Purchasing new makeup is tons of fun, but sometimes learning how to properly apply it can be a different story, especially when it comes to eyeshadow. When it comes to makeup, many people feel self-conscious venturing out and trying new things. Starting to work with eyeshadow might seem risky, but we promise you, it’s much easier (and more fun) than you think.
Who doesn’t want to give themselves a full glam look, complete with the perfect false lashes? We get that not everyone knows all the eyeshadow dos and dont’s; that’s why we’ve formulated the ultimate guide that will leave you feeling like an eyeshadow expert.
The Basics
Skipping steps is a recipe for disaster in any new skill you’re trying to learn. That’s why we’re going to start with the very basics.
Learn Your Eye Shape
This is an essential step that is often overlooked because knowing your eye shape can be a game-changer. This is the best way to know which looks will work best with your face and eye shape.
Learning your eye shape is easy, and there are tons of resources out there that you can look at for examples of eye shape. This will also help you to figure out what kind of looks you should be trying—what are celebs with your eye shape wearing?
Before You Start: What to Buy
If you’re new to the world of eyeshadow application, then chances are you’re lacking in the supply department. Knowing what makeup supplies are needed can be daunting, and there is nothing more awkward than walking into a store and not even knowing where to start, which is why we’re here to help!
1. Brushes: Having good quality brushes will make the world of a difference in any eyeshadow look you attempt. However, knowing which brushes to choose can be as big a challenge as any. Here are some basics that you will need for most shadow looks.
- Shaping brush
- Defining brush
- Dense smudging brush
- Fluffy blending brush
Step 1: Prime Your Lids
Put that brand new primer to use. Apply a thin coat of shadow primer to your lids and blend all the way up to the brow bone.
Step 2: Build Your Base
Now that all the boring basics are out of the way, it’s time to start with the fun stuff—actually applying the shadow! Most eyeshadow looks (especially beginner looks) can usually be done with just four shades:
- Neutral for the lid
- Medium shade for the crease
- Dark shade for the outer corner
- Light, shimmery highlight for the inner corner and brow bone
Step 3: Define Your Crease
Bringing some definition to that crease is a major must! This opens up the eye while also bringing dimension and layers to your look. With this added definition and flare, nobody will believe you when you tell them how easy it really was.
Achieving the Perfect Crease
A great technique for beginners is to try focusing on shading color in their crease.
1. Start with a darker color than what you used for your base. Using a smaller fluffy brush, gently buff out your darker shade from the outer corner of your eye to about two-thirds of the way over, darkening your crease further.
2. Using the same brush, create a second line that connects the outer corner of the line to the outer corner of your eyes. It should look like a sideways V. Blend it out, and pat yourself on the back!
Step 4: Blend it Out
Besides actually applying the shadow to the lid, proper blending is the most crucial step to this entire process. This is one of the top newbie mistakes made, so blend your little heart out to make sure that there are no harsh lines.
Doe Tip: Use a small, clean blending brush to buff out any edges that are being stubborn.
How to Blend
It might sound pretty self-explanatory, but blending eye shadow can be a tricky skill to master. Take your blending brush and start at the outside of the eyelid, then work your way across the entire rest of the lid. Work in small, soft circles, buffing the color in. Remember: this shouldn’t hurt, so if it does, you’re going a little too hard!
Remember that you should be blending out each color laid on your lids before applying the next layer.
Don’t Forget to Highlight
On-point highlighter has been all the rage these past few years, and the desire for that perfect dewy glow has only grown. Making sure you highlight your eyes is just as important as your cheekbones, cupid bow, or nose. Focus on the inner corners and brow bone. Adding light to these areas will leave them looking twice as big and beautiful.
To Complete the Look: Eyelashes
No makeup look is complete without giving some major attention to those lashes. If you fall into the category of having thin lashes, then consider completing your glam with a gorgeous pair of falsies from Doe Lashes. False lashes are a great way to add some flair to a simple look.
Make sure that you’re buying lashes that will sit sleek and comfortable all day (like ours, right?) so that you can look glam and feel great.
In Conclusion
You now have the tools and knowledge to start your journey of completely mastering your eyeshadow skills. Just remember that all new skills take time to perfect and that confidence is key when it comes to rocking a new makeup look.
Sources:
https://www.vogue.com.au/beauty/makeup/how-to-determine-your-eye-shape
https://www.instyle.com/beauty/beauty-products-tools/makeup-brush-guide