A monochromatic eye look uses one colour or different tones within the same colour family. You can keep it simple with one shade, add depth with a lighter and deeper version, or compare finishes for another variation.
Choose a Colour Family
Start with a colour you enjoy, rather than a rule assigning colours to your eye colour. Brown, rose, purple, blue or green can each be a starting point. Check the actual shades and finishes in your products; you do not need a large palette to try a single-colour look.
Step 1: Prepare Your Lids
Follow your chosen eye products' directions. If using primer, apply it as instructed. It does not automatically stop colours blending together or guarantee unchanged wear.
Step 2: Place Your Main Colour
Apply a little colour to the lid and assess the effect with your eyes relaxed and open. For a one-shade look, you can stop after softening the edges.
Step 3: Add a Lighter Tone If Desired
Choose a lighter tone from the same family if you want more contrast. Place it where the product directions permit, rather than automatically highlighting the inner corner.
Step 4: Build Depth
Use a little deeper colour where you want definition, such as the outer lid. Soften its boundary into the main shade without blending away all the difference.
Step 5: Consider the Finish
A different finish in the same colour family can change the look. Shimmer or metallic effects are optional; a monochromatic design can also use only matte colours.
Step 6: Finish Your Way
Lower-lash colour, liner and mascara are optional. Follow each product's placement and application instructions. You can keep the rest of your makeup tonal too, but your blush does not have to match.
Colour Ideas
- Rose: compare a pale rose lid with a deeper rose outer area.
- Brown: try a light brown wash with a little deeper brown for depth.
- Purple: compare lavender, medium purple and plum-inspired tones.
- Blue: try a lighter blue lid with deeper blue towards the outside.
- Green: explore a light green with deeper olive or forest-inspired colour.
These are suggested colour families, not claims that a particular palette contains the shades or finishes named.
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Explore Colours and Tools
Browse eyeshadow palettes and compare the Blending Eyeshadow Brush and Precision Eyeshadow Brush. Choose products by the colours you want to wear and the application tasks involved.