Mastering the Art of Metallic Eyeshadow
Don’t be afraid to try this season’s bold, gilded and platinum lids — the secret to wearing this look off the runway is soften the glitter by layering it over a matte, deep-earth tone. Makeup artist Diane Kendal played glittery shadow off of deep chocolate liner at the Jason Wu show, creating a sophisticated yet romantic look that complemented the ethereal fashions.
Makeup at the Jason Wu show (Photo: Mark Liebovitz)
You needn’t limit yourself to just gold shadow; after all, all that glitters is not gold, and any metallic shadow — silver, pewter, copper — can achieve the requisite elegant shimmer. Instead of smudging eyeliner pencil to contour above the crease, however, I suggest smoothing a cream-based color with your finger or a small eyeshadow brush. Cream eyeshadow is easier to blend; mistakes are virtually imperceptible, and it can also be brushed along the lash line to double as eye liner. A great one to try: RMS Cream Eyeshadow in Karma.
RMS Beauty Cream Eyeshadow in Karma (Photo: RMS Beauty)
The color should be most intense at the crease and lash line and winged at the outer corner. You can either blend a mid-tone shade over the entire lid or simply use a lighter wash of the dark cream shadow.
Next, layer on a metallic color of your choice — this will instantly brighten your eyes. I have my eye on Dior’s new crème-gel eyeshadow in Hero. Or, you could go for the gold with RMS Cream Eyeshadow in Solar. If you’re primping for a holiday fête, you’ll want to dust your lids with loose glitter, but remember to dip your brush in water, as recommended by Kendal, to intensify the effect and keep the powder in place.
Diorshow Fusion Mono Eyeshadow in Hero (Photo: Dior Beauty)
Finish the look with several coats of mascara, and perhaps an application of your favorite faux lashes for greater drama.
