Beauty
10 Eye Makeup Ideas That is Simple Yet Stunning Looks You Can Create
Explore easy Eye Makeup Ideas that deliver a flawless finish. Whether it’s a subtle everyday glow or a bold statement, these simple yet stunning looks help you shine with minimal effort!
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Eye makeup is one of those enhancements that can either change your looks slightly for an everyday look or drastically for special occasions.
There are so many different looks and ways to heighten our looks for whatever occasions we want, quickly and effortlessly.
Many different kinds of eyeshadows come in powders, creams, loose glitter, liquid, etc. to play with.
Then there are eyeliners, eyebrow makeup, and mascara to polish off your desired look.
The magic lies within those little (or big) palettes, pencils, or even tubes filled with an array of wonderful colors to give your creativity what it needs to shine, glow, or intensify.
The tips and tricks we will discuss are easy, versatile, and just plain ol’ fun to do by yourself or with someone else.
And… no, you don’t have to be a makeup artist to learn the tips and tricks I have in store for you.
Photo by Lisa Saephan
In This Post:
• Essential Tools and Products for Eye Makeup
• 10 Simple Yet Stunning Eye Makeup Ideas
• Tips for Choosing the Right Eye Makeup Look
• Eye Care Tips for Makeup Lovers
Essential Tools and Products for Eye Makeup
Tools are of the utmost importance when it comes to working around the eyes. So, what is it that we need to invest in?
It shouldn’t cost too much to get some quality brushes that will help you apply or… should I say create your desired look.
Here are some of the most basic tools to have in your arsenal.
• Eye Shadow brushes
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- Flat shader brush: Great for applying eyeshadow on the eyelids with accuracy
- Blending brush: This brush is a must for blending and softening harsh lines from the application of the eyeshadow(s) to create a flawless look
- Crease brush: This brush was made to apply and blend shadow into the deepest parts of the creases for added depth.
- Smudge brush: Typically, this brush is used to smudge eyeliner or for working in eyeshadow along the lower lash line.
- Angled brush: This can be used to define your eyebrows or apply eyeliner with exact precision.
These are the ones I use, and they give you an idea of what to look for, but some of these brushes were gifts, and I have many.
I find that it is nice to have spare brushes on hand, of the same ones, because when you wash your brushes, it can take a couple of days to dry.
This way, while you’re waiting for the other sets to dry, you still have extras to use that are clean and ready to go.
I highly recommend this if you’re a makeup enthusiast, because your life will be so much easier this way. I will link to ones I recommend that are comparable if I cannot locate the exact ones.
Photo by Lisa Saephan
Photo by Lisa Saephan• Eyelash curlers is part of the finishing touch. When you curl your eyelashes before applying mascara, it opens up your eyes and enhances the effect of your mascara for a polished and wide-eyed look.
Anyone works, but I use one made by Maybelline. Check it out here.
Photo by Lisa Saephan
Photo by Lisa SaephanMaybelline eyelash curler, $7.08
• Eyeliner brush – If you use gel or powder eyeliner, a good, angled brush is necessary for defining lines or if you want to slightly smudge the liner. I don’t really use one, but if you use a powder or gel type eyeliner, you probably use one. Here is great set that is highly ranked on amazon.
Eyeliner Brushes Set, 4 PCS, right now it sells for $4.99
• A brow brush, like a spoolie or an angled brush, helps to groom, define, and tame those eyebrows so that you can get that desired professional brow look. I love the one Anastacia has, and it doubles as an eyebrow brush on the other end.
Photo by Lisa Saephan
Photo by Lisa SaephanAnastasia Beverly Hills – Brush – #7B, $17
Must-Have Products:
• Eyeshadow primer: Just like your face primer, there are primers for your eyelids to help your eyeshadow last longer and help the colors stay vibrant.
This is the one I use and keeps my eyeshadow on all day.
Photo by Lisa Saephan
Photo by Lisa SaephanElizabeth Mott Thank Me Later Eye Primer, $14.65 for a 10g tube.
• Eyeshadow palettes are so much fun. These days, there are so many different colors of the rainbow to offer you whatever your creative heart desires.
Photo by Lisa Saephan
Photo by Lisa SaephanMy favorite one is the Laura Geller Cinnamon + Spice Eyeshadow Palette- It is a bit pricey, but I actually used to be a FABFITFUN subscriber, and it came with one of my seasonal boxes.
So, no, I didn’t buy it at the regular price, but I am glad I got this with my box.
However, if you want this exact one, you can still purchase it only through their site. I think these colors, although they were meant for Fall, go well with summer makeup too.
• Mascaras can enhance, lengthen, or volumize your lashes to liven up your eyes.
I love the COVERGIRL Clump Crusher Water Resistant Mascara by Lash Blast in Very Black (used to be waterproof) – in Very black (0.44 fl oz tube for $8.43).
I wear contacts, so I want to make sure my mascara isn’t smudging or getting in my eyes, especially when I don’t have any contact lens care products on hand.
This provides me with the security that it won’t smudge or get in my eye before the day is over until I am ready to clean my eyes and face off.
Photo by Lisa Saephan
Photo by Lisa Saephan• Eyebrow pencils, powders, and gels help to define and fill in eyebrows to frame the face and complete any look.
I love the Anastasia Beverly Hills eyebrow products like the Brow Wiz in Dark brown because it doesn’t budge, and I still have a full eyebrow by the end of the day.
I have used this exact brand and color for years now. I use the brow wiz to outline, and then I fill in with another Anastasia Beverly Hills product, the Brow Powder Duo in the shade Medium brown.
I use it with the Anastasia Beverly Hills – Brush – #7B. This brush comes with a spoolie on the end, so I can brush out the color for a natural look.
Then I finish off with the Anastasia Beverly Hills – Clear Brow Gel, giving it a finished and defined look.
This last step is optional, but in my opinion, it gives it a cleaner and natural look.
I have really thin brows that don’t seem to want to grow in quickly enough, so this helps to make them look fuller and the look of eyebrows at all for me.
If these products seem too expensive for your budget, listen, I get it. Look for something from the drug store that’s comparable.
I have used e.l.f. products too, and it’s more affordable, and it works.
Photo by Lisa Saephan
Photo by Lisa Saephan
Photo by Lisa Saephan
Photo by Lisa Saephan- Eyeliner pencils, powders, liquid, felt tip, gel, and cream can define and enhance the eyes, creating the illusion of fuller lashes. It can add drama and intensity, help adjust eye size and proportion and can also complement eye color.
I like the waterproof eyeliner by Physicians formula, I currently have any one hand, so its time to stock up, but I can link to it.
What I love about it besides that it is waterproof, is that it has lash boosting serum too.
Yep, you heard me right. It really works too. However, you’d have to try it for yourself to see if it will work for you.
Physicians Formula Eye Booster Super Slim Liquid Eyeliner, $8.19 per tube.
Start with a Clean Canvas
Starting your eye makeup with a clean slate is important for smooth and lasting eye makeup. I will give you the steps on what to do to prepare your eyelids for any look you want to achieve.
• Start with clean eyelids. Cleaning the eyelids gets rid of any excess oil for a smooth start. Use a non-oil-based cleanser like micellar water to avoid leftover residue that will make makeup adherence problematic.
• The use of eyelid primer can even out skin tone, reduce oiliness, and prolong the application of the eyeshadow.
• Setting eyelid primer with setting powder can help with creasing and creating a matte base.
Lightly dust with a translucent setting powder over primed eyelids to lock in the primer and create a smooth base for the eyeshadow application.
Related: Savings in Style: How To Cut Your Own Hair at Home
10 Simple Yet Stunning Eye Makeup Ideas
Photo by Lisa Saephan
Photo by Lisa Saephan• Natural Everyday Look
To get that polished, “no-makeup” makeup looks, use neutral tones and blend softly.
Nude shades are used for subtle enhancements. You can watch a step-by-step tutorial here from Fashionista.
I love everyday no-makeup makeup looks because sometimes I don’t want to deal with a lot of my mornings not starting right.
No fuss is a must…sometimes. During these mornings, I just use a good BB or CC cream, eyebrows, classic winged eyeliner, and mascara.
Photo by @flormar_ireland on IG
Photo by @• Classic Winged Eyeliner
Who doesn’t love a timeless and chic winged eyeliner? It’s suitable for any occasion, and it just gives it that perfect wing to your lashes to complete any style you’re going for.
To achieve symmetry and explore other variations of it from thin to bold wings, head over to Nykaa Beauty book for step-by-step instructions. I truly love a good old-fashioned winged liner.
Photo by @ciara.vi on IG
Photo by @• Shimmer and Glow
For a subtle pop of glam, add a glitter or shimmer eyeshadow. It is great for a daytime party or a casual evening out.
Consider glittery shades like champagne, rose gold, or soft peach. Visit Smitha Deepak’s channel on YouTube for a step-by-step guide.
Photo by @beautybymariaruth on IG
Photo by @• Smokey Eye in Minutes
The Smokey Eye can look quite intimidating, but some techniques make this marvelous style an ease for those of us who don’t consider ourselves artists.
It requires fewer shades and results in a quicker process. For a softer, smokey eye variation, utilize grey, brown, or plum tones. Here is a tutorial from Pouted.com.
Photo by Depositphotos
Photo by Depositphotos• Pop of Color
A single vibrant shade, such as electric blue, emerald, green, or bold pink, added to the lower lash line or lid creates just the pop of color needed to lift the eyes up. This allows for experimenting with fun looks without doing too much.
For insight and instructions, check out: Beautify and creatify.
Photo by Depositphotos
Photo by Depositphotos
• Monochromatic Look
Mono, which means “one,” is a technique where the person’s eyeshadow, blush, and lipstick are all in similar hues like pink, terracotta, or mauve.
For a cohesive appearance, blend well to achieve balance. Here is a tutorial from Ashleykaymakeyup.com.
Photo by Depositphotos
Photo by Depositphotos• Halo Eye Effect
For a 3D effect, apply a bright or shimmery shade in the center of the eyelid. It is a great look for parties or festive occasions.
A darker shade is blended on the outer corners of the eye to create a halo effect. To achieve this look, visit smithadeepak’s YouTube channel.
Photo by Depositphotos
Photo by Depositphotos• Graphic Liner
Eyeliners are a perfect finishing touch to any style, but have you considered graphic liners? They’re currently trending in eyeliners; in case you didn’t know.
The designs can get wicked cool, but like anything else, you’d have to practice getting to where some of these experts are capable of.
This one is for people who are more fashion-forward and want an edgier look using gel liners or felt-tip pens.
Here is a beginner-friendly YouTube tutorial video from Glamour Vibes – by Sara Khan.
Photo by Depositphotos
Photo by Depositphotos
• Soft Cut Crease
Perfect for weddings or any formal event, this look needs accuracy with concealer and brushes.
To achieve a defined crease blend edge for a sophisticated finish. For a step-by-step tutorial, check out Denitslava Makeup’s YouTube channel.
Sophisticated with some glam is perfect for formal occasions. I love this clean and sophisticated look that looks good on almost any eye shape and color. I would do this look as a wedding guest as well.
Photo by Depositphotos
Photo by Depositphotos• Glitter Glam
For a dramatic effect, consider all-over glitter eyelids. Pair with subtle lip shades or a dramatic red to balance the look.
For guidance, check out Tania Lockhart on YouTube.
Glitter always reminds me of Christmas time and New Year’s Eve celebrations.
A time to celebrate the upcoming year and be glamorous while doing it. So, this is when I normally would use a lot of glitter.
Photo by Depositphotos
Photo by DepositphotosRelated: 7 Steps for The Perfect DIY Manicure You Can Totally Do at Home
Tips for Choosing the Right Eye Makeup Look
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What is the occasion?
- Day events vs. Night events
During the day, I like a more neutral or subtle color, but in the evenings, I tend to opt for a dramatic look or use bolder colors. Go for a smoky eye or use more vibrant palettes from your eyeshadow collection. - Formal vs. casual environments
For a more formal setting, I prefer classic and polished makeup such as sleek eyeliner or softer shades. Whereas casual settings call for free rein to play with colors and current trending techniques.
- Day events vs. Night events
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Matching your eye shape can enhance your natural features.
- Almond eyes: If you have almond eyes, you won’t have a problem with what style looks good because you can do many looks, especially when the outer corners are emphasized, it will accentuate the natural symmetry.
- Hooded eyes can benefit when a dark shade is applied slightly above the natural crease, creating the illusion of depth and lift.
- Monolid eyes: To add dimension, use the gradient shading technique. Also, extended eyeliner wings should be considered to lengthen the eyes.
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Skin tone and personal style
When you choose colors that complement your skin tone, it can enhance your entire look.
- Fair-skinned folks should consider softer shades such as taupe, champagne, and pastels.
- Medium-skinned folks may want to consider warm tones like bronze, copper, and gold, which can be flattering on them.
- Darker-skinned individuals should opt for richer shades like burgundy, navy, and metallics, which complement their skin beautifully.
Additional tips:
Makeup can reflect your personal style. Whether you’re looking to have a classic, elegant look or looking to be bold and trendy, choose a look that makes you feel good and confident in your choice.
So, with that being said, the best thing to do is give it a try and see if it works for you or not.
It’s always a blast to experiment. I love to experiment and see what comes from blending shades and seeing what is possible.
Take these tips into consideration and add your personal touches, and who knows, you may have just invented a new trending look.
Related: How To Easily Start Your Makeup Journey: Makeup for Beginners
Eye Care Tips for Makeup Lovers
Proper eye care is beneficial for makeup enthusiasts to preserve healthy eyes, lashes, and brows. Here are some helpful tips to consider:
• To remove eye makeup, use gentle, non-irritating makeup removers that are formulated for the eye area. Do not use harsh chemicals, as they may irritate the sensitive skin around your eyes.
– Remove makeup using a soft cotton pad. Gently pressing the pad against closed eyelids will help to dissolve the eye makeup before you wipe. This minimizes irritation of the eyes and the sensitive skin around them.
– Try to limit the use of waterproof mascara or eyeliner. It is harder to take off, and that increases the risk of irritation or damage.
• Maintaining healthy lashes and brows
– Tools like brushes and applicators should be kept clean to avoid bacterial growth that can lead to infections or breakouts.
– Avoid sharing your eye makeup to keep from cross-contamination and possible eye infections, as it can be highly contagious. I know this all too well, because I used to work for eye doctors, and the things we saw were unspeakable; just don’t do it.
– Keep track of your products and make sure they are not expired. Mascara should be replaced every three months, along with other eye makeup products, to avoid using expired products or the fact that they may harbor bacteria.
• Sensitive eyes or Contact lens wearers
– Choose a product that is labeled hypoallergenic or ophthalmologist-tested to steer clear of irritation.
– Before putting eye makeup on, put your contact lenses in so you won’t have to deal with pieces of eye makeup getting in your eyes and irritating them.
This is something I know all about, and it is not the fun kind of reapplying your makeup. AIN’T NOBODY’S GOT TIME FOH DAT!
– Tightlining is something that you’ll want to avoid when wearing contact lenses. If you don’t know, tightlining is when you apply eyeliner to the inner rim of your eyelids.
This technique is a bad idea for those with sensitive eyes or someone wearing contacts, because it can contaminate the lenses and irritate sensitive eyes.
Well, now that I have given you tips and ideas on eye makeup, I hope the tips and techniques will help you when you play with different looks and even adapt your daily or glam looks.
As you can see, some of these gorgeous looks are easier and more versatile than you may have anticipated.
Experimenting with a multitude of styles gives you endless possibilities in discovering what shades and styles enhance your natural features. What’s most important is confidence!
Makeup is just like art, and it is meant for you to have fun and be as creative as you want.
Don’t shy away from trying a new look, mixing techniques and styles, and appreciating your individuality.
The more you explore and practice, the sooner your skills will become refined. Enjoy the exploration!
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