Applying a single colour to the eyelid is a quick way to make your eyes look fresh and polished.  Finishing the look off with a sweep of mascara helps to frame and define the eyes.  This type of look can also be accomplished with just one brush (or sponge applicator, making it the simplest to create.  Perfect for when you are pushed for time or just want an easy way to make your eyes look brighter, more awake and defined! Here’s how to create a simple eyeshadow look:

Click here to read my article ‘Parts of the Eye’ for help on where to place eyeshadow colours.

Products:

Base: Urban Decay Primer Potion in Original (clear) Lid: eyeshadow colour of your choice (I used Urban Decay Fireball,  a shimmery shade which flashes pink-peach-gold, depending on the light)
Highlight: eyeshadow colour close to your skintone (I used MAC Ricepaper, a light shimmery cream-gold)
Black mascara: I used Maybelline ‘The Falsies’ for this look to create a wide-eyed, false lash effect Brush: a flat shader brush (I used the MAC 239)

Steps

Note: wipe the brush off well between each stage to make sure that colours do not muddy together or apply where you do not want them.  You can remove residual traces of colour by wiping the brush off on a clean piece of tissue/kitchen paper or by dusting the bristles on the back of a clean hand.

1. Apply your chosen eyeshadow base all over the lid, either using your fingers or a brush.

2. Take your flat shader brush and pat your chosen lid colour all over the lid.  Keep the browbone free of colour, as this area will be highlighted in the next step.  Patting the eyeshadow on ensures that the colour goes on evenly.  Try to avoid swiping the brush from side to side, as this means the colour will apply evenly and go elsewhere.

3. Take your flat brush and apply your chosen highlight colour to the area just under the browbone, overlapping slightly where the lid colour touches the top of the crease.  Take the highlighter colour down into the inner corner to add brightness to the eye.  Try patting the highlighter shade on first to apply the colour evenly. You can then swipe the brush side to side to blend the colour out evenly.  Applying a highlighter helps to blend and finish off the overall look.

4. Apply mascara to the top lashes.  You can also apply mascara to the bottom lashes if you like. Here’s one more picture of the finished look: