Tricks to define your eyes

Three simple steps to creating bigger, brighter and more defined eyes

InStyle Contributor / April 11 2016

Creating bigger, brighter eyes is a classic make-up look that will take you from desk side to dinner. Make-up artist Charlotte Blakeney reveals three simple steps to sweeping away any signs of fatigue, amping up the drama for evening and defining your eyes for a standout look.

1

Build your base

Shades such as grey, taupe and bone are both flattering and foolproof, says Blakeney, who recommends camouflaging redness by covering lids with a pale shadow then using a warmer hue just above the lid to “draw out the eyes and make them appear more youthful”. Lastly, add definition by applying a darker shadow to your lash lines – but, Blakeney cautions, don’t go too heavy on the bottom lashes as it can make you look tired.
Apply eyeshadow

2

Add shimmer

Shimmery shadows open up your eyes but take care to use them sparingly as too much powder can settle into fine lines, drawing attention to crow’s feet. Lightly dot a gold or champagne tone along your brow bones and in the inner corner of your eyes to refresh your peepers.
Add shimmer

3

Enhance your lashes

A good mascara will add volume to lacklustre lashes; look for the thickening and lengthening formulas and experiment with brown or blue-black, which may work better with your complexion and hair colour than true black. Use an eyelash curler to “open hooded eyes”, says Blakeney then apply mascara, sweeping the wand from roots to tips. Fullness at the outer edge of the lids “will widen the eyes” so add a few individual false lashes to your upper lash lines.
apply mascara

Main image: Getty
Illustrations by: Ann Do

Hayley has contributed to a range of online and print titles including InStyle and Gritty Pretty