Eyeshadow is a powerful tool to enhance your eyes, and selecting the right colors based on your eye shape can make a world of difference. In addition to choosing the right shades, knowing how to apply the eyeshadow and whether to use eyeliner can help you make the most of your eye shape. Here’s a detailed guide to both choosing eyeshadow colors and applying them effectively, along with tips on eyeliner use for different eye shapes.
Almond Eyes
Almond-shaped eyes are considered the most versatile, as they can pull off nearly any eyeshadow look. To enhance almond eyes, use warm browns, soft pinks, and shimmering golds. Start by applying a medium shade on the eyelid, then deepen the outer corners with a darker shade to emphasize the natural lift of your eyes. Highlight the brow bone with a lighter shade to open up the eyes further.
Eyeliner Tip: Almond eyes can handle a variety of eyeliner styles, but a classic winged liner works exceptionally well. Start thin at the inner corner and gradually thicken the line as you extend it outward, following the natural shape of your eye.
Hooded Eyes
Hooded eyes feature a fold of skin that covers the crease, which can make the eyelid appear smaller. To create depth, choose matte shades in light and medium tones like taupe and matte browns. Apply a medium shade above the natural crease, slightly extending it outward to create the illusion of a more prominent lid. Keep the darker shades on the outer corner and blend well to avoid a heavy look.
Eyeliner Tip: For hooded eyes, tightlining (lining the upper waterline) is a great way to add definition without taking up lid space. Avoid thick eyeliner on the upper lid, as it can make the eyes look smaller. A thin line that gradually thickens toward the outer corner can enhance your eye shape.
Round Eyes
Round eyes are naturally large and open, which is a great canvas for makeup. To add length and create the illusion of almond-shaped eyes, opt for earthy tones like terracotta, deep mauves, and rich plums. Apply a medium shade all over the lid, focusing the darkest color on the outer half of the lid. Blend the darker shade upward and outward to elongate the eyes.
Eyeliner Tip: To elongate round eyes, start your eyeliner at the middle of the upper lash line and extend it outward, finishing with a slight wing. This technique pulls the eyes into an almond shape, creating a more elongated appearance.
Monolid Eyes
Monolid eyes have little to no crease, which provides a smooth, flat surface for eyeshadow. To enhance monolid eyes, choose bold, jewel tones like emerald green, royal blue, and deep purples. Apply a dark shade close to the lash line, blending upward to create a gradient effect. This adds depth and dimension to the eyes. Shimmer shades can also be used on the center of the lid for a pop of color.
Eyeliner Tip: Monolid eyes benefit from a thicker eyeliner application to make the eyes pop. Start with a thick line at the lash line and consider extending it into a wing to create the appearance of a larger, more defined eye shape.
Downturned Eyes
Downturned eyes have a natural downward tilt at the outer corners. To create a more lifted look, use warm shades like peach, coral, and soft oranges. Apply a medium shade on the lid, concentrating a darker color at the outer corner and blending it upward to counteract the downward tilt. Highlight the inner corners and brow bone to open up the eyes.
Eyeliner Tip: Focus on the upper lash line, starting from the middle of the eye and extending the liner upward in a winged shape. This will help lift the outer corners and create a more awake appearance. Avoid lining the lower lash line, as it can emphasize the downward angle.
Making the Most of your Eyes
Understanding your eye shape and selecting the right eyeshadow colors can transform your makeup look. Pairing this with the appropriate application techniques and eyeliner styles ensures that your eyes stand out in the best possible way. Experiment with different shades and techniques to find what works best for your eye shape, and enjoy the process of enhancing your natural beauty. Remember, makeup is a form of self-expression, so have fun playing with colors and styles to create your perfect look!