How to choose (and get it right) with your new eyeshadow palette

How to make the most of some shades

To make the most of some shadows, whether in individual or palette format, the first thing to be clear about is when you want to use them. If you want them for day to day , the most suitable are those in nude tones, since with them you will achieve a more natural result. But if what you want is to cause a sensation at a party or important event with sophisticated and elegant makeup , then you should go for intense colors and even dare with a touch of gold, silver or bronze applied strategically.

What should have the ideal palette

If you put your finger on the shadow and apply it to your hand, it should be the same intensity of color that it shows in the palette . Even if you smudge a bit, the tone should show well. Within the range of colors you choose (brown, green, pink, etc.), it is important that they have different intensity to be able to make the game of gradient of the shadows when applying makeup.

Matte finish shadows create a natural effect ideal for day makeup, especially when using nude or warm tones. The earth tones (brown, stone gray, tile) offer endless combinations. Both the pearlescent and metallic finishes add shine, making these shades ideal for a holiday or evening makeup. It is not necessary to overdo it, just a touch in the upper part of the eyebrow or in the tear.

The shades that flatter and suit you

According to your eyes. There is no fixed rule and the interesting thing is to mix several tones to create depth or illuminate the look. It is not necessary to always combine the color of the shadows with that of the eyes, because sometimes they can stand out more if you are looking for opposite tones. Even so, "light eyes are more favored by brown, camel, gray and purple tones", according to the makeup artist Mª Carmen Fernández, who also highlights that "the advantage of dark eyes is that with them you can use practically any shade , the earth, gold and the whole range of roses being very flattering ”.
By the type of skin. If the eyelid is rather oily, it is advisable to use powder or cream shadows . "I prefer the latter," says the makeup artist, "because the pigment has greater fixation and they last longer, especially if you've used an eye primer before."
For dry and sensitive skin , cream and liquid shadows are also very good , "and I would not use the primer or powder shadows, because they can dry out the skin," he clarifies.

What texture do I choose?

Powdered. They are more volatile and do not have as much fixation. They are ideal for light makeup.
In cream. Not that they are creamy. Its finish is also powder, but they have more fixation and are easier to apply. You can even use your fingers.
Liquids They provide a shiny or satin tone, so they are not recommended in case of oily eyelids. His fixation is also high.
Pencil format. It is flux and the result is long-lasting, with the advantage that it is easier to apply. Ideal if you are always in a hurry.

How to apply the shadow

Prepare the eyelid using an eye primer to fix the shadow pigment and prevent color from building up in the creases of the eyelids. Choose 3 shades of shadows of the same color range and with different intensity. Apply the main shadow, put the medium tone on the eyelid with a medium brush - without reaching the arch of the eyebrow - and put the darkest shadow in the corner of the eye, following the almond shape. Blend to integrate the two shadows.

Also apply the darker shade to the lower lash line with a bevel brush. On the upper lash line , apply a black line , either with a pencil, eyeliner or a black shadow (in this case first moistening the brush). Put a few small highlights with the lightest shadow on the arch of the eyebrow and the tear duct of the eye. It is essential to complete the look with a couple of layers of lengthening and / or volumizing mascara .

What brushes do you need?

Beveled. To trace the line with dark shadow. A trick? The Beveled Brush can also be used to define brows with specific shadows.
Pointed flat. To apply with precision in the lacrimal or external part of the eye.
Flat. To extend the shadow.
Round. To blur.