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Learning how to use an eyeshadow palette is a challenge unto itself, and if we’re going to be completely honest, so is using just one pan or compact. Add in a couple of foiled eyeshadows and the task appears to be completely impossible. Thankfully, the latter is one of those looks that feels way more complicated than it actually is.
As far as we’re concerned, there’s no better occasion than New Year’s Eve to match your eyelids to the New York City ball drop. A little sparkle never hurt anyone, right? Sure, a simple metallic or shimmery eyeshadow would suffice, but the added benefit of a foil effect is that you’re getting dimension that enhances the color payoff and makes it look as though the results are pro-level.
While there are a number of eyeshadow formulas that have that built-in foil effect, you can also create your own with a pre-existing cream or powder one. Simply spray a flat brush with setting spray or lightly spritz with water, dip into your shadow and apply multiple layers to your lid. For premade foil shadows, apply instead with a finger so you’re getting as much product as possible for bold color. Also, don’t be afraid to mix colors, and if you’re sporting a gold foil—the most popular version—experts say a touch of white liner or shadow in the crease will make your look pop even more.
Ready to ring in the New Year and turn heads? Add any of these luminous shades to your foil kit.
Holika Holika.
The buttery texture of this glittery shadow will prevent excess fallout.
LASplash Cosmetics.
A Great Gatsby-inspired palette made up of high impact colors with matte, foil and shimmer finishes.
Makeup Revolution.
All 15 shades in this glitzy palette go on creamy and dry down to a silky powder texture.
Jouer Cosmetics.
This vacay-inspired palette includes matte, foil and shimmer shades you can wear separate or together for a bright and bold finish.
Kat Von D Beauty.
Kat Von D’s limited-edition palette is a romantic blend of romantic, mauve shades that flatter a variety of skin tones.
Tom Ford.
Available in 14 different colors, this water-resistant powder includes micro-glitters and polymers for long-wear use. Swipe on just one layer for a sheer gloss of color or go with multiple for the foil effect.
Hourglass Cosmetics.
Don’t be fooled by the glitter specks. This is actually a cream formula that feels rather weightless and can be built upon without major fallout.
Marc Jacobs Beauty.
If you want the foiled look without abandoning your minimalist style, apply this multiuse limited-edition highlighter on your lids for luminosity.
Touch in Sol.
The combo of a solid color shadow topped with a metallic one means you won’t need any extra steps to create that high-shine foil effect.
Fenty Beauty.
Rihanna is never shy when it comes to wearing and creating high-impact colors, so expect nothing but the best from these brand new shades; whether you use them alone or in combos.
L’Oreal Paris.
A classic metallic shadow that you can apply sparsely, or build with a wet brush for bolder results.
Ulta Beauty.
Silky without feeling greasy, this formula looks like huge chunks of glitter, but is actually creamy and easy to apply.
BH Cosmetics.
From jewel tones to neutrals, this 28-pan palette is for the beauty who wants to not only create the foil effect, but do it with more than a couple colors too.
NYX Cosmetics.
With a jelly-like texture and effortless foil finish, this cream formula delivers rich color in just a few swipes.
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