How to Create a Natural Eyeshadow Look

Use neutral tones close to your skin color, blend upward and outward, and keep the deepest shade in the outer corner only.

Natural eyeshadow is about enhancing your eye shape, not announcing you're wearing makeup—master this and you'll never look overdone.

1. Prime your lids. Pat eyeshadow primer or concealer across the entire eyelid from lash line to brow bone. This prevents creasing and makes colors appear true to pan. Let it set for thirty seconds before moving on.
2. Apply your base shade. Choose a matte shade one to two tones lighter than your skin. Use a fluffy brush to sweep this across the entire lid from lash line to brow bone. This creates an even canvas and makes blending easier.
3. Define the crease. Take a shade slightly deeper than your skin tone and apply it in windshield wiper motions through the crease with a smaller, denser brush. Start light and build up gradually. The goal is subtle definition, not a harsh line.
4. Deepen the outer corner. Use the deepest shade only in the outer V of the eye, blending it into the crease color. Keep this area small—think of drawing a tiny triangle. Blend the edges until there are no harsh lines.
5. Highlight strategic points. Apply a light, matte or subtle shimmer shade to the inner corner and just under the brow bone. Use your finger or a small brush. This opens up the eye and adds dimension without looking overdone.