How to Nail Red Eyeshadow Looks Like a Boss

A lot of us are guilty of sticking with ‘safe’ looks. You know what we mean: a classic winged eye with a little bit of brown eyeshadow and some cute falsies. Add a pop of shimmer to the brow bone and voila, you’ve got yourself a safe style that can be recycled again and again.

But it’s time to put an end to this habit (for now at least). With so many bold ‘n’ bright eyeshadow palettes gracing the market (Lime Crime, we’re looking at you), beauty brands everywhere have us wanting to push the boat out. And what better way to begin a new beauty chapter than by opting for a sultry and seductive red?

This big change can be a little overwhelming. We too were a bit lost with where to begin, which is why we did some extensive research on the best red eyeshadow looks - as well as put together a guide to applying eyeshadow. So, if you’re struggling with how to wear red eyeshadow like a boss then have a little browse below for some serious inspiration.

1. Mattified

If you’re not feeling the glitz ‘n’ glam vibe then stick to what you know with a mattified finish. This understated look can be worn both day and night for results that keep serving serious sass.

2. Graphic eye

Elevate your graphic liner with a pop of red eyeshadow to heat things up a little more. Taking your style from plain to poppin’ in a matter of seconds, this look can be easily achieved and is pretty damn epic.

3. Accessorise

Okay, so you might not have any spare gold stars lying around but you can still create larger-than-life looks with face gems and glitter. We recommend this red-hot look for your next summer festival.

4. Line it

Instead of using a traditional liquid liner, try using an ultra-fine, damp liner brush to apply your red eyeshadow, carefully smudging out for a soft glam look.

5. Keep it subtle

We get it, you’ve already done enough by ditching your trusty muted colours for a pop of red, so a dramatic smokey eye isn’t really what you’re after. Luckily, this seductive hue works well as a subtle add-on, rather than the main feature. Smudge a base colour around your peepers and lightly blend out for a lowkey look that doesn’t let you down.

6. Make it bold

Equally, if you’re not one to do things in half measures then we encourage you to go all the way with your red smokey eye. Make that sucker a full-on glam eye with a cut crease, lots of pigment and lashings of shimmer. Don't forget to prime your eyelids first to ensure a long-lasting look!

7. Red Glitter Eyeshadow

Passing as both a festive look and a vampy glam evening style, red shimmer helps to step up your smokey eye with a hint of pizzazz.

8. Halo

If your blending skills are second to none then give this legendary halo look a try. The important part is to have a lighter centre that illuminates your eyes.

9. Undereye liner

Dramatise your eyes with burst of red. Simply smudge a vibrant red pigment along your lower lash line and blend with your eyeliner for a professional finish.

Top 5 red eyeshadows:

Inglot Cosmetics Freedom System Eyeshadow

£2.92 £5.31 (46% off)Add to Bag

L.A. Girl Shockwave Neon Liner

£8.81Sold out

theBalm Lid-Quid Sparkling Liquid Eyeshadow

£12.39 £14.00 (12% off)Add to Bag

Stila Shimmer & Glow Eyeshadow

£23.85Add to Bag

Stila Trifecta Metallica Eye, Lip & Cheek Stick

£23.45Add to Bag

Sleek MakeUP i-Divine Eyeshadow Palette

£7.85 £9.99 (22% off)Add to Bag

Not 100% sure how to nail the perfect smokey eye? Don’t worry, we’ve got you. Check out our guide on How to Achieve the Perfect Smokey Eye, here at Cosmetify.