We all love a good eyeshadow look that's easy to wear, versatile, and flattering. If you're just starting with makeup, or you're looking for a simple yet stunning way to enhance your eyes, then earthy tones are your best friend.
They're neutral, natural, and work with every skin tone and eye color. In this guide, we'll show you some beginner-friendly ways to create gorgeous earthy eyeshadow looks using a variety of simple color combinations. By the end of this, you'll be ready to rock those warm browns, soft taupes, and rich bronzes effortlessly!
Understanding Earthy Tones
Before we dive into specific combinations, let's talk about what we mean by earthy tones. These colors are inspired by the natural world—think shades of brown, beige, terracotta, deep greens, and burnt oranges. These tones are easy to work with because they are subtle, yet rich, giving us plenty of room to experiment while keeping things grounded. Whether you're aiming for a soft, subtle look or something more dramatic, earthy tones can do it all.
Base Shade: The Perfect Transition
Every great eyeshadow look starts with a base shade. This is the color that will set the tone for the rest of your look and act as a smooth base for the other colors to blend into. For beginners, a soft matte beige or light brown works best as a base. It creates a neutral canvas that blends well with other earthy tones and makes the entire look more cohesive. Apply this color all over your eyelid, from your lash line up to your crease, for an even and flawless finish.
Accent Shade: Warm Depth
Next up is the accent shade. This color adds depth to the eyes and makes them appear more dimensional. A warm brown or taupe is a great choice, as it's neither too light nor too dark and complements most skin tones. Apply this shade into your crease to define the eye shape, using a fluffy blending brush to diffuse the color for a soft, natural gradient. If you want a little extra pop, you can also use this shade along your lower lash line to tie the look together.
Highlight Shade: Brighten and Lift
A highlight shade is a must to brighten up the eyes and give them a lifted look. For earthy tones, a subtle shimmer or light gold is perfect for this step. Use this shade on the inner corner of your eyes, on the brow area, and in the center of your eyelid to catch the light. This creates the illusion of larger, more awake eyes and makes your look appear more polished. Just be sure to keep it subtle so it complements the matte and satin shades you've used so far.
Pop of Color: Spice It Up
While earthy tones are already beautiful on their own, you can always add a pop of color to make your look stand out even more. If you want a fun twist on the classic earthy eye, try adding a rich copper, burnt orange, or even a deep green in the outer corner of your eye. These colors blend well with browns and taupes but bring a fresh vibrancy to your look. Apply the color to the outer V of your eye and blend it into the crease for a more dramatic effect. This technique works great for both day and night looks!
Finishing Touches: Mascara and Liner
Once your eyeshadow is all done, the final step is to define your lashes and eyes. Mascara is an absolute must for opening up the eyes and making them appear fuller and more awake. Choose a mascara that gives you volume and length for that bold, beautiful lash look. For eyeliner, stick with a soft brown or bronze for a more natural look, or go with a classic black for added drama. Just line the upper lash line for a simple finish, or add a little to the lower lash line for a more defined look.
Conclusion: Ready to Experiment?
We've covered some easy, beginner-friendly techniques for creating stunning earthy eyeshadow looks, but the best part about using these tones is how versatile they are. You can mix and match different shades and create endless variations based on your mood or the occasion. Whether you're going for something soft and understated or something bold and smoky, earthy tones are the way to go.
Now, it's your turn! Grab your eyeshadow palette and start experimenting with these simple color combinations. The more you play around with these shades, the more confident you'll become in creating your own perfect earthy eye look. Don't forget to share your creations with us—we'd love to see how you bring these looks to life!
