One of the newest trends in makeup effects is all about the eyes. Over the years we’ve seen
everything imaginable in eye color application: from the lashes to brow solid block of color to the three-color contouring look.
These days, the newest look in eye color application involves application of the eye color in a bold line along the upper lid, or
at least along the half of the upper lid closest to the lashes. The goal is to create an enhancement of the upper lid to make the
eyes appear brighter and more open.
The applied color may be left cleanly defined, as seen here with actress Keesha Sharp or singer
Mariah Carey, or it may be softly smudged and blended upward. The technique is sometimes modified to include a thin line of color
along the lash edge of the lower lid as well.
Keeping the effect soft is generally the desired look, therefore the color is often blended using a brush to give an “airbrushed”
effect. This works especially well on bold colors and effects to provide a dramatic finish to an otherwise boring technique. In fact,
take a look here at actress/singer Jennifer Hudson,
whose frosty blue eye shadow is softened into a halo around the eyes to enhance
the warmth and richness of her ebon eyes and avoid the 1970s “Disco Diva” look.
All in all, today’s cosmetic trends are simple and pretty much based in common sense. Soft and
subtle looks are preferred over heavily made-up finishes. Matte foundations are ideal for blending away lines and wrinkles among aging
women. Natural and neutral colors are ideal for enhancing the individual’s natural beauty.
