Hello, lovely people! If you’ve been blessed with hooded eyes (and yes, I said blessed), you’ll know the struggle of eyeshadow disappearing into the abyss and eyeliner playing a game of hide-and-seek. But fear not! As a bridal hair and makeup artist here in the UK, I’ve spent years perfecting techniques to make hooded eyes shine.
1. The Soft Smoky Eye
A classic for a reason! Stick to matte shades to keep things clean and blend upwards slightly above your natural crease.
Tip: Use a transition shade slightly above the crease to create the illusion of more lid space.
2. The Cut Crease Cheat
A full cut crease can be tricky, but a half-cut crease works wonders! Carve out the lid space with concealer to add dimension.
Tip: A shimmery lid shade will brighten and open the eyes.
3. Winged Liner for Days
The trick is to go thin on the inner corner and flick up at the outer corner rather than outwards.
Tip: A gel or felt-tip liner works best for precision.
4. The Invisible Liner Trick
Skip the drama and tightline your upper waterline for that ‘naturally fuller lash’ effect.
Tip: Use a waterproof gel pencil so it doesn’t transfer.
5. Glossy Lids for a Fresh Look
A bit of eye gloss over a neutral base creates a fresh, modern look.
Tip: Use a non-sticky gloss to avoid creasing.
6. Inner Corner Pop
A touch of highlighter in the inner corner brightens up the eyes instantly.
Tip: A champagne or light gold shade suits most skin tones.
7. Reverse Cat-Eye
A trendy and sultry look where the liner focuses on the lower lash line.
Tip: Keep it soft with a smudged kohl pencil.
8. Monochrome Magic
Using the same shade on eyes, cheeks, and lips creates a cohesive, elegant look.
Tip: A peachy pink works beautifully for brides.
9. Floating Liner
A graphic liner that sits above the crease—perfect for hooded eyes!
Tip: Use a fine brush for precision.
10. The ‘No Makeup’ Makeup Look
Soft browns, a bit of mascara, and a nude liner in the waterline work wonders.
Tip: Curl those lashes for a wide-awake look.
11. Glitter Glam
Glitter is always a good idea, especially for a bridal look.
Tip: Use a glitter glue to keep things in place.
12. Smudged & Sexy
A smudged-out kohl pencil creates an effortless, sultry vibe.
Tip: Blend with a small brush to soften harsh lines.
13. The Halo Eye
A light shimmer in the centre of the lid makes eyes appear larger.
Tip: Use a damp brush for extra pigment payoff.
14. Colourful Wings
Who said winged liner has to be black? Try navy, emerald, or burgundy for a chic pop.
Tip: Set with eyeshadow to keep it in place all day.
15. The Softly Defined Crease
A subtle matte shade blended into the crease gives subtle depth without harsh lines.
Tip: Keep it light and natural for an everyday polished look.
And there you have it, my lovely makeup lovers! Hooded eyes are not a challenge; they are an opportunity to play with different techniques and enhance their unique beauty. Whether you’re walking down the aisle or heading out for a cocktail (or two), these looks will have your eyes stealing the show.
Which one will you be trying first? Let me know in the comments!
Love & Lipstick,
Shahena x