5 Different eyeshadow techniques you need to try

Last week we showed you how to do the eye contour. This week we’re introducing you to different eyeshadow techniques: a great way to make your favorite eyeshadow palettes more versatile.

It’s safe to say that with face masks in place, our eye makeup game has taken the front seat over the last 18 months. Now, as people look to ditch their coverings, we think eye makeup is going to make an even bigger statement. Whatever your preference, mask or no mask, this summer is all about the eyes and experimenting with different eyeshadow techniques.

Need of some eyeshadow inspiration?

Different eyeshadow techniques:

Modern smokey eye: a new take on the classic smokey eye with a modern twist.
Halo eyeshadow: light and bright eyeshadow in the centre of your eyelid with a dark contrast in a halo effect.
Dewy eyeshadow: dramatic and bold color with a dewy finish.
A pop of color: add a pop of color with our new Limitless Eyeshadow Palettes.
Soft winged eyeliner: a soft take on the classic winged eyeliner, a thin line with immediate precision.

Technique one: modern smokey eye

Eyeshadow for hooded eyes

The smokey eye is one of the most classic eye makeup looks in the beauty world. Simple and seductive, it takes a dark eyeshadow with an added touch of eyeliner to create a sultry look that will give you undeniable confidence. To add a modern twist to this classic look, step away from the cool and blacked out edges, switching up the color theme.

Our Limitless Eyeshadow Palettes come in a range of warm, cool and neutral tones. The modern smokey eye embraces different color intensities. Experiment with a range of colors, from the rich jewel-toned red in Limitless Eyeshadow Palette 3 to the khaki green shade in Limitless Eyeshadow Palette 1. The modern smokey eye is sophisticated and allows you to adapt to your preferred color palette.

Technique two: halo eyeshadow

Halo eyeshadow (also known as spotlight eyes) has become very popular in recent years. This technique involves applying a darker eyeshadow on the inner and outer corners of the eyelid with a lighter shade that fades into the centre of the eyelid. The Halo eyeshadow technique gives the appearance of larger, rounder and wider eyes.

If you’re unfamiliar with this eyeshadow technique, you simply apply a darker eyeshadow shade deep into the outer corners of your eyes and blend out, focusing on this area. Then add the same shade to the inner corner, leaving a blank space in the middle of your eye. You can add a smudge of concealer to the centre of your eyelid, then apply a lighter, shimmer eyeshadow shade, blending it into the darker shade. To create the perfect halo eyeshadow look you can use any color palette of your choice, though blending the brown, khaki green and silver shades in Limitless Eyeshadow Palette 1 is a definite go-to.

Technique three: dewy eyeshadow

Dewy eyeshadow is the perfect combination of fresh-faced and natural with a balance of drama. You can add a burst of color or you can keep it minimal, sticking to a gloss.

Before adding the dewy finish, sweep a nude eyeshadow (it can be any shade you like) into the crease of your eye, continuing along the lower lash line. Then, using a shimmer shade, gently pat into the eyelid to get maximum payoff. To complete the dewy eyeshadow look, use our Galactic Lid Gloss in the shade that best suits the color scheme of your already-applied eye makeup.

For example, if you have opted for a brown nude eyeshadow look, use our shade Solstice. Apply a small amount onto your finger and tap gently, using small patting motions across your eyelid. Keep as close to your lash line as possible as gloss can naturally shift.

Technique four: a pop of color

If you’re short on time but want to make a statement: add a pop of color to your makeup in less than five minutes. Perfect for a summer evening, choose a matte or shimmer eyeshadow and apply lightly across the entire eyelid and blend. To create a more dramatic look for an evening out, smoke out to the outer corner with a darker shade.

Technique five: soft winged eyeliner

A good liquid eyeliner is, without a doubt, a staple in our makeup routine, but why not add a slight twist to your eyeliner? Instead of going straight in with our Black Magic Liquid Eyeliner, use a matte eyeshadow to create a soft winged eyeliner.

Use a thin brush for precise application. Map out the shape of your wing – whether you prefer soft and subtle or a more dramatic winged-out look. By using eyeshadow, it means you can experiment with different colors going from day to night. To take this look one step further, add liquid eyeliner on top of the eyeshadow to create a duo eyeliner look for a bit of drama.

Krista Thurrott

Writer and expert

When I’m not writing or perusing the beauty section, I'm usually applying skincare or trying a new eyeliner. Most confident in minimal makeup with a bold lip, I invite you to join me on my journey to find the perfect mascara and red lipstick!