Blue Eyeshadow: How to wear SS18’s boldest beauty trend

The blue eyeshadow trend ruled 2017. In 2018 it’s bolder and edgier. But how wearable is it in real life?

Marni debuted graphic blocks of colour for their spring/summer beauty look (AFP)

Last year was fundamental in bringing back blue makeup and it looks like it’s here to stay for 2018.

From memories of nightmarish dance recitals to Bowie’s “Life on Mars?” music video, blue eyeshadow has gained a bad rap over the years but thanks to a wave of designer’s adopting the trend on the runway it has finally seen a coming of age.

So much so that even Kim Kardashian West has given it a go.

Attending a recent event in Beverly Hills to celebrate the launch of KKW Beauty’s new palette with Mario Dedivanovic – her long-time makeup artist – the reality star debuted their primary blue eyeshadow, titled Libra, with a blurred cat eye.

And therein lies the new way to wear blue. For 2018, it’s time to forget blending and wear yours in bold shapes for a seriously graphic gaze.

A look seen at a host of spring/summer shows, legendary makeup artist Pat McGrath used graphic blocks of colour at Marni, while Tom Pecheux added a swoosh of metallic blue across model’s lids at Chanel.

Marc Jacobs Beauty, Eye-Conic Longwear Eyeshadow Palette in Smartorial, £39, Net-a-Porter

Similarly, in keeping with the pirate theme of its show, House of Holland used liquid liner in shades of cobalt for a deliberate wave-like effect.

But, just how wearable is this trend in real life?

Eye Paint in Solomon Islands, £19, Nars Cosmetics

While it does require a little gumption, a standout blue wash is undeniably the only colour to wear on your eyes this season and the good news is, this new way to wear it requires very little skill.

For best results, we suggest opting for a creamy kohl liner or gel and using your finger to smear the product across the lid. Try not to be too perfect with your application either because if the spring runways are anything to go by, it’s cool to draw outside the lines.

Dior, Diorshow Mascara in Blue, £27, Selfridges

If you want to err on the safe side though try experimenting with a blue mascara first and slowly up the ante.

NYX, Vivid Brights Eyeliner, £6, Cult Beauty

Jouer Cosmetics, Creme Eyeshadow Crayon, £15, Cult Beauty