Eye Make-up Tips: Choosing Colors

These days, heavily made-up eyes paired with nude lips seem to be the trend. While I prefer a more natural look, I do put most of the focus on my eyes when I apply my makeup, because they are my favorite facial feature. I have a variety of different shadows and liners in my makeup bag that I use for different seasons and occasions.

Most women have what they consider a "day look" and a "night look". I tend to stick with a more natural look during the day, using more matte neutral tones, especially during the sticky summer months. At night, I am more open to experimentation. I might wear something that has more sparkle and sheen to it, experiment with fun, bright colors, or go for a dark and smoky look. The possibilities are endless.

Because there are so many choices out there, some women are unsure of what colors will work best for them. Women choose their eye makeup colors for a variety of reasons. Some women choose their eye makeup to compliment their skin tone. Others attempt to match their eye makeup to their outfit or accessories, while some religiously follow the latest eye makeup trends seen on the runway and in the pages of Glamour magazine. Some women treat their eye makeup like a mood ring and use it to express however they are feeling that day.

I do a little bit of everything. I may use different shades in the winter when my skin in paler than I do during the summer when my skin is more exposed to the sun. I typically am not a slave to fashion and beauty trends, but I have to admit that when I see a new makeup look in a magazine, I am tempted to run to the drug store and buy it whatever product they are advertising. I also might choose a color just because I'm drawn to it, regardless of whether or not the lady behind the makeup counter says that it will work with my skin tone.

However, I typically choose the color of my eye makeup according to my eye color. While neutral colors are flattering with nearly any eye color, when you're in the mood for something a little more adventurous, try using the compliment of your eye color. For example, my eyes are green, so pink tones look best on me because they make my eye color "pop".

Colors that are very similar to your natural eye color or that are too bright can steal the spotlight and actually take away from the natural beauty of your eyes. For example, wearing emerald green eye shadow or liner might be a fun change, but it will actually make my usually sparkling green eyes look due and lifeless in comparison. Loreal Cosmetics has a great product line of shadows, liners and mascaras that are designed to enhance your natural eye color. Each shadow comes with three colors, one for your brown bone, your lid and the crease. Just grab the products that are designed for your own eye color and your entire look is put together for you!

Finally, one color that you can't go wrong with is a bright white. Sweep a little across your brow bone and dab a bit on the inside of your eye, near your tear ducks. This is a trick I've learned from various professional makeup artists by watching countless beauty shows and reading fashion magazines. The white brings out the white of your eye and makes your eyes appear to pop and sparkle. The effect is hard to explain, but give it a try and you'll see what I mean. It really does work!

Whatever you choose, stay true to yourself. If beauty experts insist that purple is your best color and you absolutely despise it, then don't think that you are required to wear it. Wear whatever makes you happy and don't be afraid to step outside the box once in awhile. Even more important than color choice is how you apply your eye makeup. Don't go overboard if you look like you're ready for the circus, people aren't going to take you seriously. And remember, when it comes to shadows blend, blend and blend some more!