The key to applying makeup for round eyes is to create the illusion of elongation and definition. This involves strategically using eyeshadow, eyeliner, and other techniques to enhance the eye's natural shape and accentuate specific areas. Here's a breakdown of how to achieve this look:
Understanding the Goal: Elongation
Round eyes tend to appear wider and more open. The aim of makeup application is to counteract this effect by creating the illusion of length and a slightly more almond-shaped eye.
Essential Techniques for Round Eyes:
- Accentuate the Outer and Inner Corners: According to reference material, highlighting these areas can create a more elongated appearance.
- Apply a lighter eyeshadow shade or highlighter to the inner corner of the eye to brighten and draw attention inward.
- Focus deeper, more concentrated eyeshadow shades on the outer corner of the eye. Extend this darker shade slightly outward and upward toward the brow bone to visually lengthen the eye.
- Eyeshadow Contouring: Use a medium shade in the crease to add depth. Blend well to avoid harsh lines.
- Eyeliner:
- Winged Eyeliner: This is your best friend. A well-executed wing visually extends the eye outward. Start thin at the inner corner and gradually thicken the line as you move towards the outer corner, flicking it upward and outward.
- Tightlining: Applying eyeliner to the upper waterline can add definition without making the eyes appear smaller.
- Avoid Completely Lining the Eye: Lining the entire eye, especially with dark eyeliner, can actually make round eyes look rounder. If you prefer to line the lower lash line, use a lighter shade (like brown) and smudge it softly.
- Mascara: Focus mascara application on the outer lashes to further enhance the elongated effect. Apply 2-3 coats to the outer lashes and only one coat to the inner lashes.
- Eyebrows: Well-groomed eyebrows can also contribute to the overall shape and balance of the face. A slightly angled brow can help lift and elongate the eye area.
- Highlighting: Apply a small amount of highlighter just below the brow bone to lift the brow and open up the eye area.
Step-by-Step Example:
- Prime: Apply an eyeshadow primer to create a smooth base and ensure your eyeshadow lasts longer.
- Base Shade: Apply a neutral eyeshadow shade all over the lid.
- Crease Shade: Use a medium shade (e.g., a matte brown) in the crease of your eye. Blend well to create depth.
- Outer Corner Definition: Apply a darker shade (e.g., a dark brown or black) to the outer corner of your eye, extending it slightly outward and upward. Blend carefully to avoid harsh lines.
- Inner Corner Highlight: Dab a light, shimmery shade onto the inner corner of your eye.
- Eyeliner: Apply winged eyeliner, starting thin at the inner corner and gradually thickening it as you move outwards.
- Mascara: Apply mascara to the upper and lower lashes, focusing on the outer lashes.
- Highlight Under Brow Bone: Use a light shade or highlighter under the brow bone to add dimension.
Tips and Considerations:
- Experiment: Not every technique works the same for everyone. Experiment with different eyeshadow colors, eyeliner styles, and mascara application to find what works best for your eye shape and personal preference.
- Blending is Key: Blending is crucial for achieving a seamless and professional look.
- Color Placement: Pay attention to where you place the darker and lighter shades to create the desired effect.
- Consider Eye Size: While these tips generally apply to round eyes, consider the overall size of your eyes as well. If you have smaller round eyes, avoid using overly dark shades, as they can make your eyes appear even smaller.