How to Choose an Eye Shadow Color

This is not the way to go when choosing an eye shadow color.

Your eyes are the windows to your soul. Make them come alive with a touch of shadow on the lids. Don't choose a color just because you like it, choose colors that go well with your skin tone and on special occasions you can match your eyeshadow with your clothes.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

1. Shop for shades that complement your skin and eye color. Look for colors that softly contrast with the shade of your eyes - not colors that match them exactly.

2. Choose simple, natural shades. If you opt for bright or trendy colors, be careful; they can look unnatural unless balanced with other suitable tones, and may go out of style as fast as they came in.

3. Buy colors that blend well together. You want your eyes to attract the attention, not any marked lines caused by your shadow.

4. Keep in mind that dark colors will minimize your eyes, while light shades will make them stand out.

5. Consider soft browns and tans with sandy or pink undertones for blue eyes.

6. Wear khaki and brown shades with yellow undertones for green eyes.

7. Accent dark brown and black eyes with brown and charcoal shadows.

8. Experiment. Head to a department store's cosmetic counter and have your eyes made up by a professional. Ask for color combinations that could work for day and evening.

Tips & Warnings

• A little color goes a long way. Begin with a little shadow, and gradually increase it to find the amount that flatters you the most.

• Shadow can look a lot darker in its palette, so don't let color intensity keep you from trying a shade you like.

• If you experiment with bright shadows, use them as a wash over the eyelids to add a hint of color.

• Shadow may irritate your eyes, especially if you wear contact lenses. Tap excess powder from the applicator before applying.