Here's How to Apply Eyeshadow in 5 Easy Steps (2025)

Applying eyeshadow is pretty simple; knowing how to apply eyeshadow correctly is an entirely different mater. We're all aiming for colors and contours that make our eyes pop—but there's a fine line between gorgeous bold and scary bold. Ree Drummond's favorite eyeshadow shade is dark and shimmery! "A little goes a long way," she says. "By the same token, it doesn’t go on so heavy that you have to have a light touch." Striking this balance can sometimes be tricky, so we spoke to Philadelphia editorial and wedding makeup artist Kristyn Rudnet to get the scoop on how to quickly and affordably get a luxe look that stays on all day.

It’s important to keep in mind that there are many different ways to apply eyeshadow. These are just guidelines, so feel free to have some fun! “The great thing about makeup is that you can play around with it. It really depends on what you're trying to achieve,” Kristyn says. Whether you’re looking to create a dramatic look for date night or a casual eye for school pickup, these basic tips will help you feel confident and look polished.

Below, we’ll talk you through an easy eyeshadow step-by-step guide, which starts with getting the right supplies. One of the easiest things you can do to ensure success is get your hands on some great makeup brushes. “I always tell my clients to keep a fluffy shadow brush that they use only for blending everything together at the very end of the application,” Kristyn says. Next comes primers, palettes and final presentation. Ready to step out of the shadows? It’s makeover time!

Step 1: Start with primer.

Step 2: Invest in the best eyeshadow brushes.

Step 3: Pick your palette.

Step 4: Work light to dark.

To make your eyes look bigger, brush a light dusting of the highlighter right at the brow bone. Next, coat your lid with the two medium colors in your palette, using the lighter shade near your lash line. Last, apply the darkest shade in the crease of your eye (basically, right above your eyeball). "The lighter color makes your eyelid appear larger and the darker color creates depth in the crease," Kristyn says. You can then apply one of the medium shades over the darker color in the crease and slightly above it to help blend it all together if you want a softer look.

Step 5: Remove loose makeup.

It's wise to do your eye makeup first so that when some of the shadow inevitably dusts off, you can wipe around the area with a makeup wipe. Finish your eye makeup completely (including eyeliner and mascara) and then clean up the surrounding area. From there, you can start on your face makeup.