Every weekend, I get stuck doing almost all of my girlfriends’ makeup. Eyes are the most prominent part of makeup on the face and I’ve developed a formula that I use almost every time.
The Rule of Four I always try to use four shadows: a base, a blender, a highlighter, and a contrast. Always start with a primer, which is the most important part! Without it, eye shadow is dull, wears off, and creases. Pre-made eye shadow primers are available but I’ve found you can also use concealer and even various chapsticks!
1. The Base Your base is what your entire look is based on. If you want a lighter eye, use a light base (same with dark). Your base is also the easiest place to use color since you blend over it later. It is applied all over the lid.
2. The Contrast Keep the darkest color on the outside of the eyelid. By applying it on the outer area, it automatically makes the shadows blend outward which is flattering considering the natural curvature of your lashes.
3. The Blender This shadow blends the base and contrast together. The blender should be darker than the highlighter, but still lighter than the contrast (think of it as the middle ground, like your base). Shadows with glitter or shimmer works best because it creates more “pop” on your eyelid. Apply it in a circular motion simply pushing in between and around the other colors.
4. The Highlighter Apply the lightest color under the brow bone and on the inside corners of the eyes to brighten them. Also, use it to blend the edges of the other colors so everything fades into one another.
This same concept can be achieved with three or even more shadows too. Always remember: light on the top, middle on the lid, darker on the outside. Just a little darker in the corners makes the biggest difference!
Check out last Thursday’s blog Making Up for Autumn to see how you can darken your make up for fall!
For questions or comments, email me at amlarso2@asu.edu or to follow the mind of a fashion blogger, follow me @soamandawaslike.
