By Stephanie Darling
When it comes to creating the perfect eyeshadow look, we all have the same goal: brighter, bigger and more awake eyes. Eyeshadow is the most transformative make-up product and between colours, textures, contour and combination capabilities, there is no limit to creating varying bold looks.
The difference does come down to your eye shape and mastering what pigments suit you best, as well as getting the eyeshadow placement down pat (hint: it requires some good brushwork). The pigment should be blended for the day to create a wash of colour and layered up to create more intensity for party time.
A smoky almond pigmented eye is the go-to for Selena Gomez.Credit: Getty Images
This eyeshadow tool kit will help you nail the perfect look every time.
· It all begins with a clean lid so swipe the area with micellar water before applying an eyelid primer to create the perfect base for the eyeshadow to adhere to. Let the primer dry for a few seconds before applying the eyeshadow.
· Brushes are the key to good eyeshadow application and there are three that will help you to create a seamless finish: a dedicated short-haired eyeshadow brush for applying the shade; a long-haired blending brush to blend out eyeshadow and a pointer brush for precision lining.
· For cream eyeshadow, start by applying it to your lids with fingertips, then take a clean long-haired eyeshadow brush and blend gently to smooth out any harsh lines. This brush moulds to the eye crease for a great blend. Work the brush in soft, circular motions on the edges of your shadow to pick up the right amount of colour.
· Powder eyeshadows come in a vast array of finishes and colours. Matt are great for definition and satiny finishes bring light to the eye area.
· Cheat option: I really like wearing blush applied with a blush brush over the entire eyelid as I get fail-safe coverage over the entire area.
· Try doing your eye make-up first so you can mop up any fall out on your face before applying your foundation. If you have some extra time, apply an under eye mask while you are doing your eye make-up to pep up and hydrate the under eye zone.
· For a light-catching effect dab a shimmery, neutral shade on to the centre of your lids.
· Mix and match cream-based eye shadow with a matching powdered one for a long-lasting result.
According to make-up artist Liz Kelch, in her book Makeup, "It's the placement of the shadow that's really going to define your eyes. Every face is different and changes slightly over time." She has some defining notes on eye shape and what technique suits which eye.
Close set "Keep darker colours to the outer eyelid and blend outwards. Eyeliner should be applied to the outer eye area and a little highlighter on the inner corners will really open up your eyes."
Wide set "Bring your eyeliner right into the inner corners of the eyes and avoid blending out on the outer corners."
Hooded "If you want the smoky look, smoke up your lower lashline."
Deep set "The key is to bring as much light to the eye as possible, so metallic and satin finishes look great."
Almond "Just pick your look and go for it. This is the easiest eye shape of all."