Eyeshadow 101: Tips + Tricks to Acing Everyday Eye Makeup

Misty Spinney
May 20, 2014

There are 1,000,001 tutorials that show you how to DIY the trickiest and most dramatic eyeshadow looks out there. But since we’re not guestlisters at year-round galas, we’re in serious need of a beauty tutorial that can help us master looks we can actually wear week in and week out. So we’re breaking down the beauty basics with Eyeshadow 101: Our go-to guide for acing stunning everyday makeup looks. Consider this your cheat sheet for all things eye makeup — get ready for tricks + tips to fly! — and once you’ve got it memorized, you should be able to execute runway-level tutorials just like that. Now grab your makeup kits: Brit beauty school is officially in session!

GET IN THE ‘ZONES’

Before you even think about reaching for that sparkly shadow, let’s get up close and personal with your features, specifically: your eye-shape. As you’ve probably read before, there are certain looks and styles that flatter each unique eye shape best, but that can be tricky to identify. So instead of sweatin’ it over confusing charts and labels, concentrate on your ZONES — the key areas that define everyone’s eyes. These six areas are universal, and so are the two techniques used to prettify them to perfection: highlighting, or brightening; and contouring, or blending and reshaping.


– Highlight the brow bone

Urban Decay’s Naked2

Maybelline Color Tattoo ($6) when you’re ready to go pro (or just have a little fun!). Finally, there are four basic eyeshadow brushes. Really! It’s time to put that tiny foam applicator to rest! You won’t believe what a difference the upgrade makes — the switch gives you greater control + accuracy. Add these four essentials to your makeup bag stat:

KNOW YOUR SHADOWS + BRUSHES

– Mac 249 Large Shader Brush ($22): Use this flat brush to highlight the brow bone + inner corners and your eyelid.

– Mac 217 Blending Brush ($24): This fluffy tool is perfect for contouring the crease of your eyes.

– Eco Tools Shading Brush ($5): Use this wide, pointed brush to add either highlighter or contouring shadow to a more detailed area like the outer crease.

– Mac 266 Small Angle Brush ($20): This thin, angled brush is great for smudging highlighter or contouring shadow along the bottom lash line.

Now for the fun part: putting what we’ve learned to use with three so-simple tutorials! This trio of everyday (+ night!) looks should serve as fitting inspiration for becoming makeup artist-level familiar with your facial features. ‘Cause remember, these commuter-chic looks using the shadows and brushes we mentioned above are the base for the most swoonable red carpet eyes imaginable.

Every Day Natural Beauty: For a natural glowing look every time you leave the house.

1. Begin by highlighting your brow bone, inner corners and lids with a bright reflective color like the Urban Decay Naked2 palette’s Sin with your flat brush.

DIY THE LOOKS

2. Now contour the crease in your eyes with a medium matte shadow like Urban Decay’s Buck.

3. Pro tip: Balance your eyeshadow and help bring out that natural glow by applying a small amount of the blush you are wearing into the inner creases of your eyes with your fluffy brush. This warms up the eye and ties it in with the hue that is on your cheeks. I am wearing Nars’s Orgasm ($34). (Yeah, it’s that good :P)

4. Finish off the look with a little eyeliner and a coat of your favorite mascara.

So chic! Make this fresh faced look your AM go-to.

The Any Occasion Smokey Eye: Add onto your already luminous day makeup to get a smoldering evening-ready look in just three easy steps.

1. Using your shading brush, apply a smoldering black color like Urban Decay’s Creep to the outer corners of your crease.

2. Apply the same color onto the outer edge of your lower lash line.

3. Apply a small amount of a shimmering gold like Urban Decay’s Halfbaked with your flat brush directly onto the center of your lid to create a pop of color.

Ready for ANY occasion? We think so!

Color Cream Quickie: Master challenging cream shadow by using it simply (and knowing one especially clever beauty hack!).

1. Add a small amount of ‘hold’ or long-lasting eye color like Maybelline’s 24 Hour Color Tattoo in Edgy Emerald to your outer crease and along your upper lash line using your finger.

2. Then apply it to the outer corners of the lower lash line with your ring finger.

3. Pro tip: Apply a small amount of the cream shadow to the wrong end (aka the handle) of any brush and tap it onto the areas where you want a little more drama.

Done and done! We’re definitely gonna use that last beauty hack again and again!

Oh, and here’s a gratuitous photo of me and Turkey Temple. He’s pretty into blush.

24 Cozy 'Gilmore Girls' Gifts For Anyone Who'd Rather Be In Stars Hollow

If there's one thing about Gilmore Girls fans you can count on, it's their passion. They love the quirky one liners, memorable moments, and are usually either Team Jess or Team Logan (sorry Dean...). Give any Gilmore Girls lover in your life the chance to transport themselves to Stars Hollow this holiday season — without having to make the trek to Washington, Connecticut or the Warner Bros. stage in Hollywood. These Gilmore Girls gift ideas are fun, thoughtful, and very cozy, which are also three hallmarks of the series itself! From a coffee mug that Luke Danes would approve of to the perfect gifts for Taylor Swift fans, this Gilmore Girlsgift guide will make you say "Oy with the poodles already!"

Keep reading for 24 Gilmore Girls-themed gift ideas for 2024.

Amazon

The Third Gilmore Girl: A Memoir

Get all the behind the scenes info you could ever dream of when you pick up Kelly Bishop's new memoir!

Hot Topic

Loungefly Gilmore Girls Icons Mini Backpack

I was absolutely gagged the first time I saw this backpack. Tiny pizza slices, both the Luke's Diner and Chilton logos, AND the gazebo? I need this, like, right now.

Sunday Best

Sunday Best Peggy Sweater

Consider this white cable knit sweaterthe Rory Gilmore sweater for the season. I cannot stop wearing mine. It's super soft and the perfect medium weight (meaning you won't be cold but you also won't feel weighed down). It's also not itchy at all. I love wearing it with jeans, or tucked into trousers or a skirt.

Amazon

Cotton Baseball Hat

For a more subtle nod to the fashion on the show, a blue baseball cap gives major Luke Danes vibes without having to walk around wearing Gilmore Girls merchandise. Wear it with a crewneck and oversized coat now (hello '90s "It" girl!) and a tee shirt come spring.

Book of the Month

Book of the Month

Channel your inner Rory with the Book of the Month subscription service. The cool part about someone else picking out the books is that you'll find titles — and authors — you didn't even know to look for.

Nordstrom

Espresso Martini Statement Earrings

It wouldn't be an episode of Gilmore Girls without a cup of coffee, or a martini at one of Richard and Emily's Friday night dinners. Combine the two iconic beverages with these statement earrings! They're bold, they're quirky, and they'll be the talk of all your holiday parties.

Etsy

Stars Hollow "Autumn Festival" Travel Poster

Nothing screams Stars Hollow like a festival, and this autumnal poster celebrates the best parts of small town life. Whether you choose to display it in a gallery wall or on a bookshelf, you'll feel like you're coming home every time you look at it.

Etsy

Luke's Diner Mug

With a Luke's Diner mug, you can pretend you really are in Stars Hollow. Bonus points if you're also having a big stack of pancakes!

Etsy

Gilmore Iced Coffee Glass Cup

If you're more of an iced coffee fan, even in the winter (I wonder what Luke would have to say about that?), grab a glass with a super cute design. Not only do I love that Rory and Lorelai are featured in the design, but the color palette is beautiful, too!

Maisonette

Gina White Poodle

Getting your little into the Gilmore Girls spirit? They definitely need a lovable stuffed dog. Again I say, "Oy with the poodles already!"

Handker Bandanas

Colorful Bandana

For another low-key nod to the ultimate BFF's, grab a bandana in your favorite color (like this one that uses untreated, non-GMO cotton!). In true Y2K fashion, Sookie and Lorelai wear bandanas throughout the show, so this is a super fun way to incorporate their style into your own closet this winter.

Etsy

Dragonfly Necklace

A delicate dragonfly necklace is a beautiful layering piece that will add summer cheer to the dreariest of winter days and remind you of Dragonfly Inn at the same time. The fact that dragonflies represent new beginnings is just the cherry on top.

Etsy

Gilmore Girl Eras Shirt

Have you been binging Gilmore Girls during the day and watching Eras Tour TikTok livestreams at night? This T-shirt has your name written all over it. My personal favorite detail is that Kirk is in the debut square.

Etsy

Stars Hollow Christmas Festival Sweatshirt

There's nothing like layering a turtleneck, a crewneck, and a bunch of jewelry for a trip to your corner coffee shop, so swap your go-to crewneck for this festive Stars Hollow one! The gazebo is instantly recognizable for Gilmore Girls fans and just looking at the design makes me want to say, "I smell snow."

Walmart

Gilmore Girls: Complete Series Collection

One of my favorite Christmas presents in recent years was the full Gilmore Girls DVD set. This 42-disc DVD set has every single episode and even more hours of unaired clips, behind the scenes features, and episode commentaries. I'm geeking out just thinking about it.

Amazon

Gilmore Girls: The Official Cookbook

Gilmore Girls recipes are always delicious, and always pretty easy (after all, Lorelai and Rory basically only eat takeout and Luke's!). The official cookbook will let you put your own spin on the food you seen onscreen, and then you can have a truly meta experience by eating your meal while you watch the Gilmores eat theirs.

Amazon

Gilmore Girls: Trivia Deck and Episode Guide

Tried-and-true Gilmore Girls fans will love diving into this trivia book. Because this game (which features 200 questions) has an 88-page episode guide and goes through every. Single. Episode. Worth it!

Amazon

Gilmore Girls: At Home in Stars Hollow

TBH, I think kids books are great for book lovers of any age. The art and simple storytelling really get my creative juices flowing. At Home In Stars Hollow will make you (or a family member or friend) love Gilmore Girls in a whole new way!

Cande Craft Company

Stars Hollow Scented Candle

This all-natural soy candle has every scent a Gilmore Girls fan will love: coffee, sweet cream, and vanilla. It's cozy and balances sweet and bitter in a really intoxicating way.

Amazon

Lorelai and Rory Gilmore Plush

Okay, I'll be honest. I want these plushes for myself! The design is a hilarious nod to the season one episode "The Lorelais' First Day At Chilton" and even features a tiny coffee mug and tiny book!

Rock Em Socks

Gilmore Girls Socks

Now that we're in knee-high boot season (which I FINALLY bought), I like to wear super fun, colorful, and chaotic socks. Grab a pack of Gilmore Girls socks to take some Stars Hollow magic with you no matter where you go.

Etsy

Gilmore Girls Themed Blind Date with a Book

For this bookish blind date, you'll receive a Rory-themed read, a tea bag, a bookmark, and stickers. You really can't go wrong.

Favorite Child

Stars Hollow Books Tote Bag

Carrying your favorite books in a tote bag with the Stars Hollow Books logo feels like it's meant to be.

Amazon

Have I Told You This Already?: Stories I Don't Want to Forget to Remember

Lauren Graham's collection of essays will give you a glimpse behind the curtain as she offers thoughtful stories about life, aging, and the industry.

Which gifts from this Gilmore Girls gift guide will you be buying for your friends (or yourself)? Let us know in the comments!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated.

gilmore girlsshoppingfashionhomepop cultureentertainmentgift guide

Angelina Jolie Finally Opened Up About Her "Extremely Private" Kids & Motherhood

Angelina Jolie has always been mother — but she's also a literal mother to six kids whom she clearly cares about fiercely. Since she first adopted Zahara, Maddox, and Pax to giving birth to Vivienne and Knox, it's always been evident that her children are her entire world. While she rarely talks about her children (especially given her highly contested divorce at the moment), Angelina shared a little slice of her feelings on motherhood, insights on her children, and more with Good Morning America.

Here's what Angelina Jolie had to say about her kids — including which one of them is the most private!

www.youtube.com

- YouTube

Angelina opened up about her feelings for her family while chatting about her new movie Maria with Good Morning Americaon November 21, 2024. Host Michael Strahan asked Angie about if there's anything she loves as much as her character loves singing, and she replied that it's her "motherhood."

"It’s my happiness. You can take everything else away from me," she said. "I could — nothing else matters."

When asked about her sons' involvement in Maria, Angelina explained that despite their involvement behind the scenes, they're very uninterested in a life in the spotlight. She said, "None of my children want to be in front of the camera. They're quite private."

Angelina elaborated, "Shiloh's extremely private. They weren't born with privacy, so I hope they can have that."

This interview comes after Angelina and Knox attended the Governor's Awards with her on November 18, 2024. His rare appearance shocked so many — including Brad. Daily Mail reported that Pitt found the timing "suspicious."

The source said, "'She is trying to get under his skin after his recent win and using Knox to do so is odd. Knox wants nothing to do with Hollywood and has no communication with Brad."

Despite the weirdness, the source also said, "He [Brad] believes that, in time, his children will come back into his life."

How many kids does Angelina Jolie have?

Angelina Jolie has six children. She adopted Zahara, Maddox, and Pax, and later gave birth to Vivienne and Shiloh. She shares her children with Brad Pitt, most of whom aren't on good terms with him at the moment.

Looking for more celebrity news? Be sure to follow us on Facebook so you never miss a thing!

celebritiesentertainmentcelebrity news

Holiday Gifting Made Easy with These 41 'EveryGirl' Essentials

The 'EveryGirl' is the sort of girl who loves the simple, classic, and essential. She loves timeless silhouettes, effortless style, and laid-back elegance. Some love their accessories, some love trying new flavors, and some are all about fashion finds. We've rounded up the top 41 essentials that you need to buy this year for the EveryGirl on your gift list (including yourself).

Thanks for reading about our favorite finds from across the internet! FYI: We participate in affiliate programs and may get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

This Gorgeous Gold Pendant Is a Staple

Amazon

This stunning pendant can be worn and styled all the time with everything in anyone's closet. The necklace is a classic piece that's effortless and easy and offers a little elegance to any 'fit.

See it on Amazon

A Cleanser Made With Natural Ingredients

Amazon

TikTok users have raved about this cleanser infused with kale and green tea. It helps remove toxins from your skin's surface and pores. Thanks to its gentle formula, it's safe to use with any skin type and can remove makeup at the end of the day.

See it on Amazon

You Can Style These Flats With Anything

Amazon

Any EveryGirl would be thrilled to be gifted these beautiful flats. The colors are neutral, the shape is elegant, and the soles are comfortable enough that they'll enjoy wearing them all day.

See it on Amazon

Finish Any Meal With a Drizzle of This Oil

Amazon

This incredible, smooth, flavorful Graza olive oil is a wonderful way to top off all your favorite meals. The EveryGirl in your life who loves to cook and try new recipes is going to love this oil.

See it on Amazon

This Electric Kettle Is a Stylish Essential

Amazon

Brew up tea, coffee, and other delicious warm drinks with this electric kettle. The kettle heats quickly, holds temperatures for hours at a time, and helps you to relax and unwind at the end of a long day.

See it on Amazon

This Scrub Is a Dream for Their Skin

Amazon

This salt scrub works to gently but deeply exfoliate, helping to remove dead and dry skin while leaving the skin soft and hydrated after every use. And it smells fantastic, too, which is always a good thing.

See it on Amazon

Get a Clean, Fresh Face WIth These Starface Patches

Amazon

The famous Starface patches are hydrocolloid-based, helping to soothe redness, dry out breakouts, and even prevent future breakouts. Pop one on overnight and watch it go to work.

See it on Amazon

This Bathtub Tray Helps Them Relax

Amazon

Give the gift of relaxation with this bathtub tray. The tray has plenty of space and helpful holders for all the bathtime essentials, from glasses to phones to your favorite book and candle.

See it on Amazon

This Chunky Choker Is a Bold Spin on a Classic

Amazon

This beautiful chunky choker is something entirely unexpected, offering something just a little different and exciting to any outfit. The necklace is timeless, bold, and so fun to style.

See it on Amazon

These Hair Clips Won't Mess Up Your Style

Amazon

You've heard about the no-bend hair clips, but these clips are even more exciting than the typical options. Your EveryGirl is going to love having these on hand for the pre-party prep.

See it on Amazon

This Phone Case Is Classic and Simple

Amazon

This protective case is a classic tortoiseshell design that's always in style. The case is rated to protect from short drops so you don't have to worry about your precious, and pricey, phone being destroyed.

See it on Amazon

This Stumptown Coffee Is a Winner

Amazon

EveryGirls love morning drinks, whether it's coffee, matcha, or something else entirely. This Stumptown coffee was made for the EveryGirl who can't get enough of the delicious, caffeine-packed morning brew.

See it on Amazon

This Beautiful Rug Brings a Room Together

Amazon

Tie their favorite room together with this gorgeous rug. The fabric is durable and thick but also manages to be soft enough for your feet. This rug won't show dirt or stains easily, which makes it a total win.

See it on Amazon

This Pore Cleaning Toner Works Hard

Amazon

Give the gift of clean and clear skin with this brilliant toner. This product is gentle but super effective, clearing out pores and leaving skin feeling and looking fresh, bright, and totally clean.

See it on Amazon

This Nylon Bag Is an Affordable Version of the Viral Sensation

Amazon

Have you seen the much pricier viral crescent bag? This bag is just as good, incredibly high-quality, super stylish, and it's a fraction of the cost. It's essential for the casual EveryGirl who loves fashion.

See it on Amazon

This Cream Offers Deep Hydration

Amazon

The famous Tatcha cream gives your skin incredible hydration that feels lightweight and won't leave skin greasy. The cream is made to replenish ceramides, protecting the skin as it smoothes.

See it on Amazon

The Breville Espresso Machine Was Made for Coffee Lovers

Amazon

This is a major gift, but it's perfect for the coffee-obsessed EveryGirl on your list. The machine is easy to use and creates delicious, smooth shots of espresso and foamy lattes or cappuccinos.

See it on Amazon

This Body Wash Smells Fantastic

Amazon

Body wash might seem like a strange gift, but this Salt & Stone wash is definitely on your EveryGirl's wishlist. The fantastically-scented product is paraben-, sulfate-, and dye-free for gentle cleansing.

See it on Amazon

This Square Neck Top Is a Classic

Amazon

This top can be styled with all your favorite bottoms, from jeans to skirts. EveryGirls will love that this top is a beautiful mix of comfort and elegance, making the perfect addition to any wardrobe.

See it on Amazon

This Poster Adds Joy to Any Space

Amazon

Bring joy to your EveryGirl with this brilliant poster. This print is fun, bright, and made to remind you of the joy and beauty of every day. Add a frame to it for a really lovely, thoughtful gift.

See it on Amazon

This Matcha Powder Is Delicious and Smooth

Amazon

Gift your EveryGirl a tasty cup of matcha every morning with this Chamberlain powder. Help them save a little money and cultivate an intentional, meaningful morning routine every day.

See it on Amazon

Say Goodbye to Pores With This Foundation

Amazon

This powder foundation is a brilliant way to get an even skin tone and texture, helping to blur pores and prevent settling into fine lines and wrinkles. It's a must-have for the EveryGirl who prefers minimal makeup looks.

See it on Amazon

This Makeup Bag Is Fun and Spacious

Amazon

They can store all their favorite minimal makeup products in this beautiful bag. The spacious case is perfect for traveling with the double liner made to protect from spills or breaks inside.

See it on Amazon

These Loafers Are Essential

Amazon

Amazon Essentials knocked it out of the park with these loafers. The soft, flexible shoes are great for the office or for dressing up those more informal outfits. Choose from a handful of gorgeous, neutral colors.

See it on Amazon

This Concealer Is Professional-Quality

Amazon

This lightweight, creamy concealer is a long-wearing, crease-resistant formula made to give plenty of coverage without feeling heavy or cakey. It's a great buy for the makeup lover on your list.

See it on Amazon

Your EveryGirl Will Love This Highlighter Set

Amazon

These highlighters are all over TikTok. Not only do these give you a smooth mark across the page, but they come in a gorgeous set of colors that are neutral and different in the best way.

See it on Amazon

This Ribbed Top Is a Classic Style

Amazon

This ribbed crop top is long-sleeved for something a little different than what your EveryGirl usually wears. Choose from a handful of colors ranging from neutrals to bold, bright neons.

See it on Amazon

This Tote Bag Is So Much Fun

Amazon

You might not consider corduroy to be a good material for a tote bag, but this one proves just how great it is. The smiley face bag is durable and spacious, making it a great buy for the EveryGirl in your life.

See it on Amazon

This Pour-Over Maker Is Easy to Use

Amazon

This beautiful pour-over setup from OXO is simple to use and easy to take with you when you travel. The neutral colors and the sturdy, dishwasher-safe body make it a kitchen staple.

See it on Amazon

These Prints Add a Pop of Color

Amazon

Bring on the color with this gorgeous set of travel prints. Those who love to travel will love decorating their homes with these beautiful, bright, and eye-catching prints of major cities.

See it on Amazon

This Oversized Tee Is Trendy and Classic

Amazon

It might sound odd to say this shirt can be both trendy and classic, but it's true. The oversized look is in right now, but this casual graphic tee will remain in style no matter how much fashion changes.

See it on Amazon

This Cottagecore Comforter Set Makes Sleeping a Dream

Amazon

Your EveryGirl is going to love this stunning cottagecore set. The comforter is cozy, soft, and not too heavy. The style is elegant and adds just a touch of vintage to their home decor.

See it on Amazon

Layer Up With This Beautiful Necklace Stack

Amazon

This delicate chain stack is an easy way to embrace the layered look that the whole world can't stop talking about. These gorgeous gold chains are affordable and hypoallergenic for sensitive skin.

See it on Amazon

This Loungewear Set Is Slimming

Amazon

If your EveryGirl loves to lounge, this beautiful set is a must. This loungewear set is super comfortable and makes you look incredibly cool, even when you're just lying on the couch.

See it on Amazon

This Oversized Tee Is Always a Good Idea

Amazon

Keep your EveryGirl cool and comfortable in this oversized tee. Whether they wear it to work out or style it with a pair of bike shorts, this top is always a good idea for every body type.

See it on Amazon

This Set of Sheets Is Made to Last

Amazon

The EveryGirl enjoys practical gifts, which is what makes this set of sheets a great option. These are durable, designed to hold up to years of use, and they're incredibly comfy and breathable.

See it on Amazon

Enjoy a Peel Without Any Irritation With This Mask

Amazon

This Bliss jelly peel is a non-abrasive cleanser that nourishes and hydrates your skin without damaging it. The vegan and cruelty-free product smooths your skin without causing irritation.

See it on Amazon

This Large Tote Has All the Space You Need

Amazon

Your EveryGirl won't have to worry about running out of space with this canvas tote. The reinforced bottom makes it durable and sturdy, and all the pockets give you storage for days.

See it on Amazon

Keep Them Warm in This Oversized Cardigan

Amazon

This cardigan is one of those pieces that always looks good, no matter what you add it to. They'll reach for this sweater every day and think of you lovingly as they get warm and cozy.

See it on Amazon

This Clock Is Timeless

Amazon

Help your EveryGirl to nail their home style with this beautiful, timeless timepiece. This wall clock is gorgeous, understated, and the sort of elegant piece that's going to look amazing in their home office.

See it on Amazon

This Mockneck Sweater Is So Stylish

Amazon

The oversized fit of this sweater means it's not just stylish but also comfortable. There's plenty of room in this sweater, and the checkered pattern keeps it fun and different from anything else in your EveryGirl's wardrobe.

See it on Amazon