Gold Eyeshadow: How to Work This Festive Trend

Have you ever wondered whether you could rock gold eyeshadow? Or are you already a seasoned pro at applying the shiny shade? It’s no secret that everyone loves a bit of gold – whether it comes in jewellery, crystal or makeup form, there’s no denying that it’s one of the most eye-pleasing hues.  

It is the most versatile eyeshadow shade that exists. Gold eyeshadow can be sported as heavily or subtly as you like – meaning it’ll suit every skin tone and eye colour – and can be applied to make a statement or add a light iridescence to the lid. Although gold may be one of the easiest eye hues to freestyle with, we’ve put together a guide on application, shade-tailoring and the best gold eyeshadow products in the business.  

The best gold eyeshadow

Amp up the glam with some gilded glitter, thanks to the help of these golden eye shades. They are all buildable, making them great for everyday and special occasions.  

Our Ombre 4-Colour Eyeshadow Palette has four shades of glitter gold eye makeup eyeshadow. The 04 brown sugar gradation comes with yellow-gold eyeshadow, a warm tone, and other shades of brown. 

The 07 bronze gradation also contains yellow-gold eyeshadow but with softer and lighter brown tones.

For something a little less intense, try a rose gold hue instead. Because rose gold is the happy medium between gold and silver, it’s also guaranteed to suit all skin undertones. So whether you tap it into your lids with your fingertips or go for a blending brush design that’s a tad more intricate. The 08 amber gradation and 10 maple gradation shades come with more rose gold eyeshadow.

How to apply gold eye shadow  

“Gold eyeshadow is playful and can be used in different ways, depending on colour tone and texture,” says award-winning make-up artist Lan Nguyen-Grealis. “However, gold can sometimes look a bit green, so make sure you opt for a true gold when trying to achieve this look, as it’ll appear more yellow and rich,” she continues. 

When it comes to strong metallics, Lan advises applying them in a solid block of colour. “Use the applicator provided in the palette or dab product on with your finger for easy application. Eyeshadow can always be built up, so it’s best to take a ‘less is more’ approach when applying. Always remember not to rub the product, as this can cause the product to break off and crumble.” 

And when it comes to glitter? “Depending on the size of the glitter particles, you can apply it with a dab of eyelash or glitter glue. However, always apply it to the centre of the eyelid and avoid the eyelid creases for a cleaner look,” says Lan. If you want a subtle glitter effect, you can also place it along the lash line or just in the inner corner for a hint of sparkly shimmer.  

Remember to prep your skin carefully before putting on any makeup products. Moisture with a hydrating serum, and apply a primer like Instant Smooth Perfecting Touch to fill in and smooth away the appearance of fine lines around your eyes. You can also use SOS Primer in mattifying to reduce the shine in your eyelids. 

Gold Eyeshadow FAQs 

What is the best gold eyeshadow?  

There is no ‘best gold eyeshadow’ specifically, as the ‘best’ product will always depend on the individual. In some cases, if a packed-on glitter gold look is wanted, it might be better to stick to actual gold glitter particles instead of a solid shadow. 

If you can’t choose between silver or gold, you can always go for a ‘champagne’ or rose gold hue, which is a perfect mix of the two.  

Who suits sold eyeshadow?

Because most brown eyes have a yellow or golden undertone, gold eyeshadow is the ideal complimentary shade. Darker golds, coppers, bronze, rose gold, and shimmery golden shades will all look great on anyone with brown eyes. 

Is gold eyeshadow good for blue eyes?  

Gold is also a perfect complementary shade for anyone with gorgeous bright baby blues. In particular, those with blue eyes may want to choose warmer gold tones with yellow or orange tinges, as these tend to bring out the natural eye colour even more and make the eye whites appear brighter. 

Does gold eyeshadow bring out green eyes?  

When choosing a gold eyeshadow shade for green eyes, go for a red undertone. Rose gold, for example, is great at making green eyes gleam, as it mimics the natural golden/brown flecks in the eye. 

What colour lipstick goes best with gold eyeshadow?

Around Christmas, a common but unlikely beautiful pairing is gold eyeshadow with bold red lipstick. Try Joli Rouge in cherry red or joli rouge. If you prefer a more neutral look, you can’t go wrong with a nude lipstick or a light gloss. Try Intense Natural Lip Perfector for a rosy nude shade of gloss.

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