Why you should make a drama out of your eyes this festive season
Want to perfect a party look for your eyes? Nars senior make-up artist Rachel Hardie shares the tricks of the trade.
With the festive season almost in full swing, it’s time not only to search for that perfect party outfit – but think about what make-up you’re going to wear with it.
Eyeshadow is a powerful tool. It can be key to brightening up a little black dress – or complementing a colourful ensemble. But above all, it accentuates our eyes, one of our best features.
“I really think eyes are so important as they are a feature that can really show your emotion,” Rachel said.
“Naturally when talking to others, it’s the first thing people notice. Making up the eyes in different ways can really alter someone’s look and a little bit of definition can go a long way.”
Perfect prep
This season, while the hair trend is a more effortless look, make-up is taking centre stage.
And dramatic eyes, whether smoky or colourful, are in fashion. But before you think about eyeshadow, it’s important to ensure the lids are prepped.
“Use an eyeshadow base or primer on the eyelids,” Rachel said. “This is a saviour, ensuring longevity and helping the colour to pop and blend seamlessly. I also love to use a warm base to any eye makeup, which will give extra dimension and ease of blend.”
Layer up
Whether you choose a single shade, or building colours on top of each other, you can still achieve a dramatic look.
“A single shade of shadow can be so versatile, a simple wash of colour with something that really makes the eye colour pop. A pink/peach tone looks beautiful on blue and green eyes,” Rachel explained.
“Personally, I like to mix up different textures when using eyeshadow, giving extra dimension.
“My favourite is a pigment liner to colour the base of the lid and then blend out with your finger. I then press a shadow on top. Something with a warm rusty hue suits all eye colours.”
She added: “The colour block eye has been a really popular trend this season, and I love using bold colours such as an electric blue, Nars Outremer single shadow (£17) packed on top of Ocean Drive High Pigment Longwear Liner (£19), for a fun bold look.”
A good eye masc
Rachel’s top tip is to choose a good mascara to sculpt your lashes and finish off the look.
“If you build in the outer corners, the effect has more of a feline look,” she said. “Winter is a great time to refresh your makeup, I love adding a pop of inner corner highlight to lift the tiredness. A warm nude looks stunning in the crease to warm up winter complexions.
“It really is a great time to experiment.”