This Is The Best Way To Wear Glitter Eyeshadow This Party Season (And The Best Products To Use)

Festive season is upon us, which means one thing: glitter is a go. Whether worn on a skirt or a shoe, sparkles have a way of amping up any look on any given occasion, but there's no denying its transformative power on the eyes. In fact, this week alone searches for 'glitter eyeshadows' have risen by 4,000%, meaning we are all hunting down the very best products (and how to use them correctly) before our social calendars reach peak party overdrive.

While the word glitter sparks joy for some, you wouldn't be blamed for recoiling either. You see, as dazzling as a glittery make-up is, it doesn't necessarily allow for easy application – there's fall out and spilling the contents all over your carpet to think about. That said, thankfully glittery make-up formulas have come on in leaps and bounds in recent years, offering up everything from liquid to stick and foiled formulas that make the job of applying it a doddle.

While each glitter offering has its benefits, according to Jorge Balzaretti, senior make-up artist & product development for Suqqu, it's pressed glitters that reign supreme thanks to their ease of use and minimal mess. 'They’re perfect for a dense, one-swipe look—just press and go,' Balzaretti says. Loose glitters provide stunning, high-impact results but they require patience and technique. On the other hand, Balzaretti deems glitter sticks a 'lifesaver when you're short on time and want to avoid a glitter explosion.' For simplicity, look to eyeshadow pencils and gel eyeliners with shimmer which are subtle but effective when adding a touch of sparkle to brighten eyes effortlessly.

How to apply glitter eyeshadow

With your chosen products, all that's left to master is the how. Balzaretti explains, 'The key to getting it right every time is a solid base. The secret? A high-quality eyeshadow primer like the Suqqu Eye Enhancing Primer, £22. Its soft tacky texture creates the perfect grip for glitter.' For the best finish, Balzaretti recommends tapping on a thin layer of primer before pressing the glitter onto your lid with your fingertip or a flat synthetic brush instead of sweeping, this will give you better control, precision and will keeps fallout at bay by locking things into place.

Glitter eyeshadow for hooded eyes

Everyone can enjoy a touch of shimmer to the eyes, you just need the right tricks. Those of us with hooded eyes, for example, should concentrate shimmers at the centre of the lid and slightly above your natural eye crease. 'This way, even when your eyes are open, the glitter pops without getting lost in the fold. Stick to finer glitter particles or metallic shades that give a reflective effect without overwhelming the eye shape. And one more thing—keep it light on the inner and outer corners to avoid looking too heavy,' Balzaretti says.

Grown-up glitter rules

There's no denying there is an art to make-up of a glittery nature, apply too much and you run the risk of things looking OTT or plain messy. 'The grown-up way to rock glitter on your eyes is all about being strategic and subtle—less is more, but it still packs a punch,' adds Balzaretti. 'Think of glitter as an accent, not the main act. A pop of glitter in the centre of your lids or a sleek, thin line along the lash line adds a modern, polished touch.' Keep things clean-looking with neutral tones like champagne or gold, and keep the rest of your make-up super fresh and minimal, this allows the glitter to channel its main character energy.

For a monochromatic look that says 'festive', Balzaretti recommends using glitter beyond the lids. Take a soft, finely-milled glitter eyeshadow and dust it over cheekbones for a celestial glow, or tap a little onto the centre of your lips for a multidimensional pout. Tie it all together by lacing your collarbones and shoulders with a brushing of shimmer, too.

Shop: The Best Glitter Eyeshadows 2024

Sameeha Shaikh is Grazia's beauty writer, working across all categories to bring you insights on the latest trends, industry news and the products you need to know about, viral or not (most probably viral).