Summer Makeup: Bright Eyeshadow Colors

No matter what makeup skill level you have, you can apply the bright popping eyeshadow colors seen on runways and fashion magazines. During the year and especially summer, bright eyeshadow is a fun way to bring color to the eyes. Bright colors can either be used subtly or boldly, depending on the person. Keep in mind that when bright colors are used around the eyes, remaining makeup should be neutral to avoid looking over-done.

When selecting colorful day eyeshadow, look for matte shadows instead of shimmery ones because shimmer powders draw too much attention for a day look. At night, those who really like adding a bit of shimmer to the eye can use a nude shadow or highlighting powder that has a slight shimmer to it compliment matte bright eyeshadow.

To create a look with bright eyeshadow, here are the tools you will need:

• Eyeliner brush

• Medium eyeshadow brush

• Bright eyeshadow palette like deep blues, purple, turquoise, green

• Mascara

• Eyeshadow Primer

Eyeshadow primer is ideal to use before makeup application to avoid creases that occur in the eye makeup. Primers also enhance the look of the shadow whether it is done boldly or subtle and gives it a more professional appearance.

Start by applying a soft layer of eyeshadow in a bright color over the entire lid using the medium eyeshadow brush. To create a more subtle look, apply only in the crease and for a bold look, extend the shadow all the way up to the bone underneath the eyebrow. For a more intense look that is used at night, keep adding layers until the desired effect is achieved. Try also using complimentary colors to blend together to create unique looks. Always use a base color on the eyelid, and then an accent color in the eyelid crease and blend for a seamless look.

Next, line the top and bottom lash lines with the same bright eyeshadow using a thin eyeliner brush. When applying shadow to the lower lashes, run the finger or small smudge brush along the shadow to soften the look under the eyes. For a bold look at night, use liquid black eyeliner to line both the top and bottom lashes.

Finish off the look by curling the eyelashes. To get a more exaggerated curl, either use a heated eyelash curler or warm up a traditional curler with the hot air from a hair dryer. Apply at least two or three coats of mascara to the lashes. When using bold, bright eyeshadow, the lashes must look thick and dark so they don't disappear against the shadow.