How to Choose and Use Shimmery Eye Shadows

Shimmery eye shadow is all the rage. Learn all you need to know about choosing beautiful shades and applying them tactfully.

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Eye shadow is big on self expression. The colors and hues available are virtually limitless, and eye shadow textures range from light dusts and powders to glitter, cream, or even liquid that turns to powder as it dries. Eye shadow can really dress up your look, whether you opt for dramatic colors that accentuate your eyes and your outfit, or subtle, neutral tones that complement your clothing and skin tone.

The eye shadow colors of the season seem to be bright and bold or smoky and seductive, although glimmery whites and neutrals add a lovely, soft element. Favorite eye shadow colors in many parts of the world seem to be in the purple and aquamarine families - especially amethyst, and purples paired with shimmery whites. The unspoken rule: don't be afraid to go a little bolder, a little darker!

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Money to buy makeup with
• Eye shadow
• Makeup applicator
• A mirror
• Other makeup, if desired

1. Choose a bold shade, if you dare.
   
   Makeup gives us an opportunity to enhance our best features, and for many, the eyes are among the top. If you enjoy setting and following trends, the bold and intense eye shadow colors might be perfect for you. Just imagine a lovely purple hue accenting your look, or a sparkling turquoise drawing attention to your eyes. Pair deeper, bolder shades with pale counterparts or a shimmery white eye shadow for a sexy, come-and-get-me look.

2. Mix and match colors and metallic vs. shimmery for a sexy and sophisticated look. Try cream shadows, loose powder or sparkle dust shadows, liquid shadows that turn to powder, and of course traditional shadows. Many brands now offer shimmery eye shadow sets boasting three, four, or even five complementing hues.

3. Choose neutral shades if you are nervous about darker ones. Apply the lighter color all over your eyelid and up to your brow, and then apply the darker shade to the lid from the crease down.
   
   If you aren't quite brave enough for a brilliant teal or turquoise splash of color across your lids, or a pummeling of purple atop your eyes, you may want to stay within the realms of less is more. Don't be disappointed if you aren't comfortable with intense shades of eye shadow. With less of a dramatic hue, you can still have a rockin' look. Just choose a product that offers a subtle sparkle!

4. Create special blends of color for special occasions.
   
   Physicians Formula Shimmer Strips Custom Bronzer, Blush & Eye Shadow is a fabulous product for adding just a hint of color to your lids. I chose this type of combination eye shadow, blush, and bronzer makeup to wear on my wedding day. It worked out beautifully and I can't get enough of it still! The shimmer strips are available in several hues, and each compact features five different shades. The powder packs a punch with built-in sparkle. Turn it up with the darker, bottom color strips or tone it down with the top shimmer strips in lighter shades.

5. Make eye contact!
   
   Wearing eye shadow can change your appearance as a fun and daring draw to your eyes. Express yourself through your eyes - after all, eye shadow can only add to your mystique when paired with powerful eye contact!

Tips & Warnings

• The nice thing about Physicians Formula Shimmer Strips Custom Bronzer, Blush & Eye Shadow is that you can use it all over your face to add shimmer and a tanner appearance. The highly practical and functional versatility make this makeup product well worth the $10 to $12 it costs. The texture is clean and smooth, and it goes on easily as eye shadow. In my experiences, it's even stayed put for all day or all night wear!
• Remember to remove your makeup before bed!

Resources

• Beauty and Makeup Tips