Panning from the runway to real life , we’re not just talking about a touch of shimmer on your lids—we’re talking about full-on, dramatic glitter eyeshadow looks that are fit for any red carpet or black-tie event.
But if you’re not a seasoned makeup pro, the thought of applying glitter eyeshadow may be daunting. Trust us, it doesn’t have to be. With the right products and application techniques, anyone can achieve a show-stopping glitter eye. To help you get started, we rounded up our best tips on how to create exquisite glitter eyeshadow looks, below.
Pick The Right Formula: Not all glitters are created equal—some formulas are chunky while others are more fine and shimmery. It’s important to pick a formula that works well with your intended look. If you want something more subtle, go for a fine shimmer like MAC Glitter in “Gold” ($21; maccosmetics.com). For something more dramatic, go for a chunkier glitter like Stila Magnificent Metals Glitter & Glow Liquid Eye Shadow in “Diamond Dust” ($24; sephora.com).
Choose Your Colors Wisely: Just like with any other eyeshadow look, it’s important to pick colors that complement each other and work well with your eye color. If you have blue eyes, try using gold or copper tones to make them pop. If you have green or hazel eyes, purple tones will make them stand out. And if you have brown eyes, just about any color will work—so have fun and experiment!
Use A Primer: This step is key when it comes to getting your glitter eye makeup to last all night long—without creasing or smudging. After applying your usual concealer and foundation routine, apply an eye primer all over your lids (we love urban decay’s original primer potion; $24; sephora.com). This will help create a smooth canvas for your shadow and also keep it in place throughout the night—no matter how many dance moves you bust out on the dance floor!
Apply Glitter Adhesive: Once your primer is dry, it’s time to apply your adhesive (this step is key if you want your glitter to stay put!). We recommend using something like NYX Professional Makeup Glitter Primer ($7; ulta.com), which comes with its own built-in brush for easy application. Simply apply the adhesive all over your lids (be sure not to get any in your eye!) and then wait a few minutes for it to set before moving on to the next step.
Pat On The Glitter: Now for the fun part! Using either your fingers or a flat synthetic brush (like this one from Morphe; $7; ulta.com), gently pat on the glitter shadow of your choice onto your lid until desired coverage is achieved. If using loose glitter, be sure tap off any excess before applying onto lid so that you don’t end up with fallout later on. And if using pressedglitter shadow , gently pat onto lid until desired coverage is achieved—no need for brushes here!
Once you’ve achieved desired coverage , use a clean brush or your finger diffused edges . Then , add additional coats build up intensity .
Finish With A Setting Spray : To really make sure your look lasts , finish with a setting spray . We love the Urban Decay All Nighter Long Lasting Makeup Setting Spray ($33 ; sephora . com ) . Simply hold bottle eight inches away from face and spray liberally onto skin .