The debate about blue eyeshadow has been raging for decades; colour experts say only people with brown or grey eyes can wear it, makeup artists swear that blue shadow makes blue eyes pop. Some people say only very fair-skinned people can wear it, others say the shade looks best on only the darkest skin tones.
So who to believe? Personally we’ve always been big fans of doing your own thing so we say if you love it, wear it. Catwalks and red carpets have seen stars of all skin tones and hair colours rocking this electric shade so we say it’s time to stop listening to everyone else and play some blues. If you are going to try it out, here are our top tips for pulling off blue eyeshadow.
Prime Time
One of the most damning arguments against blue eyeshadow is that it looks cheap. Well we beg to differ, adventurous eyeshadow fans. The only reason an eyeshadow might end up looking cheap is if it’s been applied onto an un-primed eyelid. Popping on a bit of primer first is crucial for so many reasons. Firstly, it’ll give you a smooth base on which to apply your liner; blue is such a bright colour it can be pretty unforgiving when it comes to wrinkles and creases. Secondly, it’ll help your shadow stay in one place for longer. Lastly, blue shades can change depending on the skin tone they’re applied to. Using a primer first will make sure the shadow retains its true pigment.
Brush Up
It’s not just primer that matters when applying blue eyeshadow though. Make up artists nationwide will testify to the fact that a good brush is the difference between an edgy, ethereal eye or one that looks like it was styled by a six-year old. Make sure you have a good make up brush set that includes a proper eyeshadow brush so you can blend like a pro. If you have sensitive eyes or are rubbish at remembering to wash your brushes, it can also be a good idea to use disposable ones.
Baby Steps
Next you need to choose the right shade for you. Opinions are pretty divided on what looks good on who so this might require a little trial and error. If you don’t want to spend money buying a bright shade only to find out it doesn’t look right, start out with universally flattering blues like smoky blue-grey shades or dark navies – there are some great options in both these W7 Cosmetics In The Night Up In Smoke and Lightly Toasted Natural Nudes eyeshadow palettes. If you do want to go bright then a) good for you and b) don’t hold back; brights should be bright so go for something like the blue in this Neon Nights Electric 12 Colour Eyeshadow Palette.
Two Tone
If a one-note pop of colour isn’t to your taste, blending two shades of blue eyeshadow can look more subtle. Start with a very pale blue then blend a darker or deeper shade along your lash line and into the outer corners for a subtle shimmery mermaid look that is bound to catch eyes.
And there you have it! Some simple tips and hints to make sure your eyeshadow doesn’t give you the blues.
