They say that the eyes are a window to the soul, and I'd add that eye makeup is a reflection of style. Whether you're a makeup maximalist or minimalist, onlookers catch a glimpse of your creative persona via the wash of colour splashed across your eyelids or the whisper of smoky eyeliner rimming your orbs. Your eyes don't just say that you're warm, inviting or not in the mood for talking—they also say that you have a good enough understanding of colour theory to know that rich burgundy shadow makes your brown eyes pop or that you made the conscious choice to go mascara-free to let your lipstick do the talking.

Since I'm always looking to reinvent my eye makeup, one of my first references is the French—what with their mystique, eclectically chic clothes and effortless beauty. Though Parisian women may be best known for their statement red lips, French makeup artist Violette Serrat calls one of her latest ventures, the Violette_Fr Plume Eye Shadow, one of the most authentic to her lifestyle.

"In a way, Plume Eyeshadow might be the most French-inspired formula we’ve created yet," says Serrat, the artist and brand's founder. ("After Bisou Balm," she clarifies.) "I’ve always been obsessed with the eyes in old French cinema—nothing too perfect or overly 'done,'" she explains, "just this soft, lived-in sensuality that makes you look more like yourself, but with a little mystery." Yes, there are cream eye shadow sticks, liquid shadows, and powder formulas galore, but Serrat found herself floundering when she tried to look for something sheerer, more foolproof, and perfectly French-friendly: meaning you can truly swipe and go.

"I realised there was nothing on the market that gave you that feeling in an effortless, intuitive way," she tells Who What Wear. To fill the gap, her team hit the cosmetics lab to cook up a cream-to-powder texture that offered the blending ease she sought with the smoky, gauzy finish she craved. "It has this incredible melt-to-matte effect that fuses with the skin and creates a soft veil of colour instead of something harsh or flat," she explains. In short, they're inherently immune to mistakes. In Serrat's words, the resulting blue-tinned, dreamy shadows that look closer to a trick of the light than a makeup product are things you could "build, smudge, and wear instinctively." Sounds like a French reverie.

The "French Girl" Approach

"For me, the 'French girl' approach is really about restraint," says Serrat. Sheer washes of colour and diffused colour sound easy-breezy but are typically the result of several ultra-thin layers blended into oblivion by a highly trained makeup artist. "I wanted to create a formula you could literally swipe on with your finger in two seconds and go. If you’re spending an hour in front of the mirror trying to perfect your eye shadow, you’ve already lost that effortless feeling," she adds. Effortless beauty should be effortless, no?

5 Ways to Wear the Plume Eye Shadows

Yes, I dedicated an entire paragraph of this piece to the French approach to beauty, but the secret is scarily simple—messy, hurried and virtually technique-less. However, I'm an American interpreting French beauty, so naturally I'm making things a bit more complicated. Keep scrolling to see the five ways I'm manipulating this shadow this summer.

Watercolour Wash

The first, and most authentic French technique, is the smudge-and-go. Thanks to these hazy, sheer shadows, you can rub the pad of your finger onto the cream powder and muss it onto your lids for that hazy wash of colour. "One trick I love is working the shadow onto the volume of the eye," says Serrat, referencing the centre of the lid. "I add to the centre of the eyelid, then focus depth into the crease and along the lash line, stretching it out toward the outer corner of the eye," she explains. "It gives the eyes this alive, smoky look that feels cinematic and sensual without looking overworked."

Colour Used: Pluie Violette

Hazy Liner

One of my favorite ways to do eye makeup is to accent the lash line with a soft flick of eye shadow, not liner. It's softer, making it suitable for daytime, but it can also be intensified for a deeper look once the sun goes down. (Or anytime you want, it's your world.) " I love taking a small brush and pressing it along the upper and lower lash lines, almost like a soft liner, then winging it out slightly," says Serrat. "It gives the eyes definition and depth but in a much lighter way than a classic eyeliner."

Colour I Used: Charbon Fumé

Soft Smoke

While I love tracing a clean wing with these soft shadows, the formula envelopes the eye in a seductive fog when smudged into the lash line. "I’ll use a combination of fingers and a brush to add colour across the eyelid, concentrating more depth in the outer corner and tracing it along the upper and lower lash lines," says Serrat. "Then, I’ll softly blend additional colour just above the natural crease to create the illusion of wider, more open eyes," she adds. This, she says, is a great way to "open" hooded eyelids.

Colours Used: Charbon Fumé and Bois Brûlé

Flash of Light

Think of eye shadow as an outfit: You can play with layers until the look feels right. "I’ll swipe on a shimmer shade of Plume Eyeshadow and finish with tiny accents of Lune Liner in the corners of the eyes to catch the light as the face moves," says Serrat. "I never want it to feel 'full glam,'" she states. "It should feel spontaneous, like the makeup became part of you." The key to one of these effortless yet undeniably cool looks is stepping outside your comfort zone—you won't find anything new there. "Makeup should feel expressive, not restrictive," she muses.

Colour Shown: Pluie Violette

Halo Eyes

I love a sultry halo eye after the sun goes down, and these shadows are especially suited for the occasion. The blendable cream pigments are easy to smooth over the eyes in a sheer wash, which creates a solid base for the rest of the look. With a small blending brush, I gently apply my deeper shade (in this case, Bois Brûlé) to the inner and outer corners of the eye, sweeping toward the centre but leaving a blank space in the middle. (Pro tip: Blend out any harsh edges with your fingers for a smoother look.) Selecting a shimmery accent shade, I'll coat the pad of my fingertip in the sparkling shadow and swipe it over the centre a few times to build intensity. From there, you can blend any rough lines with a fluffy brush—but don't overdo it, as the small imperfections are what keep these looks interesting.

Colours I Used: Orchidée Céleste and Bois Brûlé

More Effortless Single Eye Shadows to Try

For as long as I can remember, I've always had watery eyes, and I've always loved eye makeup. However, the two don't go well together. All it takes is a slight gust of wind or a sudden change in temperature, and my watery eyes stream and ruin my makeup.

And if you're anything like me, you've probably had your eye makeup ruined on more than one occasion thanks to those rogue tears that seemingly come from nowhere and melt away eyeliner and eyeshadow in their wake. I've lost count of the number of times a soft, smoky wing has disappeared. I have watery eyes year-round, but with hayfever season in full swing right now, I've been on a quest to find out how to stop watery eyes from ruining my makeup, once and for all.

So, I enlisted the help of Dr Elizabeth Hawkes, a consultant oculoplastic surgeon and ophthalmologist, to find out the causes of watery eyes and how to stop them from ruining your eye makeup.

What Causes Watery Eyes?

"Blepharitis is the number one cause of dry eye, which is an umbrella term that encompasses lots of symptoms, i.e., redness or a gritty or foreign body sensation and, ironically, dry eyes as the eye makes excess tears when dry," says Dr Hawkes. "There can be many causes, such as allergies, medical conditions or as a result of certain oral medications, but it’s always best to see an eye specialist or an optician as there are subtle differences."

Blocked Tear Ducts: "If it’s just one eye, it could be a blocked tear duct. If you have a blockage, you will have a watery eye, which can be caused by trauma to the tear duct. It can be congenital or caused by an infection, but it needs a thorough assessment," says Dr Hawkes. "A common test eye specialists conduct is to ask patients if their eyes are watering indoors and outdoors. If they water indoors, it’s highly suggestive of blockage. If it’s a duct blockage, you need surgery, but it depends on what layer or level the obstruction is at, as this determines how invasive it needs to be," she adds.

Dry Eyes: "If it’s blepharitis and associated dry eye—watery eye syndrome—the mainstay of treatment is ironically with lubricating eye drops, which can be a tricky concept for patients to get their heads around," says Dr Hawkes. "This is because the more lubricated the ocular surface is, the less likely you are to trigger the lacrimal gland to produce tears." Eye drops can help to rehydrate the eyes and prevent them from overcompensating with excessive tears.

Allergies: "If it’s allergy-related, it needs to be investigated and looked at for the cause. Either way, there are lots of different eye drop options available to the different causes that can all treat the condition efficiently," she says.

Can Makeup Make Watery Eyes Worse?

Depending on the cause of your watery eyes, you may find that makeup can exacerbate symptoms. "Blepharitis is the most common cause, which causes blockage of the meibomian glands, which are specialised glands in between the eyelashes, that secrete an oily layer of tear film," says Dr Hawkes. "They open on the waterline, so when you apply eyeliner or mascara, you’re irritating and directly blocking these glands," she says.

"Generally, I would avoid using eyeliner on the waterline and use products suitable for sensitive skin. Clinique has a brilliant 'eye safety promise’ as the products undergo rigorous testing on how they affect the ocular surface, which not many brands do," she says. "Be cautious with application and always remove eye makeup properly, especially if you have sensitive eyes."

How to Stop Watery Eyes From Ruining Makeup

Preventing watery eyes is the key step to minimise the risk of them ruining your eye makeup, and there are some preventative steps you can take to reduce watery eyes.

Cleanse the Eyes: "Much like a thorough skincare routine and ensuring your skin is in a healthy condition to create a good base for makeup, proper cleansing and care of the eye is key here," says Dr Hawkes. "Ophthalmologists call it ‘lid hygiene’, and this is a must, removing in between the lashes morning and evening to ensure glands don’t get blocked," she says. "Optase Life Sensitive Eye Makeup Remover (£10) is a great one. It has no harsh surfactants that affect the lipid layer on the eyes and does a great job at thoroughly removing makeup."

Practice Good Makeup Hygiene: "Having good makeup hygiene is vital. This includes removing makeup properly, cleaning your brushes, not keeping mascara for years or using expired or dried-out products," she says. Typically, you should replace your mascara every 3-6 months, cream eyeshadows every 12-18 months and powder eyeshadows every 1-2 years. As a general rule of thumb, cream formulations tend to expire more quickly, so go through your makeup bag and check the expiry dates on the products you're using. Additionally, ensure you're regularly washing your makeup brushes, too.

Opt for Cream Eye Makeup: Whilst Dr Hawkes doesn't flag any particular ingredients to avoid in your makeup, she does favour cream over powder formulas. "Specific ingredients in makeup aren’t as important; however, I always advise cream-based eyeshadows and makeup, because powder particles might go into the eye and cause irritation," she says.

Eye Makeup to Avoid: Having spoken to makeup artists over the years, I've learned that it's best to avoid eyeshadows with glitter or shimmer, as they can cause fallout and further irritate the eyes. As for your lashes, tubing mascaras are great as they're long-wearing, but remove easily from the eyes with warm water. Waterproof mascaras are great for avoiding smudges; however, they are more difficult to remove, so look for a good eye makeup remover to fully remove them.

Look for Eye-Safe Brands: "Additionally, I recommend products and brands that have been tested, much like Clinique’s eye safety promise," she says. Look for brands and products that have been ophthalmologist-tested to minimise eye irritation. Additionally, if you're a contact lens wearer, Dr Hawkes says that this can cause problems in itself, so be very mindful to take extra care of your eyes. She also recommends avoiding eyelash extensions if you're prone to issues.

If your watery eyes persist, always seek medical advice. "If you leave anything too long, it can affect your vision, so it’s best to be safe and cautious when it comes to your eyesight," says Dr Hawkes.

How to Fix Eye Makeup

Whether it's a windy day or there is a high pollen count on an important occasion, there are times when smudged eye makeup just needs to be fixed. I've lost count of the number of times I've had my makeup professionally done for a wedding or special occasion, only for it to be ruined by my watering eyes. Here are my tips for fixing it.

Dab, don't rub: Avoid rubbing the area and instead dab with a tissue to remove any excess tears. Often, the area can become dry, so you can rehydrate the area with a sensitive skin-friendly eye cream. This will help to hydrate and soothe any irritation around the eyes. For quick fixes, a Q-tip can help clean up smaller smudges, or you can use a small makeup brush to tidy up smudged eyeliner wings.

Fix the Base: If the situation requires you to fully reapply the makeup, there are a few things you can do. Applying a little concealer can help create a gripper canvas for eye makeup, and it can then be fixed with a pressed setting powder to create a waterproof barrier. Applying with a puff rather than a brush is best to avoid particles from going into the eyes. Tap onto the skin to set the concealer.

Apply Eye Makeup: Waterproof eyeliners or long-wearing eyeshadows (such as cream-to-powder formulas) will provide the best wear. You can also apply a small amount of powder eyeshadow over a cream formula to set your eye makeup. Just ensure the area is fully dry from tears; otherwise, the eye makeup won't adhere. Then, you can apply a setting spray to help lock it in (just keep your eyes closed when you're misting, of course!).

Carry the Essentials: Keep some of your core products with you in case it needs fixing or topping up throughout the day. Alongside your makeup, eye drops or mists can help refresh the eyes throughout the day, and sunglasses are useful for shielding eyes from gusts of wind, or even hiding smudged eye makeup as a last resort.

Best Products for Watery Eyes

I might be a makeup artist (and a beauty editor), but up until a few years ago, I could never get my eyeshadow to last longer than one hour, tops. I put it down to my oily eyelids (those of you with oilier complexions will relate) and assumed I had to say goodbye to eyeshadow altogether.

It’s not that I hadn’t heard of primers before (specifically, eyeshadow primers), it was that I was yet to come across one that actually worked. Whether I used a powder formula or eyeshadow stick over the top, my eye makeup still creased almost straight away.

However, when my friend wouldn’t stop raving about the Nars Pro Prime Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base, I thought, maybe I should give this product another go. So, when we were getting ready for a night out, I applied a generous helping of her go-to eyeshadow primer, and lo and behold, my eye makeup stayed in place after hours of bar hopping around Soho.

I wouldn’t go as far as to say it was a pivotal moment in my life, but it did feel good to know that I could actually wear eyeshadow again. So much so that over the past month, I’ve made it my mission to test more of the most popular eyeshadow primer formulas, and have created a concise edit of products that truly work. Intrigued to know more? Just keep on scrolling.

The Best Eyeshadow Primers, Tried & Tested

• Best Overall: Nars Pro Prime Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base, £26
• Best Hydrating Formula: Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Eye Primer, £23
• Best for Creasing: Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion, £24
• Best Lightweight Formula: Too Faced Shadow Insurance, £21
• Best for an Even Skin Tone: Nars Soft Matte Complete Concealer, £30

1. Nars Pro Prime Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base

I mean, I had to start with Nars, didn't I? This is, hands down, the best eyeshadow primer I have ever used. The doe-foot applicator makes it easy to swipe straight onto the lid, and although the product comes out white, it dries down to a clear matte finish, perfect for prepping your eyes for any number of colourful eyeshadow looks. If I'm doing a heavier makeup look or plan to be out all day (or night), this is the product I reach for, as it really keeps my eyeshadow in place. If you have oily eyelids, I couldn't recommend it enough.

2. Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Eye Primer

If your eyelids are on the drier side, but you still want to use a primer, I recommend this one from Milk Makeup. A blend of hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and aloe water, this formula is hydrating and creates a smooth, long-lasting base for eyeshadow. The clear formula and doe-foot applicator make it a dream to use, and if you've tried Milk Makeup primers before, then you'll know just how effective this is.

3. Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion

This primer is somewhat of an icon in the makeup world, but as someone who had never tried it before, I was skeptical about whether it would actually work. As it turns out, it really does. The packaging is a little smaller than others in this roundup, so it's a great one for travelling (there is also a smaller travel-size tube available). It also comes with a doe-foot applicator so you can swipe it straight onto the lid, and the formula is a light beige colour, but undetectable once dry. I loved testing this primer because it was great at minimising creasing throughout the day. I applied a nude powder eyeshadow on top, and it had barely creased by the time I got home from work. Very impressive considering my eyeshadow has normally creased by the time I walk through the office door in the morning.

4. Too Faced Shadow Insurance

If you're looking for a creamy yet lightweight option, Too Faced's Shadow Insurance has got you covered. It has this gorgeous, velvety texture that glides onto the skin, creating a smooth, long-lasting base for your eyeshadow. Plus, it smells incredible, like a summer holiday in a bottle. I'll definitely be reaching for it this season when the hot weather threatens to ruin my makeup.

5. Nars Soft Matte Complete Concealer

6. Makeup by Mario Master Mattes LW Cream Eyeshadow

Again, not technically an eyeshadow primer, but an incredible product to help your eye makeup last. I first started using this Makeup By Mario product as intended, a liquid eyeshadow, but quickly realised it also made a great base for powder eyeshadow products. It has a matte finish and a long-lasting formula, and comes in a range of neutral shades.

What Is an Eyeshadow Primer?

An eyeshadow primer is similar to a normal makeup primer, helping that gorgeous, glowy makeup look you've spent ages on last longer. However, as the name suggests, these primers are specifically designed for the eyelid area. "Eyeshadow primers are a necessary part of my makeup prep on set because they keep eye shadows in place," explains Sara Wren, director of artistry at Milk Makeup. "Eyeshadows often don’t show up, fade or can crease over the course of the day, but a good primer will prevent that from happening."

As Wren explained to me, most primers come in liquid or cream form, and some contain pigment to help even out the eyelid area. "My favourite eyeshadow primers are colourless—they won’t change the payoff of the product that I apply on top."

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products over the years—spanning skincare, makeup, hair and nails—and work closely with trusted experts including dermatologists, makeup artists and leading industry insiders to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

When it comes to award-show glamour, I drink up every detail of the looks that make our best dressed lists. Though every event plays host to a showstopping assortment of red carpet ensembles, from the stunning gowns to the trendsetting hairstyles, the stars save their best for the Oscars, and the 2026 show is shaping up to have some of the best beauty looks I've seen in a minute.

Don't get me wrong. I love a classic updo and perfectly manicured hands. However, the one thing that sets my soul on fire is red carpet makeup—so much so that I asked my fellow beauty editors to fan-cast our favorite nominees' makeup looks for the evening. The one thing we didn't see coming was the monochrome-makeup trend that suddenly yet swiftly took center stage, and I'm simply itching to re-create these looks myself. Below, see the matchy-matchy lip and eye moments from Jessie Buckley, Emma Stone, Renate Reinsve, and more that played oh so perfectly with their Oscar-worthy gowns.

Not to toot my own horn, but I did predict Buckley's red-lip look. The Best Actress nominee matched her scarlet lips to her two-toned Chanel gown, making this look an instant classic. I theorize that the vermillion accents could be a sweet nod to her character Agnes Shakespeare's signature red frock, but that's just me.

Wunmi Mosaku's deep-sea turquoise gown caught my eye immediately, but her shimmering shadow made me stay. The Sinners star matched her sparkling custom Louis Vuitton gown with a pop of reflective teal eye shadow on the inner corners of her eyes, which happens to be one of 2026's top red carpet trends, according to our senior beauty editor Jamie Schneider's robust reporting. If you want to replicate her exact look, pick up Louis Vuitton's La Beauté LV Ombres Eyeshadow Palette in Beige Memento and Force of Nature.

According to Chase Infiniti's makeup artist, Amber Dreadon, the actress's custom Louis Vuitton dress was the ultimate source of inspiration. Dreadon describes the look as "whimsical, light, and effortlessly youthful," according to a press release, and kept skin and subtle pops of color at the center. She used the LV Ombres Eyeshadow Palette in Cosmic Dreams to craft Infiniti's soft lilac eye before accenting her pillowy pout with the LV Rouge Satin Lipstick in Kiss the Sky.

Do my eyes deceive me, or did Emma Stone match her shimmering, floor-sweeping Louis Vuitton gown with a frosted eye? According to a press release, the star's gown was hand-embroidered—which, by my logic, requires a makeup look with the same painstaking detail. The Bugonia star wears the LV Ombres Eyeshadow Palette in Beige Memento, which features an icy ivory shadow that I'd bet my next paycheck she slathered all over the eye.

Sinners' Li Jun Li has been taking the 2026 award season by storm with her extravagant red carpet looks, though I'm particularly entranced by her matching red moment tonight. Perhaps inspired by the fiery aesthetic of her heavily nominated film, the actress tied in her red Gaurav Gupta dress with cherry-colored glam, including bright-red lips and berry-hued blush.

Renate Reinsve has been dominating award season in the style category, but my eyes were on her red lip (and sculptural hip-high slit) tonight. Perfectly matching her custom Louis Vuitton gown is her matte LV lipstick in orange-red Vuittamine, which I'm adding to my cart as we speak.

In my opinion, a good makeup look is all about enhancing your natural features, especially when it comes to eyes. Those with green eyes will love purple and plum eye shadow shades, whilst those with brown eyes will gravitate more towards bold blue and earthy green tones. However, if you have blue eyes, then brown eye shadow will be your new best friend. But what type of brown eye shadow should you be looking for?

As a beauty editor and makeup artist with blue eyes, I've tested hundreds of options over the years, from eye shadow palettes to eye shadow sticks, and I've created a concise edit of my go-to shades that always make my eyes pop. I also caught up with Bobbi Brown senior pro artist Zara Findlay to get her opinion on the best brown eye shadows for blue eyes, so keep scrolling for our tips, tricks and top picks.

Why Is Brown Eye Shadow a Good Choice for Blue Eyes?

"Brown eye shadow is a great choice for blue eyes because it enhances the natural contrast, helping the blue appear brighter and more defined," explains Findlay. "It’s also an incredibly versatile shade that works beautifully across different skin tones."

Which Brown Eye Shadows Should Someone With Blue Eyes Look For?

I think we can all agree that with so many brown options on the market, it can be hard to narrow them all down. However, Findlay has some tips. "To really make blue eyes stand out, I recommend browns with warm undertones, such as coppery browns or rich chocolate shades. These tones add warmth around the eye and help intensify the blue, making the colour pop."

Of course, once you've got the correct undertone, you'll also want to choose between powder, cream and liquid formulas. This all comes down to personal preference, but Findlay tells me that powder shadows tend to look softer and are easier to build, whilst cream formulas tend to deliver a stronger pigment and are quicker to apply.

I've been testing some of the best brown eye shadows for blue eyes below, so keep on scrolling to shop my favourites.

The Best Brown Eye Shadows for Blue Eyes

• Best Eye Shadow Overall: Merit Solo Shadow in Midcentury, £23
• Best Cream Eye Shadow: Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Cream Shadow Stick in Hazelnut, £30
• Best Liquid Eye Shadow: Armani Eye Tint in Cashew, £33
• Best Cool-Toned Eye Shadow: Urban Decay Naked 2 Palette, £30
• Best Eye Shadow Palette: Victoria Beckham Eye Wardrobe in Cocoa, £72

1. Merit Solo Shadow in Midcentury

This is the Merit Beauty eye shadow I reach for daily. I tend to go between two shades: Midcentury and Brun. Midcentury is a subtle, warm, everyday colour, whereas Brun is a little darker. If I'm doing an evening look, I'll use Brun in the crease of my eye for a little more definition, but you'll usually find me wearing Midcentury all over the lid. The creamy texture glides onto the eyelid and blends like a dream. Plus, you can build it up depending on your desired finish. It's a cream-to-powder formula, but if you have oily eyelids like me, I recommend using an eye shadow primer to help keep it in place.

2. Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Cream Shadow Stick in Hazelnut

3. Armani Eye Tint in Cashew

I'm a big fan of the Armani Eye Tints, and I recently got my hands on the shade Cashew, the perfect brown for everyday wear. I thought a liquid eye shadow would be my oily eyelids' worst nightmare, but this dries down to a natural finish and actually lasts surprisingly well. Don't get me wrong: I did experience a little bit of creasing after a while, but nowhere near as much as I expected. It's definitely a subtle brown, but I really like how it brings out the blue in my eyes (if I do say so myself).

4. Urban Decay Naked 2 Palette

5. Victoria Beckham Eye Wardrobe in Cocoa

Speaking of outstanding eye shadow palettes, I'd have to rate this Victoria Beckham Beauty one as my favourite. Not only does it look chic, but the selection of chocolate-brown shades is unmatched. A word of warning: these eyeshadows are so pigmented that a little goes a long way. The only downside is that because of this, I find I have to blend them quite quickly, but the result is always worth it.

6. Rimmel Wonder'Last Shadow Stick in 002 Choco Shimmer

7. Yves Saint Laurent Couture Mini Clutch in 710

How chic is this? If you like a bit of luxury, YSL won't let you down. This brown eye shadow clutch features three shimmery shades and one matte option, and the warm tones are ideal for blue eyes. It's the palette I reach for whenever I'm creating an evening makeup look. Similar to the Victoria Beckham Beauty palette, these shadows are very pigmented, so I recommend starting with a small amount and building each shade up as you go.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

When it comes to luxury makeup brands, I want products that I know I can trust. When you're spending a little bit more on foundation, concealer or even an eyeshadow palette, you want to know that it's going to be worth the cash. One thing I'm particularly interested in when shopping for new makeup is who is behind the brand itself. I personally love products that have been created by people in the industry whom I've looked up to for years, and these are often the products that become mainstays in my makeup bag for years to come. They just get it, you know?

So, when one of the most iconic makeup artists of all time launched her own brand back in 2019, you bet I was ready and waiting to get my hands on anything I could. Wondering who I could be talking about? None other than Lisa Eldridge. Yes, Eldridge has worked with some of the biggest models, photographers and beauty brands in the world, so she definitely knows a thing or two about creating a good makeup product.

Her eponymous beauty brand started as a range of lipsticks, but in recent years, the product offering has expanded to complexion products, eye makeup, tools and more. I thought it was about time that I put all of the bestsellers to the test to create a full makeup look. Keep on scrolling to see how I got on and to shop my top picks...

The Best Lisa Eldridge Makeup Products, Tried & Tested

1. Lisa Eldridge Seamless Skin Enhancing Tint

2. Lisa Eldridge Pinpoint Concealer

3. Lisa Eldridge Elevated Glow Highlighter

4. Lisa Eldridge Eyeshadow Palette

5. Lisa Eldridge Kitten Lash Mascara

6. Lisa Eldridge Sculpt and Shade Lip Pencil

7. Lisa Eldridge Baume Embrace Melting Lip Colour

One of the biggest beauty challenges I've had to overcome on my own personal makeup journey is figuring out the best eyeshadow for hooded eyes. As a beauty editor, one of the first lessons I ever learnt is that your eye shape will determine your entire approach to doing eyeshadow—or any eye makeup for hooded eyes, for that matter. I remember the first time I ever tried eyeliner in my teens. I couldn't understand why an eyeliner wing looked totally crisp and seamless on my friend's eyes, but on mine, it looked a bit off.

After watching multiple YouTube makeup tutorials and poring over makeup-artist books like Kevyn Aucoin's Making Faces, I realised that I have hooded eyes. And, like every eye shape, they require a different approach when it comes to eye makeup, but especially with eyeshadow application. Eye makeup for eye shapes can vary a lot.

If you've landed here, the chances are you're also looking for some tips on how to do eyeshadow for hooded eyes. So, I enlisted the help of one of the world's most iconic makeup artists, Charlotte Tilbury MBE, to personally talk me through all the tips, tricks and mistakes to avoid when doing eyeshadow for hooded eyes. But firstly, what are hooded eyes, and how do you know if you have them?

What Are Hooded Eyes?

Hooded eyes are an eye shape where the skin of your upper lid or brow bone covers the natural crease of your eyes. "People with hooded eyes often have a smaller visible eyelid when looking straight on, meaning some of the eyeshadow you apply can get hidden," explains Tilbury. If you've ever artfully applied eyeshadow all over your lid, only to relax your eyelids and eyebrows and look straight in the mirror and see it totally disappear, the chances are you may have hooded eyes, too.

Hooded eyes are often down to genetics and heritage, but our eyes can also become more hooded with time as our eye area matures. They can also vary in how hooded they are (for example, mine are more hooded towards the middle and outside corners of my eyes, but my lid is more visible towards the inside corners). Like other eye shapes, hooded eyes are really beautiful and striking, with many celebrities, actresses and models, such as Zendaya and Adriana Lima, having naturally hooded eyes.

Thankfully, there are plenty of tips, tricks and techniques you can use when applying eyeshadow on hooded eyes to enhance your eye shape. "Different eyeshadow styles are flattering on different eye shapes, so knowing your eye shape helps you to create easy, effortless eye looks that enhance and illuminate the look of your natural features," says Tilbury. Scroll on ahead for the expert-approved tips for applying eyeshadow on hooded eye shapes.

How to Apply Eye Shadow on Hooded Eyes

1. Choose Matte Eyeshadows

For hooded eyes, matte eyeshadows are your friend, Tilbury tells me. Especially neutral tones of beiges and browns, which will add natural definition to your eyes while making them look bigger. Anything too shimmery or glitzy on your lids can sometimes look too heavy. To start, you'll want to choose an eyeshadow palette for the most versatility, that's a similar colour to your skin tone, and apply it over your lid as a base to give any other products you're applying on top "grip".

2. Define the Crease

Next, you want to define the crease of your eyes. "People with hooded eyes often have a smaller visible eyelid when looking straight on, meaning some of the eyeshadow you apply can get hidden, so the secret is always up-and-out," says Tilbury. "My tip is to apply eyeshadow a little past the eyelid, up into and past the crease, then blend upwards and outwards," she says, which may mean you'll be applying it above your natural crease or even onto your brow bone. It might feel a bit unnatural at first, but this means even when your eyes are resting, you can still see the eyeshadow, and it creates a wide-eyed effect.

"Using my Eye Blender Brush (£26), apply your eyeshadow from side to side on the lid like a windscreen wiper," says Tilbury, "and blend it up and out past the eyelid for that lifted effect." This helps to define the crease and frame your eyes. Next, she recommends balancing the look by applying a little eyeshadow along the bottom lid too. "Remember it is important to not be heavy-handed. Using the same shade you have applied on your upper eyelid, use my Eye Smudger Brush (£26) to bring the colour along your lower lash line, and don’t forget to blend."

3. Tilt Your Head as You Apply

"When applying eyeshadow to your eyelids, lift your chin up and look down into your mirror so you can see your full eyelid, and if you are working on the bottom of your eyes, tilt your chin down," says Tilbury. "This technique will help you apply eyeshadow with precision on the largest surface area of your eyes without smudging!" Additionally, try to avoid raising your brows too much as you apply and check in on how it looks as your eyes are rested, as this is what it will look like most of the time. "No matter what shape of eye you have, you always want to draw the product up and out to create that illusion of brighter, bigger eyes," she says.

4. Accentuate the Inner Corners

This is a classic red carpet trick to open up the eyes. "To make hooded eyes look instantly bigger and brighter, apply the lightest shade in one of my Palettes of Beautifying Eye Trends (£49) to the inner corners of your eyes, dotting with my Eye Smudger brush and moving in a tiny ‘C’ motion," says Tilbury. "This is such a quick and easy way to make hooded eyes pop."

What Eye Shadow Looks Best for Hooded Eyes?

So, you're wondering what eye shadow looks suit hooded eyes best. Uncover the exact makeup styles and the products you can use to achieve them yourself, ahead.

1. Smokey Peach

I love this look on Bella Hadid, as you can see so many hooded eye makeup tips at play. You can see that her makeup artist has taken a slightly darker eyeshadow colour above her natural crease, which opens up the eyes, as well as tight-lining the upper lashes which defines the eyes without looking too much.

2. Flushed Metallic

Note the neutral tones and inner corner highlight that make Zendaya's hooded eyes smoulder.

3. Diffused Nude

How pretty is Selena Gomez's softly diffused eyeshadow wing?

4. Feathered Lashes

Just a touch of tight-lining and mascara is enough to subtly define hooded eyes.

5. Soft Hollywood Glamour

How beautiful is this hooded eyeshadow look on Jennifer Lawrence?

6. Elongated Wing

Chanel Iman proves you can still wear winged liner—just wing it out lower for a smooth line.

The Best Eye Shadow Products for Hooded Eyes

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

To me, a good nude eyeshadow palette is the beauty equivalent of the perfect camel knit from Toteme or The Row—it's completely timeless, an absolute staple and compliments any look. So, you can see why pretty much every makeup artist has one in their kit.

Whether you're wanting to create one of this year's biggest makeup trends, or simply want to add a little bit of oomph to your eye makeup look, the right palette will cover your every need far more effectively than a single eyeshadow stick might. But how do you go about choosing the best one? That's where we come in.

Team Who What Wear UK have been busy putting some of the most popular nude eyeshadow palettes to the test to see which ones live up to expectations. Not only that, but I've taken it upon myself to reach out to the experts to find out how to create the perfect nude eyeshadow look. So, what are you waiting for? Keep on scrolling for the info...

What Colours to Look for in a Nude Eyeshadow Palette

First things first, it's important to think about what neutral colours you want in your eyeshadow palette. "Nude shadows need to compliment your individual skin tone," explains Dominic Skinner, director of makeup artistry at M.A.C. "If you have a more rosy or rich undertone, then look for a palette that has warm shades like mahogany, corals, and coppers. Whereas if you have a golden or caramel undertone then a palette with more sandy and ochre shades would be better."

Do Nude Eyeshadows Suit All Skin Tones?

The great thing about nude eyeshadows is that they suit everyone. "Nude shadows suit all skin tones," says Skinner. "This is because they compliment the wearer's skin tones to enhance the natural features."

Team Who What Wear UK have been busy putting the best nude eyeshadow palettes to the test.

How to Take a Nude Eyeshadow Look From Day to Night

Once you have your perfect nude eyeshadow palette, you might be curious on how to take your eye makeup look from day to night. "Nude eyeshadow looks are always so flattering and easily adaptable, so taking your nude eye look from day to night is simple" says Skinner. "I like to start by taking a slightly deeper shade than what I used originally, and lightly sweep it around the lash line. Then, with an angled brush, work a darker shade along the upper lash line and slightly extend it out like an eyeliner. The best thing is, by using powder, it doesn’t have to be precise so you can do it in a rush or on the go."

To get the most from your eye look, utilise the best eyeshadow primers for longevity and optimum pigment pay off, and finish up with a few coats of a great mascara.

The Best Nude Eyeshadow Palettes, Tried & Tested by Editors

• Best nude eyeshadow palette overall: M.A.C Connect In Colour Unfiltered Nudes
• Best warm-toned nude eyeshadow palette: Dior Backstage Eye Palette Warm Neutrals
• Best cool-toned nude eyeshadow palette: Makeup By Mario Master Mattes® The Neutrals Eyeshadow
• Best nude eyeshadow palette for a range of different looks: Morphe 35O Supernatural Glow Artistry Palette

1. M.A.C Connect In Colour Unfiltered Nudes

2. Dior Backstage Eye Palette Warm Neutrals

3. Urban Decay Naked Basics 2 Palette

4. Morphe 35O Supernatural Glow Artistry Palette

5. Fenty Beauty Snap Shadows Deep Neutrals

6. Charlotte Tilbury Super Nudes Easy Eye Palette

7. Makeup By Mario Master Mattes® The Neutrals Eyeshadow

If foundation and mascara are the makeup equivalents of your wardrobe staples, then wearing eye shadow is like reaching for your clutch bag or most eye-catching pair of heels. You may not wear it on a regular basis, but it's there if you need to put in some extra effort and add interest to your look. But an eyeshadow stick? Well, that's a different story.

I've never been a dedicated daily eye shadow wearer, so supersized eye shadow palettes have never really appealed to me. Indeed, when I have owned them, I've found myself reaching for the same few shades again and again. Likewise, the idea of blending multiple different shades across my eyelid feels far too overwhelming. Truthfully, I want easy eye shadow looks only. When it comes to applying eye shadow, I'm very much a one wash of colour kind of person, which is why eye shadow sticks are my go-to eye makeup product of choice.

While I don't use them everyday, a good eye shadow stick is an essential tool in my makeup bag for occasions when I want to highlight or define my eyes. Their ease of use lends them well to my preferred one-wash look over my lids, but of course, two or three can be used in combination if you do wish to experiment with a more dramatic or creative look, like a smokey eye or cut crease. If, like me, you're often left feeling overwhelmed on how to apply eye shadow, a stick formula helps take away a lot of that confusion—just scribble on and smudge.

The best ones are richly pigmented and creamy, which makes them easy to blend and long-lasting, with minimal fallout throughout the day. But with hundreds of options out there in an array of shimmers, mattes, metallics, and everything in between, it isn't always easy what’s actually worth buying.

Below I've compiled an edit of my favourite eye shadow sticks, tried and tested.

Shop the Best Eye Shadow Sticks:

1. Glossier Shadow Stick
2. Laura Mercier Caviar Stick Eye Shadow
3. Victoria Beckham EyeWear Eyeshadow Stick
4. Beauty Pie Wondercolour Longer Cream Eyeshadow Stick
5. Rare Beauty All of the Above Weightless Eyeshadow Stick
6. Vieve Eye Wand
7. By Terry Ombre Blackstar
8. E.lf. No Budge Shadow Stick
9. Nars Total Seduction Eyeshadow Stick
10. Kiko Milano Long Lasting Eyeshadow Stick
11. Byredo Colour Stick
12. Charlotte Tilbury Colour Chameleon Eyeshadow Pencil
13. Chanel Stylo Ombre Et Contour Eyeshadow Liner
14. About-Face Shadowstick

1. Glossier Shadow Stick

2. Laura Mercier Caviar Stick Eye Shadow

3. Victoria Beckham EyeWear Eyeshadow Stick

4. Beauty Pie Wondercolour Longer Cream Eyeshadow Stick

5. Rare Beauty All of the Above Weightless Eyeshadow Stick

6. Vieve Eye Wand

7. By Terry Ombré Blackstar

8. E.l.f. No Budge Shadow Stick

9. Nars Total Seduction Eyeshadow Stick

10. Kiko Milano Long Lasting Eyeshadow Stick

11. Byredo Colour Stick

12. Chanel Stylo Ombre Et Contour Eyeshadow Liner

13. About-Face Shadow Stick

Opening Image: @spicy.mayo

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

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products over the years—spanning skincare, makeup, hair and nails—and work closely with trusted experts including dermatologists, makeup artists and leading industry insiders to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

Yes I'm a beauty editor, but I'm definitely not a pro when it comes to makeup. Don't get me wrong, I know everything there is to know about all of the best makeup brands, and I'm constantly talking to makeup artists to find out their biggest tips and tricks, but when it comes to actually putting makeup on my face, I still think of myself as a novice.

I think it's because I don't actually like to wear a lot of makeup. I always feel a little uncomfortable when I have too many products on my face, and I find myself counting down the seconds until I can wash it all off at the end of the day. Not only that, but I simply don't have the time to learn how to do these incredibly intricate makeup looks. I like to be able to do my entire routine in under ten minutes, and I only want to use easy products that I can swipe on and go.

Enter, the Trinny London Eye2Eye cream eyeshadow. I'm going to be honest, I've not tried loads of products from this brand, but after hearing everyone raving about this easy-to-use eye enhancer, I was intrigued. So, I did what any good journalist would do, and decided to put the product to the test straight away. Keep on scrolling for my full review...

Trinny London Cream Eyeshadow Review

The Formula

Ok, let's talk a little bit about the formula. As mentioned, this is a cream eyeshadow, so it has a super soft, moisturising texture that practically glides onto the lids. I don't know about you, but when trying cream eyeshadows in the past, I've often found them a little thick and hard to blend, but this is a super sheer, almost velvety formula that can be built up depending on your desired finish.

The Shades

Junior beauty editor, Grace Lindsay, testing the Trinny London Cream Eyeshadow in "Passion".

There are a total of 25 shades to choose from, ranging from subtle nudes to dark olives and deep burgundy hues. I tend to switch between "Virtue", a soft champagne that works well for every day, and "Passion", a shimmery plum that is perfect for taking your makeup up a notch at this time of year.

The Application

Junior beauty editor, Grace Lindsay, applying the Trinny London Cream Eyeshadow in "Passion".

The application is what I really want to talk about. The brand says that you can apply the product with your ring finger or an eyeshadow brush, but I prefer to work with my fingers when using cream products as I find that they go on a lot smoother this way. As you can see above, all you have to do is get a little bit of product onto your ring finger, dab it onto your lid to blend and then you're good to go. It is that easy. I never used to apply eyeshadow as I found it such a faff, but thanks to this product, my makeup looks complete in about five seconds flat.

The Results

Junior beauty editor, Grace Lindsay, wearing the Trinny London Cream Eyeshadow in "Passion".

So, how did this product last throughout the day? As someone with oily eyelids, I was sceptical. However, after pairing this with my favourite eyeshadow primer, I was pleasantly surprised by how long it lasted. Don't get me wrong, by the end of the day there was definitely some creasing, but all I had to do was grab the small pot from my handbag and apply a touch more product for it to look as good as it did first thing in the morning. Yep, this eyeshadow has me hooked.

Pros: Quick and easy to apply, creamy formula blends nicely, buildable colour and comes in a range of shades

Cons: Can crease throughout the day

Shop the Trinny London Cream Eyeshadow

Shop More Game-Changing Cream Eyeshadows

Who doesn't love a bit of glittery eyeshadow at this time of year? It's such an easy way to transition your winter makeup look from day to night, and is perfect for any festive parties coming up. That being said, I feel like glitter eyeshadow formulas get a bit of a bad rep. People often tell me that they avoid using them as they can be messy, hard to apply and don't give them the finish that they are after (i.e. clumps of glitter on their eyelids instead of a smooth, sparkling look).

However, I'm here to tell you that this doesn't need to be the case. As a beauty editor who has tested hundreds of glitter eyeshadows over the years, I can confirm that these formulas have come a long way. There are so many easy-to-use eyeshadows out there from high end brands such as Armani to high street favourites such as Elf. Not only do these eyeshadows glide on, but they give that dazzling finish that makes it look as if you've spent hours in the makeup chair.

Junior beauty editor, Grace Lindsay, has tested hundreds of glitter eyeshadows over the years.

Not convinced? Below I've rounded up some of my favourite glitter eyeshadows that will be sure to take your Christmas makeup look to the next level. Plus, I've even included my top tips and tricks to help your eye makeup last all night. Just keep on scrolling...

13 of the Best Glitter Eyeshadows for Hypnotic Makeup Looks

Junior beauty editor, Grace Lindsay, wearing Victoria Beckham Beauty's glitter eyeshadow.

Best Powder Glitter Eyeshadows

1. Victoria Beckham Beauty Lid Lustre

2. Charlotte Tilbury Luxury Palette - Pillow Talk

3. MAC Pop Dazzleshadow Eye Shadow

4. Pat McGrath Labs Mothership XI: Sunlit Seduction

5. Urban Decay 24/7 Mono Moondust Eyeshadow

6. NARS Afterglow Irresistible Eyeshadow Palette

7. Danessa Myricks Beauty Infinite Chrome Flakes

8. Anastasia Beverly Hills Mini Sugar Palette

Best Liquid and Cream Glitter Eyeshadows

9. Armani Eye Tint

10. Beauty Pie Wondercolour Longwear Cream Eyeshadow Stick

11. R.E.M. Beauty Midnight Shadows Lustrous Liquid Eyeshadow

12. Hourglass Scattered Light Glitter Eyeshadow Smoke

13. E.l.f. Cosmetics Duochrome Liquid Eyeshadow

How to Apply Glitter Eyeshadow

As you can see above, there are lots of different ways to apply glitter eyeshadow. In my experience, I find that finely pressed powders work best when applied with the fingertips, before going in with a brush to blend. Liquid eyeshadows often come with their own applicator so you can swipe these straight onto the lid, making the whole process a lot easier.

In order to make your eyeshadow last, many experts recommend using a primer beforehand. "There can be a large amount of fallout involved with both shimmery eyeshadow and glitter itself," says Leandra Kis, makeup artist at Beam.  "A good primer is a must as this will ensure that the product has something to adhere to. The best way to apply shimmery eyeshadow is to start by placing the product on the centre of the lid and then gently pat it to the outer edges so some of the product gets deposited there."

How to Choose the Best Glitter Eyeshadow for You

Choosing the best glitter eyeshadow all depends on personal preference, but something I always advise keeping in mind is what skin type you have. Those of you with oily skin might find that powder eyeshadows last a lot longer, while those of you with dry skin might favour a liquid formula as they can be easier to blend. As someone with combination skin, I actually like to use a mix. I find that starting with a cream eyeshadow base and applying a powder on top is the best way to get a statement finish that lasts all night.

Opening Image: @sarah_novio

Welcome to Who What Wear UK's Next in Beauty Awards 2024. Here, we are crowning and celebrating the very best in beauty, from game-changing industry innovators to the tried-and-tested classics that remain mainstays in our bathroom cabinets and makeup bags. To help us find the worthy winners, we called upon our esteemed panel of industry experts, hard-to-please editors and in-the-know influencers, who put each and every product to the test. We enlisted our judges to document and share their testing for every product they tried, so you can see all the winners in action—as well as those very important before-and-after results. After much testing, swatching and reviewing, the results are in. Join us in celebrating the best makeup products of 2024.

Who What Wear UK Next in Beauty Awards 2024: Best Makeup Products 

A good primer is a true workhorse in our makeup routines, not only to ensure your base applies flawlessly but that it goes the distance throughout the day too. Dior's Forever Star Filter impressed our judges with its glowy makeup-skincare hybrid formula, which can be used in multiple ways—it's truly a multifunctional addition to your makeup bag that goes beyond just a good primer.

It can be worn alone on bare skin to give sheer coverage and a healthy glow (perfect for off-duty days), underneath makeup to add radiance and a filter-like blur to your complexion, or even dotted on top of makeup to illuminate the cheekbones. Dior has managed to bottle a lit-from-within, blurring glow that we now can't live without.

"I loved this product! I wore it under foundation and it made me look as if I was wearing a filter in real life," says junior beauty editor Grace Lindsay. "It added a natural glow to the skin and helped to blur any imperfections. I also like that you can use it in multiple ways, like as a highlighter," she says.

Shop the Winner:

Take a peek inside any beauty editor's makeup bag, and you'll likely find Merit's The Minimalist Perfecting Complexion Stick. Uniquely, this base product is neither marketed strictly as a concealer nor a foundation. It elegantly toes the line between the two, offering the targeted precision of a concealing stick which is also designed to be quickly scribbled all over the face for light to medium coverage. Think of it as a concealing ball-point pen to instantly fix your complexion on the go. The creamy formula melts into the skin to deliver a skin-like matte finish that effortlessly conceals redness, dark circles and blemishes with ease, all whilst feeling weightless.

"I like the idea and functionality of this product. It’s lightweight, brightening and easy to apply, making it perfect for on-the-go use," says makeup artist Zakiyah Shani. "The formula blends effortlessly into the skin and feels great for everyday wear. Overall, it is a great multi-purpose product and I would recommend it for its ease of use," she says.

It's also become a mainstay in copy editor Georgia Seago's makeup bag. "This is my new favourite foundation, except it doesn’t feel like a foundation, which I love," she says. "I wouldn’t normally choose a stick foundation because I’d assume it would be thick, heavy and cakey, but this is none of that. It’s light, creamy, super-easy to blend with a buffing brush and wears really nicely throughout the day," she says.

"Extra marks for the near-perfect shade match thanks to the very clever shade finder on the Merit site. It lets you select your shade in another brand’s foundation that you've previously used and gives you the closet Minimalist Complexion Stick match."

Shop the Winner:

Finding your soulmate concealer can prove tricky, but MAC's Studio Radiance 24HR Luminous Lift Concealer scored top marks amongst our esteemed judges, who applauded the expansive range of 44 shades, meaning so many people can enjoy this game-changing product. Living up to its name, it features a radiant finish to illuminate your complexion with a creamy texture which melts into the skin—zero cakeyness here.

The formula is versatile enough to conceal dark circles as well as highlight for a sculpting effect that actually lasts throughout the day with minimal creasing. What's more, the formula boasts a number of skincare ingredients such as hydrating hyaluronic acid, oil-controlling niacinamide and brightening vitamin C.

"I love the choice of shades, allowing everyone to try the range," says makeup artist and brand founder Ruby Hammer MBE. "The formulation goes on very easily and blends, leaving blemishes concealed beautifully."

It also received high praise from our deputy editor Maxine Eggenberger. "The formula itself is lightweight and does have a radiant-like quality, so it lives up to the promises on the bottle," she says. "It doesn’t crease throughout the day, unlike so many other creamy concealers. I tried it under one of my eyes the day after I had very interrupted sleep to see the difference it made, and my husband said, 'Why does one eye look awake and the other looks like it needs to go back to bed?'. It’s hydrating too—again, unlike some other concealers."

Shop the Winner:

Lottie London's Hot Glaze Bronzing Serum Drops caused quite the stir in the Who What Wear UK office—these instant bronzing drops rival ones that are four times the price and left our testers with a natural glow that doesn't break the bank. These serum drops can be worn on bare skin, mixed into moisturiser or foundation or applied over makeup as a bronzer to warm up the skin. You can even mix them with your body moisturiser for an instant glow on limbs or your décolletage. They're virtually foolproof thanks to the sheer formula, which adds a subtle glow that can be built up for a deeper payoff.

"I love this product, and it’s affordable, which makes it even better," says senior fashion and beauty editor for branded content, Rebecca Rhys-Evans. "I’m a serial fake tanner, and when I’ve used expensive gradual tanning drops before, I’ve often woken up to orange patches which you aren't easily removed. This product eliminates that issue. I love the idea of bronzing drops that are immediate, as you can remove any mistakes and don’t have to remember to use it in advance," she says.

"It also has a nice glowy undertone, isn’t orange and blends really well over the jaw and nose, where this kind of product can often stick. You can also use it with a brush, your fingers or a sponge—it’s so easy to use."

Shop the Winner:

Rhode's Pocket Blush was one of the most anticipated launches of the year, and it scored top marks amongst our expert makeup judges and blush-obsessed editors. From the pocket-sized packaging that's easy to throw in your bag to the satin formulas that glide onto the skin and melt in effortlessly, there was nothing our judges didn't love about these effortlessly easy-to-use formulas. They're also versatile enough to be patted onto cheeks without the need for a brush as well as tapped into the lips for a monochromatic makeup look.

"I love the satin texture of these blushes, and the colours are great too," says makeup artist Anna Payne. "The stick formula is perfect for throwing in your bag for on-the-go touch-ups."

For the cream blush fans on the Who What Wear UK team, Rhode's Pocket Blush scored top marks across the board. "I really loved testing these blushers," says beauty editor Eleanor Vousden. "The formula is creamy and results in a satin finish on the skin which isn’t overly dewy nor matte—it's perfect. The blush lasted really well throughout the day, and I love the stick formula which is easy to pat into cheeks and lips on the go," she says. "The packaging is also very cute and travel-friendly. You only need a tiny amount, so this will last for ages and makes the price very reasonable, in my opinion."

Shop the Winner:

We had to add a highly commended award for Ateh Jewel's Blush Of Dreams, which has been designed to work across all skin tones. The brand champions inclusivity, and our judges loved these creamy blushes which come in beautiful shades and not only pack a pigment punch but stay put throughout the day, looking just as vibrant hours later.

"I love this blusher," says makeup artist Emily Wood. "It creates the sweetest flush and is really blendable and hydrating. A little goes a long way, and although it's cream-based, the flush stays on," she says.

"At last! A blush designed with darker skin tones in mind," says fashion editor Remy Farrell. "Not only is this creamy, blendable and long-lasting, the highly pigmented shade sits perfectly on top of foundation or clean skin for a warm and vibrant pop of colour," she says. "Unlike some formulas that can be a little greasy and reduce to a shine, this holds a matte finish that stands up to daily wear without clogging pores and feeling too heavy."

Shop the Winner:

We're makeup minimalists here at Who What Wear UK, and we love a hardworking hybrid product that serves multiple purposes. This is why Merit's Flush Balm is our very deserving winner in this category. Collectively loved by our expert judges and internal editorial team, we could talk at length about how much we love this product—seriously.

The domed-shaped applicator makes it easy to apply to cheeks for a healthy pop of colour with a dewy finish, but it also serves just as well as a lip tint, delivering a hydrated wash of colour. Some of our editors also use it as an eye shadow to create a monochrome look. Thanks to its compact size, you'll never find us without at least one in our bags—the extensive shade range makes it hard to pick a favourite.

"I love these blushers. The colours are perfect for that flushed look, the application is so easy and the product is buildable," says makeup artist Zoe Taylor.

"Merit’s Flush Balms are brilliant for several reasons," says Vousden. "Firstly, the innovative domed shape makes it so easy to apply onto cheeks without brushes—it can simply be patted in with the fingertips. I like that the pigment isn’t too heavy, so it delivers a subtle veil of dewy colour that is easily blendable to look like a natural blush. That being said, it can be layered for more intensity," she says.

Shop the Winner:

For our conscious makeup choice, Saie delivered with its cruelty-free, gluten-free, non-comedogenic and vegan formula. Plus, our judges acknowledged its efforts towards The Saie Climate Initiative. This campaign pledges to remove and repurpose five million pounds of global plastic waste in collaboration with rePurpose. Its second pledge is eliminating and off-setting carbon emissions from its supply chain by 2039, and lastly, the brand has formed an all-female board with experts from across the beauty industry to support initiatives such as rePurpose, which helps social mobility for women by creating more income, social security and health insurance. As for Saie's products, our judges couldn't get enough of the Glowy Super Gel.

"This is stunning on its own for a lit-from-within glow or on top of makeup as a highlighter for a refreshed look," says skincare expert Janet Adetunji. "The shade Roseglow is so beautiful and iridescent," she says.

"Roseglow has a subtle pinky tint. I used it both over my SPF and on top of my makeup where I would usually apply highlighter. It does give a nice radiance and I appreciate that it’s non-greasy and blends well," says Seago.

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Huda's Easy Bake Loose Baking & Setting Powder was one of our most highly-scored products, earning a permanent spot in our testing panel's makeup bags. Coming in a range of shades designed to blur, set and brighten all skin tones, the finely milled powder matttifies the skin with a subtly luminous finish so that your makeup never looks flat. It was inspired by founder Huda Kattan's preferred technique of baking to set makeup, and it ensures your makeup stays in place all day whilst eliminating shine.

"This is a stunning silky baking powder that leaves an airbrush-like finish on the skin," says makeup artist Min Sandhu. "It is finely milled, lightweight and blends seamlessly, giving a blurring effect. The texture and this powder being specifically designed for an easy bake make this formula innovative," she says.

It also won over Who What Wear UK's endorsement sales director Efi Mandrides. "This is a nice, finely milled powder so you can bake without it being too heavy. It worked well with a damp sponge since it was so fine, but it is equally easy to achieve a matte finish with a brush— I would definitely use this powder again and recommend it," she says.

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If you can't live without lashes, you need to try Bonded's No Glue Lashes, which were a hit with our judging panel, scoring ten out of ten across the board. Offering up to five days of wear, these individual lash clusters use bonding technology rather than glue, which is far gentler on your natural lashes. They come in a range of lengths and styles to suit every eye shape and preference, from a natural flutter to volumised lashes. Our judges noted how well these lashes lasted, as well as how quick and easy they were to apply.

"I would recommend these as I am yet to find a lash glue that I love and I don't really like the faff of glueing lashes. These are quick and easy and the style I received was flattering," says makeup artist Michelle Leandra. "They are very sticky which means they can be fiddly at first, but following the instructions really helps, and this obviously helps with the longevity," she says.

"Easy to apply, long-lasting, natural-looking, not too heavy— I love them," says Mandrides. "The lasting power is amazing, and these are great for older eyes too. I used them on a bride who cried happy tears and they didn't budge," she says.

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This was a tough category to judge. With so many lipsticks, balms, glosses and oils launching this year, it took a standout formula to win this award. Summer Fridays impressed our judges so much with its Dream Lip Oil that several of us immediately went out and bought additional shades. The silky oil formula not only feels luxurious on the lips (that will be the nine types of plant oils in this nourishing formula), but it actually lasts for many hours in comparison to other lip oils that seem to disappear into thin air. Our judges also loved the chic packaging and flattering shades that work across skin tones. This quite possibly could be the best lip oil ever created.

It totally won over our deputy editor, Maxine Eggenberger. "I'm a big fan of lip products, and over the past year, I’ve tried lots of oils in search of the perfect one. This is it," she says. "Summer Fridays has managed to create an oil that’s nourishing (the vitamin E made quick work of my typically dry, chapped lips with just a couple of wears), glossy, non-sticky, has a great colour payoff and lasts.

"Every other lip oil I own seems to evaporate after no time at all, but not Dream Lip Oil—I could still feel and see it on my lips long after application. I’m so impressed with this product that, after a week of wear, I decided to buy one for a friend, treating myself to another shade at the same time! So, when you ask, 'Would you buy this product again?', I already have."

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Guerlain's impossibly chic lipstick and case required a special mention, both as a brilliant lipstick formula and an objet d'art. The lipstick case comes in several beautiful patterns to meet any style or aesthetic, and the innovative design features a mirror that pops up as you open the case to touch up your lipstick—a real conversation starter. It can also be engraved, making it a beautiful keepsake to gift or to treasure. Choose from a variety of classy shades in satin and velvet finishes, and you have your very own signature lipstick.

"The lipstick offers rich, luxurious colour with a smooth, hydrating formula that feels comfortable on the lips," says makeup artist Aarti Pal. "The customisable case adds a bit of elegance and allows for a personal touch, making it a beautiful accessory as well as a high-quality lipstick," she says. "It's ideal for those who appreciate both style and substance in their makeup."

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If brows frame the face, then Blink Brow Bar's Ultimate Brow Arch Definer is the master architect behind naturally sculpted arches. Featuring an angled nib, it effortlessly fills in sparse areas, adding natural definition that is easy to diffuse thanks to the innovative tiny oval kabuki brush on the other end, leaving a soft finish. Our judges also rated the shade range, which spans from light blonde to a deep brown-black.

"I loved the brush and the angled brow pencil, and the range of shades is perfect for everyone," says Hammer.

"I really like the oval kabuki brush on the Blink Brow Bar Ultimate Brow Arch Definer; it tamed my rather unruly eyebrows," says video editor Emily Shannon. "I have quite defined eyebrows, so I only needed a light application of the pencil, but I found it easy to use, even for someone inexperienced with brow products. I would recommend this if you want fuller, more defined-looking eyebrows, as well as a tidy tool," she says.

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It's no secret that there are hundreds of mascaras to choose from. But, out of every single one we tested, L'Oréal Paris' Volume Million Lashes Panorama Mascara came out on top amongst our judges, who loved the flexible comb brush that captures every single lash for a fanned-out effect. It delivers a great amount of volume, curl and length without flaking, drooping or smudging throughout the day. All that for £13? Consider us sold.

"This is a great affordable mascara for all lashes. It’s super volumising and lengthening, creating a fanned-out, false-lash effect that lasts all day," says Taylor.

"I’ll admit it: I’m a mascara snob, so it’s been a long time since I used a cheaper lash product. However, the formula and brush are up there with the luxury counterparts I've tried," says Eggenberger. "One of the selling points of this mascara is the multi-level bristle brush technology, which is supposed to catch every lash from corner to corner and coat them all evenly. It does just that!

"The length of my lashes was noticeably much longer than usual, with a subtle curl that made for a natural-looking finish," she says. "The brush distributes the perfect amount of product every time; a thin layer which you could absolutely build for more drama. For me, one coat was enough to give me the my-lashes-but-(much, much)better look I’ve been after for years. Unlike other mascaras I’ve tried, my lashes didn’t drop after a few hours of wear, and crumbling and smudging just wasn’t a thing," she adds.

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It's often difficult to find a good neutral eyeshadow palette that delivers on every single shade (there's inevitably a handful of colours that go untouched). However, our judges loved the timelessness and versatility of the shades in the Makeup By Mario Master Mattes Eyeshadow Palette. Featuring all matte shadows in flattering beiges and brown tones, there is something for everyone in this palette, and it will see you through elegant daytime eye shadow looks to dramatic smokey eyes.

"I would recommend the Makeup by Mario Master Mattes Eyeshadow Palette," says Pal. "It offers a versatile range of matte shades that are highly pigmented and blendable, making it perfect for creating both subtle and dramatic looks. The neutral tones are universally flattering and ideal for everyday wear," she says. "It’s a must-have for anyone who loves matte eye shadows and values high-quality, professional-grade products."

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We demand that our makeup work as hard as our skincare, so finding a good hybrid that combines the benefits of both is always high on our judges' agenda. Isle of Paradise's Sunny Serum certainly made our days brighter, with its instant bronzing serum formula that lent our judges' complexions a healthy-looking glow. We love that this lightweight serum is packed with skincare ingredients like niacinamide, squalane and jojoba oil, which nourish the skin whilst delivering an instant glow.

"Love, love, love," says Seago. "I mix half a pump of this with my SPF on no-makeup days and my skin looks so good. It’s non-streaky, rubs in really well with fingers, doesn’t pill and really just lights up your face," she says. "It looks quite alarming when you pump it out because the gel is pretty dark, but you can customise the intensity of the colour depending on how much you use and whether you mix it with another product or use it solo. Oh, and there’s no shimmer—just dewy, glowy goodness."

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With an extensive 51 shades, we applaud Haus Labs for its excellent range of foundation colours, which also caters to warm, cool and neutral undertones whilst spanning an impressive breadth of shades, from deep to fair. Delivering medium coverage, this hard-working foundation effortlessly evens the complexion whilst feeling totally weightless on the skin with a beautiful, radiant finish that still looks freshly applied at the end of the day. We also love how this foundation contains a number of skincare ingredients to calm and soothe the skin as you wear it.

"The formula is wonderful. You don’t need too much, it has good, buildable coverage and is long-wearing without looking or feeling heavy," says Hammer.

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Last, but not least, we have Beautifect's Blender makeup sponge and case as our very deserving makeup tool winner. The makeup artists on our judging panel particularly loved this case, which helps to hygienically protect the makeup sponge during travel whilst keeping their makeup kits clean. The sponge itself is also a great addition to your routine, helping to flawlessly blend foundation and concealer.

"The Beautifect Pod with Blender is a compact and versatile blender, making it perfect for on-the-go touch-ups," says Pal. "The blender adds convenience, ensuring flawless application wherever you are. It's ideal for both everyday use and travel."

Mandrides agrees. "I love this," she says. "This is a great beauty sponge; it's absorbent and it distributes product evenly. The case is great and a good idea to keep the sponge clean and hygienic whilst offering ventilation. I will definitely be purchasing more of these for my kit."

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I can't paint, I can't draw, but one thing I can do is makeup. To me, my face is like my own personal canvas, and I could spend hours trying out different blush techniques, contouring hacks and eyebrow shapes. When I was younger, I'd spend hours watching YouTube tutorials and recreating the makeup artist's every step. However, thanks to my job, these days I am lucky enough to chat to these makeup artists face-to-face and ask them for all of their tips and tricks.

One thing I am always keen to learn more about is how to apply eye shadow. There are so many different eyeshadow looks out there, but they can definitely be a little bit trickier to re-create at home. Not only that, but with everything from powder eye shadows, cream eye shadows and eye shadow pencils available, it can be hard to know what to buy to get your desired look.

So, I decided to reach out to London-based makeup artist Aimée Twist to get all of her advice on how to apply eye shadow and get it to last all day long. After speaking to Twist, I realised that I'd been applying my eye shadow all wrong (so much for being able to do makeup!), so keep on scrolling for everything you need to know...

How to Apply Eye Shadow, According to an Expert

"All eye shadow looks are prepped and executed differently, as there are so many different looks and eye shadow formulas out there," explains Twist. "It can be as easy as using a cream shadow and blending with your fingers, or more complicated, where you might be using multiple shadows and brushes. If you are starting to experiment with multi-colour eye shadow looks, I would say you need at least three brushes to complete this: a flat brush and two blending brushes." Check out Twist's step-by-step guide to a multiple colour eye shadow look below.

Step 1: Prep the Eyelid

"To complete this look, begin by prepping the eyes with a shadow primer of choice," says Twist. Eye shadow primers are great as they create the perfect base for your makeup and help your eye shadow to last all day.

Step 2: Apply Lightest Eye Shadow

Next, Twist says to take a flat brush and lay down your lightest colour all over the lid. It's always better to start with your lightest eye shadow colour first as these shadows are easier to blend.

Step 3: Apply Medium Eye Shadow

"Then, take your biggest blending brush and your medium colour and blend this from the outer corner through the crease of your eye to the inner corner," says Twist. "This will allow the most colour to be deposited in the outer eye."

Step 4: Repeat

You can repeat this process until you get your desired payoff from this colour.

Step 5: Apply Darkest Eye Shadow

"Finally, take your darkest colour and your smaller blending brush and follow the same step as before. You should get a more concentrated deposit for colour from using the smaller brush," explains Twist. "If you find the colour looks a bit too much or not blended enough, take the bigger brush, without picking up anymore colour and use it to blend the hard edges. You can again repeat this process until you achieve the desired look."

Step 6: Apply Shimmer

This final step is totally optional, but if you want, Twist says you can take a pop of shimmer on your finger and place it in the centre of the lid for a bit of sparkle.

How Can You Make Your Eye Shadow Last?

One thing I always struggle with is making my eye shadow last all day. However, Twist has a great tip. "I would recommend investing in a good eye shadow primer, as this will prevent the natural oils coming through and breaking down the eye shadow throughout the day," she tells me. "There are a lot on the market now, and you can choose yours based on your preference. Some are clear, which usually have the best hold for oily eyelids, some work like a concealer and reduce the pigment on your eye, and then some are like a cream colour base."

"I personally like to use an eye shadow base with a colour pigment (such as the Mac Pro Longwear Paint Pot) as this will actually make the eye shadows on top pop more and allow you to use less product overall, making blending time quicker and easier."

Is It Best to Apply Eye Shadow With a Brush or Your Fingers?

Whenever I watch makeup videos, I see some makeup artists using brushes to apply eye shadow, whilst others prefer to use their fingers. So, I was keen to know which method is actually best. "I love both equally and for different reasons," says Twist. "When working with matte eye shadows, brushes are your best friend, as this will give you a more seamless blend (they can go a bit patchy if blended with fingers). However, shimmers get the best effect [when using] fingers, as the natural oils on your fingers will give you the best payoff. I also like to use my fingers to change the way eye shadow appears on the skin. [For example], if I feel that the eye shadow looks too intense or overdone, I will go in and blend with my fingers to make the shadow look softer and more lived-in."

So there you have it. Everything you need to know about applying eye shadow that will actually last. If you're keen to give a more complicated eye shadow look a go, check out my essentials below.

Products You Need for a Seamless Eye Shadow Look

I don't know about you, but I can't stop thinking about all the looks from the 2024 Met Gala. From Zendaya's second red carpet outfit to Kendall Jenner's archival Givenchy gown, we are certainly not short of fashion inspiration. As a beauty editor, I was on the lookout for the stand out hair and makeup trends of the night, and I was not disappointed. Chic bobs, stylish side parts and wet-look hairstyles were all over the red carpet, and when it came to makeup, it was all about dark berry tones, bright red lips and shimmery highlighter.

However, one trend that I couldn't help but notice on lots of celebs was frosted eyeshadow. I know what you're thinking, didn't we put this divisive millennial makeup look behind us? Frosted eyeshadow was all the rage back in the '90s and early '00s, but recently the trend had been replaced with more neutral, matte eyeshadow looks.

Britney Spears wearing blue frosted eyeshadow in 2000.

That being said, according to the 2024 Met Gala red carpet, this trend is back in a big way for spring and summer, and I'm not mad about it. There's something so fun about the shimmery, frosted finish, and you can experiment with lots of different colours depending on your desired look. I personally love putting a little bit of frosted eyeshadow in the inner corners of my eyes to really make them pop.

If you're looking for more inspiration on how to wear this eyeshadow trend this spring, then keep on scrolling for some of the best frosted eyeshadow looks from the 2024 Met Gala...

Celebrities Wearing Frosted Eyeshadow at the 2024 Met Gala

Madelyn Cline opted for a shimmery, silver eyeshadow which paired beautifully with her sparkling accessories.

Jennifer Lopez kept her look a little more subtle with a hint of frosted eyeshadow in the inner corners of her eyes.

Sabrina Carpenter paired her frosted eyeshadow with a pretty pink blush.

Frosted eyeshadow and frosted eyelashes? So fun!

To make this look more wearable, opt for a subtle shimmery shade like Naomi Campbell.

If you want to make more of a statement, you can't go wrong with a pop of colour.

Rachel Zegler's blue frosted eyeshadow is giving me all of the '90s vibes.

Products You Need For A Frosted Eyeshadow Look:

Ever found yourself trying to re-create your friend's makeup, only to realise that her smokey eye shadow look doesn't look the same on your eye shape? I don't know about you, but it's taken me years to work out what makeup actually suits my eyes, as when it comes to products such as eye shadow and eyeliner, it's not a one-size-fits-all approach. Here at Who What Wear UK, we've spent years talking to makeup artists and asking them for their tips and tricks on things like how to do makeup for hooded eyes and almond eyes, but today, we're here to talk about round eye shapes.

As someone with hooded eyes, I've always been jealous of those with a round eye shape, as there's a lot more space to experiment with makeup. That being said, it can still be difficult to know where to start, so I reached out to Carly Utting, senior makeup artist at MAC, to find out which eye makeup looks she recommends. Keep scrolling for everything you need to know.

How Can You Tell If You Have Round Eyes?

Sometimes it can be hard to figure out which eye shape you have. According to Utting, the best way to identify if you have rounded eyes is to look directly into a mirror. "Usually, if the outer corner of your eye slants downwards and is not pulled up towards your ear, this indicates your eye shape is rounded," she says. "A rounded eye also generally looks more circular in the mirror than almond. Historically, most eye makeup is designed to 'lift' the eye into a more almond shape, pulling the outer corners upwards to elongate. This can be particularly challenging with a rounded eye shape, but not impossible. In fact, the difference particular eyeliner and eye shadow placement can make to a rounded eye can be quite incredible."

Eye Makeup Looks for Round Eyes

So, what are the best makeup looks for round eyes? Well, when thinking about your makeup, consider what kind of finish you'd like. "If you are looking to enhance your round eyes and accentuate the rounded shape, adding darkness to the lower and upper lash line is the way forward," says Utting. "Also, highlighting the centre of the eye with a lighter, frosted shadow can really enhance the prominence of the shape." However, if you want to alter the shape of your rounded eyes, Utting recommends adding deeper shades to the upper, outer area to balance and transform the eyes into a more elongated, almond shape. "Matte browns and greys work beautifully for this," she says.

Find out more about each eye look below.

1. Frosted Eye Shadow

As mentioned, if you want to enhance your round eye shape, frosted eye shadow is the way to go. According to Utting, adding this to the centre of your eyelid helps to accentuate the roundness of the eye.

A lighter shade in a shimmery texture really does help to open up the eyes and makes for a perfect evening makeup look.

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2. Kohl Eyeliner

Another makeup trick to accentuate your round eye shape is to use a kohl liner to outline your eyes. "Line the eye using kohl liner on the top and bottom," advises Utting. "[Gently] blend the liner with a soft, smudgy brush and avoid pulling it out and up, as this will elongate the eye."

I mean, how stunning does this look?

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3. Doe-Eyed Mascara

Mascara can make a huge difference to your eye makeup. Utting recommends creating a "starburst" shape when applying mascara on round eyes. "Rather than pulling all your lashes out towards the ear, fan them up on the outer lashes, upwards in the middle and inwards for the inner lashes. Repeat with the bottom lashes. This will create a '60s-style doe-eyed shape."

If you want a more minimal eye makeup look, give doe-eyed mascara a go.

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4. Winged Eyeliner

Now, if you'd rather create a more almond shape with your eye makeup, give winged eyeliner a go. "Create a strong wing in the outer corner of the eye to lift and elongate the eye shape," says Utting.

There are lots of ways to re-create this look. If you want more of a statement effect, I recommend using a liquid liner. However, if you want a softer finish, try using your eye shadow as a liner and apply it to your lids with an angled brush.

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5. Matte Eye Shadow

Another trick for creating more of an almond eye shape is to use a matte eyeshadow. By applying a matte colour across the lid, you'll essentially 'flatten' the rounded shape. Utting says you can also add a deeper shade onto the outer, upper crease line to help transform the eye to a more almond shape.

I think matte shadows look so chic.

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