Choosing Perfect Eyeshadow Colors with Color Wheel

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 10 July 2023 6 min read

Unlocking the magic of eyeshadow application is a game-changer in any beauty routine. A key tool in this journey is the color wheel—an artist's secret weapon and your new best friend. The color wheel for eye shadow can guide you towards a flawless eye makeup look that complements your skin tone and enhances your natural beauty. So let's dive into the vibrant world of color theory and eyeshadow.

1. Get Acquainted with the Color Wheel

Before we delve into the specifics of choosing the perfect eyeshadow, it's essential to understand the basics of the color wheel. This circular diagram of colors lays the foundation for color matching and harmony in all visual arts, including makeup.

Understanding Primary Colors

Primary colors are the building blocks of all other colors. These are red, blue, and yellow. Let's say you're after a bold, intense eye look—you might reach for a vibrant primary color. For instance, a deep blue eyeshadow can make a dramatic statement, especially when contrasted with a lighter skin tone or an eye color it complements.

Exploring Secondary Colors

When you mix two primary colors, you get secondary colors: green, orange, and purple. These shades are a step up from the boldness of primary colors. They can be a bit more sophisticated and versatile. For example, a plum-purple eyeshadow can add depth and drama to your makeup look without being as stark as a primary color.

Delving into Tertiary Colors

Finally, tertiary colors are the result of mixing a primary color with a secondary one. These are the shades in between, like red-orange or blue-green. They offer a more subtle, nuanced palette for your eye makeup. A soft, rose-gold eyeshadow (a blend of red and orange) can provide a warm, romantic look that's perfect for a day out or a special occasion.

With a grasp on primary, secondary, and tertiary colors, we're well on our way to unlocking the full potential of the color wheel for eye shadow.

2. Determine Your Skin Tone

Now that we've covered the basics of the color wheel for eye shadow, let's shift our focus to skin tones. Knowing your skin tone is key in choosing eyeshadow colors that will accentuate your features and create a harmonious look.

Identify Warm Skin Tones

Warm skin tones lean towards peachy, yellow, or golden undertones. If the veins on your wrist appear green, or gold jewelry enhances your complexion, you likely have a warm skin tone. Warm-toned individuals often find that earthy eyeshadows—think browns, oranges, or golds—complement their skin beautifully.

Recognize Cool Skin Tones

Cool skin tones, on the other hand, have blue or pink undertones. Are your veins more blue than green? Does silver jewelry look stunning on you? If so, you're probably cool-toned. Eyeshadow colors like blues, purples, and pinks can create a striking contrast with your complexion, making your eyes pop.

Spot Neutral Skin Tones

Neutral skin tones, as the name suggests, are a balance of warm and cool undertones. If you can't quite tell whether your veins are green or blue, or if both gold and silver jewelry suit you, you might be neutral-toned. The beauty of having a neutral skin tone is that you can experiment with a wide variety of eyeshadow colors from the color wheel.

Identifying whether you have a warm, cool, or neutral skin tone is a fundamental step in mastering the art of eyeshadow application. Remember, the goal is to enhance your natural beauty by creating a harmonious color scheme that complements your complexion.

3. Match Colors to Your Skin Tone

With your skin tone identified, it's time to match it with the perfect eyeshadow colors. The color wheel for eye shadow is your best friend here, guiding you towards shades that will make your eyes truly stand out.

Pair with Warm Tones

If you have a warm skin tone, consider reaching for eyeshadows with similar warm hues. Earthy colors like copper, bronze, and gold can create a harmonious, natural look. For a bold pop of color, why not try a vibrant orange or a deep red? These colors can make a stunning statement against warm skin tones.

Coordinate with Cool Tones

For those with cool skin tones, colors on the cooler side of the color wheel for eye shadow can work wonders. Shades of blue, purple, and green can create a beautiful contrast that makes your eyes stand out. For a softer look, try eyeshadows in cool pinks or mauves.

Balance with Neutral Tones

Neutral skin tones have the freedom to explore the entire color wheel for eye shadow. You can balance your look with both warm and cool shades, or even mix them for a unique effect. Try pairing a cool blue eyeshadow with a warm copper for an unexpected yet striking look.

Remember, these are just guidelines. The beauty of makeup is its versatility and the ability to experiment. Don't be afraid to play around with different eyeshadow colors and find what works best for you.

4. Choose the Right Eyeshadow Palette

Now that you've got a handle on your skin tone and the color wheel for eye shadow, it's time to choose the perfect palette. Here are a few standout choices that cater to a range of skin tones and tastes.

Urban Decay Naked Palette

The Urban Decay Naked Palette is a classic choice, offering a range of neutral shades that suit all skin tones. From matte to shimmer, light to dark, this palette has it all. It's a great starting point if you're new to the color wheel for eye shadow.

MAC Eye Shadow X9

MAC's Eye Shadow X9 palettes are compact yet packed with color. Each palette offers a curated selection of nine shades, enabling you to create a variety of looks. Whether you prefer warm, cool, or neutral tones, there's a X9 for you.

Too Faced Chocolate Bar Palette

The Too Faced Chocolate Bar Palette is not just sweet to look at, it's also incredibly versatile. With a mix of matte and shimmer shades, from neutral browns to vibrant purples, this palette allows you to explore the color wheel for eye shadow to your heart's content.

Remember, the best palette for you is the one that makes you feel confident and allows you to express yourself. So don't be afraid to try different ones until you find your perfect match.

5. Apply Your Eyeshadow Like a Pro

Now that you've selected your ideal eyeshadow palette, it's time to apply it. But how can you ensure a professional finish? Let's break it down into three key steps.

Blend Colors Together

Remember the color wheel for eye shadow you learned about? It's time to put it to use. Start by selecting two to three colors that complement your skin tone. Apply the lightest color on the inner corners of your eyes and the darkest color on the outer corners. Then, use a blending brush to seamlessly merge the colors together. The key here is to blend until there are no harsh lines — just a smooth transition from one color to the next.

Highlight the Inner Corners

Highlighting the inner corners of your eyes can make you look more awake and vibrant. Choose a light, shimmery shade from your palette and apply it to the inner corners of your eyes. This small detail can make a big difference in your overall look.

Define the Crease

Defining the crease of your eye adds depth and dimension to your look. Choose a medium shade from your palette and apply it to your crease, following the natural curve of your eye. Then, blend it well to achieve a seamless transition from the crease color to the lid color.

And there you have it! With these techniques and your understanding of the color wheel for eye shadow, you're well on your way to creating eye-catching looks. Remember, practice makes perfect. So, have fun and keep experimenting until you find your signature style.

If you loved learning about choosing the perfect eyeshadow colors with the color wheel, then you'll definitely want to explore Jauni's workshop, 'How to Pick a Colour Palette'. In this workshop, you'll gain an even deeper understanding of color theory and learn how to create stunning color palettes for various makeup looks and other creative projects. Don't miss out on this opportunity to enhance your color skills!