlight the eyes, giving the eyes a larger look. Dark shades will add depth and dimension, while making the eyes look smaller
To start you should grab the following items of make up
Eyeshadow (light, medium, and dark shades that suit your complexion and eye color)
Makeup Brushes (E.L.F. or SIGMA has some amazing brushes that will do a great job in blending!)
Eyeliner
Mascara
Makeup remover
It is best if you start this process as you would with your normal makeup application, by applying your usual foundation and face powder.
Begin by applying a light color from lash line to brows. Shades of ivory, beige, peach or pink are common, but other light tones can work well. Then apply a medium shade from lash line to crease. Finally, accent the crease of the eyelid with the darkest shade. Blend with a soft brush to avoid removing your eye shadow or smudging. You can apply eyeliner along the lash line and use mascara to accent your eye lashes if you like. Eye makeup remover or a damp cloth can remove smudges. Some people opt to do their eye shadow and other eye makeup before applying foundation and other makeup to allow mistakes to be tidied up more easily.
And ta da! You've now learned the basics of applying eyeshadow! If you want more technical or labor intensive (haha!) tutorials, check out youtube. There are thousands of videos there to help you out.
