Apparently, eyeshadows are out and it’s not trending anymore. It makes you look older and as someone who has started their career off doing eyeshadow tutorials and pictorials, I want to talk about this trend overall and kind of my preferences, and how my makeup style has changed over the last 2-3 years or so.

As a beauty editor, I feel a pang of concern. Did I miss the memo? Is eyeshadow, the vibrant world of color and shimmer on our eyelids, truly a relic of the past? Being a makeup enthusiast, I adore all makeup, but eyeshadow holds a special place in my heart. It is the first thing in makeup that I started playing with. It’s the product that consistently garners compliments (perhaps from fellow millennials, but compliments nonetheless!).

Forget the days of flawless skin being the sole focus. For over a decade, eyeshadow conquered. It was the makeup world’s rockstar, a canvas for creativity. We reveled in bold colors, Smokey blends, graphic lines, and a sprinkle of glitter. These weren’t just pigments on lids, they were a declaration of fun and a night out on the town. Sure, a bold lip offered a statement, but its reliability was questionable as it tends to smear or smudge a lot. Eyeshadow, however, was a loyal friend. It stayed put, played up our features, and whispered (or maybe shouted), “Let’s party!” Those late-night bonding sessions with friends, music blasting, and the meticulous blending of dark shadows in the corners – those were the memories eyeshadow helped create.

How did we stray so far from this delightful ritual? So, is eyeshadow truly dead? Perhaps a dramatic overhaul is in order. Maybe the statement smokey eye needs a refresh, replaced by softer, more diffused washes of color. But let’s not write its obituary just yet. Eyeshadow can still be a fun, creative way to express ourselves. After all, who can resist the transformative power of a vibrant lid or the playful touch of a sparkly shadow?

Clean Makeup Era

A pang of nostalgia hits as I ponder where the “getting ready” fun has vanished. But as I delve deeper, a different picture emerges. The evolution of “NATURAL” makeup has traversed countless phases across history, with each era contributing its unique interpretation of beauty. 2023 was all about a new version of Natural Makeup and that is the “Clean Makeup Look”.

For avid followers of beauty trends on social media, the clean makeup look has likely inundated their feeds. It’s become a sensation with numerous viral videos showcasing the essence of this trend. For those who may have yet to catch a glimpse of these videos, here’s the lowdown: the clean look revolves around a minimalistic makeup routine, emphasizing clean and radiant skin, well-defined eyebrows, and sleek, polished hair.

Brides (or special occasion clients) often seek a minimalist makeup approach for their big day. Understandably, a focus on elaborate gowns and statement jewelry can shift the desire toward a more understated makeup look. This allows the bride’s natural beauty to shine through while complementing the overall ensemble, creating a cohesive and elegant statement.

Perhaps the bigger factor is a fundamental shift in our lifestyles. Millennials transitioned from classrooms to nightclubs, then to offices where a quick swipe of lipstick or eyeshadow at the desk transformed us for after-work drinks. The post-COVID world, however, is far less rigid. Gone are the days of the 9-to-5 grind. Work and leisure intertwine, blurring the lines between comfy clothes and unchanging makeup. For some, this flexibility is liberating. But for me, it borders on monotonous.

The Future of Eyeshadow:

While the current trends might favor a more pared-down approach, eyeshadow still holds a special place in the makeup world. Here’s why it’s likely to stay relevant:

• Self-Expression: Makeup allows us to play with different versions of ourselves. Eyeshadow offers a vast canvas for creativity, from subtle daytime looks to bold, artistic expressions.
• Niche Communities: Subcultures like goth, drag, and cosplay rely heavily on eyeshadow for dramatic and transformative effects. These communities will continue to push boundaries and inspire new ways to wear eyeshadow.
• Nostalgia Factor: Trends are cyclical. The dramatic smokey eye or a pop of shimmery color might come back in style, just like past trends have done.

Tips for Adapting Your Eyeshadow Look:

• Embrace Multitasking: Look for cream eyeshadows that can double as eyeliners or blend seamlessly with blush for a monochromatic look.
• Master the Wash of Color: Sheer washes of color add a touch of vibrancy without overpowering the “clean girl” aesthetic. Experiment with soft pinks, peaches, or even a touch of lilac.
• Graphic Liners: Get creative with graphic eyeliner shapes. This adds a touch of personality without overwhelming the eyes. Think negative space designs, colorful liners, or classic cat eyes with a modern twist.
• Glitter for Grown-Ups: Glitter doesn’t have to be relegated to teenagers. Opt for a subtle dusting of glitter on the center of the lid or the inner corner of the eye for a touch of sparkle.

The Final Word:

The beauty world is constantly evolving, and eyeshadow trends are no exception. While dramatic applications might be less popular now, there’s still a place for eyeshadow in your makeup routine. Don’t be afraid to experiment, have fun, and find ways to express yourself through eye makeup, whether a subtle wash of color or a touch of playful shimmer.

Pictures Credit: Pexels

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