Ever since the '80s, blue eyeshadow has been the preserve of fashion shows and photoshoots—because (let's face it) what looks good on the runways certainly doesn't always translate into real life. That is, until now. Take a short scroll through your TikTok FYP or Instagram feed, and you'll notice that blue eyeshadow really is having a moment. Indeed, celebs such as Kendall Jenner and Hailey Bieber have already cosigned the trend—wearing it in a way that feels fresh, cool, modern and decidedly not 1985.
If you're wondering how the words "cool", "fresh" and "modern" could apply to blue eyeshadow looks, I totally get that. I've dabbled with everything from matte pink eyeshadow to glitter eyeliner, but blue has always felt a little intimidating. The thing is, it doesn't have to be. There are plenty of soft and subtle ways to wear blue eyeshadow for everyday, as well as more bold and fun looks to try if you're feeling creative.
Simply put, there are many, many ways to embrace blue eyeshadow; it's all about finding the right shade, texture and finish for you. To give you some inspiration, I've rounded up an edit of some of my favourite blue eyeshadow looks, along with the best blue eyeshadows to shop, from eyeshadow sticks to palettes and more. Don't forget your favourite eyeshadow primer, too.
The Best Blue Eyeshadow Looks
1. Grey Blue
Soften a blue eyeshadow look by mixing in a little grey shadow to make it feel more neutral and wearable.
2. '60s Blue
If you do want to go bold and bright, build pigment all over the lid and define the crease for a '60s-inspired effect.
3. Baby Blue
A light dusting of pale blue eyeshadow always looks so, so pretty.
4. Blue Shift
Create a colour-shift effect by blending in some purple shimmer.
5. Blue Liner
Eyeshadow doesn't need to cover the full lid; try applying it along your lash line instead, like you would with eyeliner.
6. Dusty Blue
This dusty, denim-like blue feels so cool and modern.
7. Blue Smoky Eye
Why not add some colour to your classic smokey eye?
8. Blue Shimmer
Heading out-out? Apply a layer of shimmer over your blue eyeshadow.
9. Blue Glitter Liner
This bold blue glitter look is perfect for a party or festival season.
10. Pale-Blue Wash
A pale blue like this one will make darker eyes pop.
11. Blue Under-Liner
Lining the lower lash line is the ultimate cool-girl makeup look.
12. Bright Blue Wing
This bright blue winged liner look is one to bookmark for summer.
13. Mermaid Blue
If you have green eyes, opt for a more green-toned blue eyeshadow, such as teal or turquoise.
14. Icy Blue
I'm obsessed with this icy-blue glitter makeup look.
15. Matte Blue
The matte finish, the winged shape, the defined lower lashes? Perfection.
16. Powdery Blue
This cool lavender-blue shade pairs perfectly with lashings of mascara and a peachy-pink lip.
17. Ocean Blue
This green-blue glitter look with smokey liner is ideal for an evening event.
Shop Blue Eyeshadows
This pale matte blue eye pencil from Victoria Beckham Beauty is perfect for soft and subtle blue eyeshadow looks.
Not into bright blue? A deep navy is a chic alternative.
Whether worn alone or used to add a pop of blue to a smokey eyeshadow look, this delivers a powerful punch of pigment.
This palette of deep blue shadows would look amazing applied all over the lid, or used to line the lash line.
Thanks to its cream-to-powder formula, this pale blue locks in place and doesn't fade or smudge.
Want options? You can craft multiple blue eyeshadow looks using the range of textures and finishes in this miniature palette.
Urban Decay's eye pencils are so soft and creamy, you can scribble and blend them all over your lid or use them to create a more precise look.
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