Why blend 12 different shadow shades when one can get the job done? Enter monochrome makeup beauts that make life so much easier. The concept is simple really—ditch heavy swaths of multiple eyeshadows to create softer looks. However, less doesn’t necessarily mean bore. The key to keeping it haute with different variations; a sprinkle of gold shimmer on the centre of lids, experimenting with different textures and layering with varying intensity. The possibilities are endless.
Without further ado, here are some gorgeous eyeshadow singles that will help you nail the monotone trend to a T.
1. NYX Professional Makeup Prismatic Eye Shadow
Who says metallic hues are only limited to golds and silvers? The 18 shades of this eye topper offer a glistening texture of colour and dries to a long-lasting finish. Coat your whole lids with a single hue from lash line to crease, or just intensify the outer edges of your lids for a bold gradient look. We love the dreamy Mermaid hue (a metallic Aquamarine) and Girl Talk (a metallic Peach that doubles as a highlighter).
2. Wet n Wild Color Icon Eyeshadow Glitter Single
This is the smoky eye, Jenny Humphrey would wear in 2018! However, unlike other flaky formulas, this one stays puts for hours (Re: Aloe and Coconut oil cream base that moisturizes your skin, never over dries and applies smoothly for a uniform finish). The big sparkly texture amps up the glam factor real fast—bonafide rocker chic.
3. Kiko Milano High Pigment Wet And Dry Eyeshadow
Kiko Milano’s Eyeshadows are already some of the most long-lasting in the game. The mattes are velvety, the metallics are gorgeous and the satins are the perfect way to pull an entire look together. The nourishing formula containing Vitamin E, Cottonseed Oil and Chamomile Extracts makes it a keeper. For a color that pops, apply the eyeshadow with a wet brush. PS: They are formulated without parabens.
4. Nicka K Radiant Liquid Eye Shadow
This one has enough glitter and shine to last you all year. The highly pigmented shimmery formula glides on like butter and dries in seconds. Voila, totally intentional disco ball look— minus any ugly smudges and fall-outs. If you want to make it bolder, just layer it on until you get the drama you want. Love Rose Gold? The Polaris Peach is for you.
5. PAC Eyeshadow
Put simply, the formula is legit beautiful. It won’t fade the minute it touches your skin or look chalky. Instead, it will add dimension and intense color to lids; and while the formula itself is dry, the ultra-matte texture blends into a creamier finish. We are all fans of the soft Lilac shade (41) that’s all over Instagram this season. Did we mention, they are crazy affordable?
6. L'Oreal Paris Color Riche Le Stylo Smoky Eye Shadow
Eye shadow sticks are majorly versatile, easy to use and formulated for super long wear. To top it all, this one also comes with a built-in kabuki brush for easy and even blending—perfect for creating those smoked-out, sultry bedroom eyes. Swipe it generously across your lids and blend outwards for a flawless finish. We recommend Delicate Wood (a decadent Cocoa hue) that works for every occasion.
7. Coloressence Single Pearl Eye Shadow
Meet the cashmere of eye shadows. These are the so soft that they melt onto your lids; except that the highly pigmented color looks exactly on your eyes as they look in the pot. Even better? The delicious sorbet hues aka Pink Carnation and Tuscan Gold, that remind you of your favourite gelato. Count us in.
8. Miss Claire Single Eyeshadow
With a mix of matte and sparkly hues, this one gets our stamp of approval for the insane color pay-off and velvety, luxurious feel. The buildable coverage allows you to make your look as subtle or intense as you'd like. Not to mention, we are super impressed with the shade range, that is a perfect fit for just every complexion. Enough said.