Liquid eyeshadows are the answer to all your eyeshadow misgivings, according to beauty columnist Sali Hughes. One neutral, long-lasting shadow gives the impression of a person with time, skill and polish, when in fact its effort:effect ratio is a joke.
To apply, daub onto the middle of your lid from lash line to socket, avoiding the inner and outer corners initially. Then take a clean fluffy shadow-blending brush and buff in a windscreen wiper motion to spread across to the corners and soften any hard lines.
Mac's Multi Sculpt Matte Liquid Eye and Face Colour
Mac's Multi Sculpt Matte Liquid Eye and Face Colour (£22) is a brilliant eyeshadow, though not a very good face colour as it dries before blending on cheeks. On eyelids, it's a godsend, especially in warmer weather. Shades are muted and foolproof: Buffed Up is a dusty, cool-ish pinky brown that goes with every lipstick and outfit; Stone is a cool, mousey taupe mimicking shadow; Brulé is a classic beige based on Mac's bestselling powder shadow. Any of the 14 shades are winners.
Make Up By Mario's Master Mattes Long-Wear Cream Eyeshadow
Make Up By Mario's Master Mattes Long-Wear Cream Eyeshadow (£25) lasts just as long with a suede-like finish that works as a base for powder shadows. Mauve is Hughes' most worn, but there are no duds.
REM Beauty's Starlet Liquid Eyeshadow Matte
REM Beauty's Starlet Liquid Eyeshadow Matte (£15) offers a waterproof liquid lid colour in boring, bland nudes that prove indispensable. Shades like Ty and Ily carry enough pigment for deep skin tones, while Nvm is a warm, peachy camel.
Hughes expresses frustration at the lack of high-street equivalents, noting most affordable long-wearing options have a metallic finish that won't flatter older eyes.
