Eyeshadow Basics

First of all makeup is all about expressing yourself, what makes you feel beautiful, and creativity. There are no hard and fast rules. YOU DO YOU!

But, a lot of times, women are intimidated by eye shadow looks and colors. To be honest, I was completely one of those people. Whether you don't wear much eye shadow, are looking to branch out, want to use more of those pallets you already own, or are wondering what to purchase next, I have a few tips to share. Remember these are only tips; if you like it go for it!

Some basics:

~ Blend and then blend some more! The difference between black eye and glamorous smoky eye is all about blending. If you can make windshield wiper motions and small circles, you can do eye shadow.

~ Start with less. You can add more and layer colors, but it's much harder to take it off without starting over. If it seems like too much try blending it more.

~ Keep darker colors on the outside corner or at your lash-line (this depends a little on eye shape). You do not want to put a dark color on the entire lid or the inner corner or your eyes will look smaller and squintier. If you're looking for something really easy, try applying the color from your lash-line up to just above the crease. This will give a natural gradient with just one color. The counter part to this is use lighter or shimmer shades on the inside portion of the eye lid (closer to your nose).

~ Pull some color above your crease. This will give you more area to work with and let you see more of the color if you have hooded eyes. Do not take this advice to mean apply eye shadow all the way to your brow bone!

~ Do mix and match shimmer and matte shades. It doesn't have to be one or the other. Obviously it can be, but shimmer will add an additional dimension and help pick up light.

Colors:

First of all, I'm a big believer that you can't go wrong with neutrals like tans and browns. But, if you're looking to expand some, think about the undertone of the color or even using color. I think we all learn about the color wheel in elementary school art. Picking a complementary color or undertone is a great way to make your eye color pop!

~ Blue eyes: Browns, tans, coppers, and champagnes are always a good option. To branch out consider some orange tones like peach or coral to contrast your blue eyes.

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~ Green eyes: Browns, tans, and golds are always flattering. To branch out try red undertones or purples and pinks to contrast your eye color.

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~ Brown eyes: Again, browns, tans, and golds are never a wrong answer. With probably to most options to branch out, think about pinks, greys, and even greens and blues.

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Again, these are totally just tips and suggestions. They are not rules! This post is entirely about encouraging you to try something different and feeling more confident with your eye shadow game. If you try any of these out I'd love to see it, please tag me on Instagram!

Have a little fun!! Try something different, remember it's only eye shadow it washes off.