4 Eyeshadow Combinations You Need to Try, According to a MUA
September 28, 2021
Creating a colorful eyeshadow look can be intimidating. Between choosing what eyeshadow colors look good together and also fit the vibe that you’re going for and blending them seamlessly, it can often feel like it requires expert help. That’s why we tapped Los Angeles-based makeup artist Emily Oliver to share her tried-and-true pairings for any occasion.
Best Eyeshadow Combinations for a Shimmery Smoky Eye: Gold and Brown
According to Oliver, this eyeshadow duo is great for a subtle, smoky eye. “Gold and brown pair well, and the result is both elegant and striking,” she says. To get the look, we recommend using Urban Decay 24/7 Eyeshadow in Half Baked and Lancôme Color Design Eyeshadow in Mochaccino. Mochaccino is a matte brown shade that pairs well with the shimmery Half Baked, a true gold hue that glides on like a dream.
Best Color Combinations for an Everyday Look: Cream and Taupe
Matte cream and taupe are a classic shadow pair that works regardless of the occasion. We recommend applying the cream shade all over the lid and working the taupe into the crease and on the outer edges to create definition. To get the look, reach for the L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Monos Eyeshadow in Mix and Matte, a matte cream shade, and the NYX Professional Makeup Jumbo Eye Pencil in Iced Mocha.
Best Eyeshadow Combinations for a Bold Look: Burnt Orange and Navy
Burnt orange really pops on the lid, creating a point of focus. Navy, when blended into the lash line, provides a nice contrast and a little bit of edge. When using eyeshadow sticks, all you have to do is draw on some orange shadow and buff it out just past the crease. Then, smudge your navy shadow into the lash line using a short, flat brush. We love the Urban Decay 24/7 Shadow Stick in Hardfall and Urban Decay 24/7 Shadow Stick in LSD for this look — high-performance shadows that offer loads of pigment.
Best Eyeshadow Combinations for Soft Glam: Rose and Champagne
Rose and champagne eyeshadow shades are universally flattering, soft and feminine. They're perfect for achieving soft glam looks. Apply the champagne eyeshadow all over the lid and pop the rose onto the center, stopping at the crease. Next, blend the eyeshadow colors well, so the transition is seamless. Our favorite pairing for this look is the EM Cosmetics Cosmic Pearl Dewy Eyeshadow and Urban Decay Moondust Eyeshadow in Specter, two shimmery hues that look amazing on their own but even better together.
Design: Hannah Packer
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