From runway models to Miley Cyrus, strong metallic looks are becoming a major trend. Whether you prefer a more subtle approach or you want to go full out with your metallic eyeshadow and make a big fashion statement, there are a few things you should know.
Discover some of the best metallic eyeshadow tips and tricks, that will help pull off any look. From knowing that colors work best for you to application tips and the right way to balance it with the rest of your makeup, here’s what you need to know.
Pick the Right Color
Feel free to experiment with whatever shade looks the best to you, but there are a few simple guidelines based on your skin tone. While rose gold is beautifully flattering on any skin tone, shades of silver and platinum work best for a pale complexion, while gold and bronze are perfect for olive skin. If you have darker skin, you can pull off pretty much every shade you want.
Apply Carefully
When it comes to application, your best bet is trial and error. For some products, one of the most important metallic eyeshadow tips is to apply using with your fingers, so you avoid drying it out with a brush and ending up with a look that won’t stay pun. Whether you apply with a brush or your fingers, always start at the center of your eyelids and work towards the corners.
photo: Ken Pao
Always Pair with Mascara
If you’re going out all with a beautiful metallic shade, you simply can’t skip the mascara. It won’t just help make the look pop, but your eyes will also benefit from the definition. Whether you prefer a volumizing or a lengthening mascara, always stick to black, no matter what metallic shade you choose in order to get the best effect.
Don’t Forget to Highlight
Even if your eyeshadow is a light shade, you should still make sure to highlight the inner corner of your eyes for a better finish. A lighter silver can work if you’re using a cool shade, but one of the best metallic eyeshadow tips is to use a touch of white regardless of your metallic color of choice.
photo: Ken Pao
Adapt Your Eyeliner
If you’re going for a strong metallic shade and you’re completing the look with a black mascara, you don’t really need the eyeliner. However, if you absolutely don’t want to skip it, then you should make some adjustment to the way you usually apply it. Go as close as possible to your lash lines, and stick to a very thin line to prevent it pushing your look too far.
photo: VS Beauty
Choose the Right Coverage
When you’re trying to achieve a specific look, either daytime or really dramatic, you need to know what products work best. For a more subtle look, opt for a shimmery powder or a touch of cream eyeshadow that you blend well for a sheer finish. If you want a stronger look, try one of the most important metallic eyeshadow tips and don’t just apply more cream eyeshadow. Instead, you should layer it for a more dramatic effect.
photo: Joachim Haslinger for DM
Don’t Skip the Primer
Unless you want to shed metallic particles constantly, you should always wear a primer to make sure the look stays intact. If you don’t have a good primer, then the second best option is to apply a cream eyeshadow in a shade close to the metallic one first.
Go Smoky
While the runways feature some really graphic looks, easily the most wearable option is a smoky metallic eye. Try one of the best metallic eyeshadow tips and don’t be afraid to experiment with different shades, mixing two different metallic ones or even a shimmery one and a regular one to achieve less dramatic look.
photo: VS Beauty
Stick to a Matte Foundation
Going for a metallic eye means that’s going to be the defining element of your look. That’s why you should always stick to a matte finish for your foundation. In fact, a BB or CC cream or even a tinted moisturizer can work fine, as long at the final effect is matte.
photo: Harrods Magazine
Keep It Balanced
Using the right metallic eyeshadow tips will help you get the look you want, but always remember to keep everything balanced. If you want a strong lip, then you should definitely opt for a more subtle effect on the eyes, otherwise your makeup will end up looking like you’re trying way too hard.
