How to Create a Dramatic Eye Makeup Look

Fall is here, and that means that holiday parties are right around the corner. My favorite thing about this time of year is having reasons to pull off a more dramatic eye look.

Your eye makeup application should begin after foundation and concealer have been applied so you know just what you are working with. A primer like Amazing Cosmetics Eyeshadow Primer ($16 at www.ulta.com) is mandatory to ensure smooth, even coverage when applying the most dramatic of eye makeup.

Fantastic eyebrows set the stage for dramatic eyes. If you have never groomed your eyebrows, it is best to get them arched by a professional the first time, so that you have a guideline after that point. To fill in sparse eyebrows, and lend a more polished look to your dramatic eye makeup, Too Faced Brow Envy Brow Shaping and Defining Kit ($35 at www.sephora.com) is a must-have addition to your makeup table.

Dramatic eyeshadow looks usually consist of 3 colors. The first and lightest is applied from eyebrow to lash-line. I like to use a soft, shell pink shade with a hint of shimmer. The next step is to apply color to the upper eyelid. My favorite is a dark, rose pink shimmer shadow. I use the dark pink color to line under my lower lashes as well. This step also provides an excellent base for your eyeliner. The third and final step of dramatic eyeshadow is using a contouring color to make a sideways V at the corner of your upper eyelid. I use a dark burgundy shade, and blend it across the crease.

To achieve a boldly lined look, I use two different products. The first is Wet and Wild Gel Eyeliner ($3- $5 at drug stores). I use this product to line my upper lashes and the area under the bottom lashes, making sure to continue the top line up and slightly away from the corners of my eyes. Next, I use Beautique Eyeliner Pencil in Black ($2.50 at www.sallybeauty.com) to line the inside lower lash-line.

Mascara is the finishing touch to any dramatic eye look. First, use eyelash curlers to achieve lift. After curling your eyelashes, apply a light dusting of face powder to them. This step will help the mascara to adhere to your lashes. Finally, apply a mascara product designed especially for more dramatic eye looks like Cover Girl LashBlastluxe Mascara in 2-3 coats.

Make sure, when going for dramatic eye looks to leave the rest of your face in nearly nude shades to avoid looking clownish.