Eye makeup can be one of the more challenging parts of a makeup routine, due to the fact that one wrong brush stroke or eye shadow color choice can take you from looking fabulous to freaky in a matter of seconds. Here are the top 5 simple eye makeup application techniques that are easy and effective in order to ensure that your eyes look their best, no matter what.

The first important component in regards to eye makeup application techniques is color. Certain eye shadow colors look better against certain eye colors. Eye color can get lost and muted when paired with the wrong color. Always remember to go for contrast when it comes to choosing an eye shadow. Darker eyes tend to look good in grays, blues, greens and purples, while lighter eyes tend to look good in taupes, browns and bronze shades. When applying eye shadow, start light and then layer accordingly. It is much easier to build color than it is to remove it, because most likely you will have to start over again.

Applying eyeliner is one of the trickier eye makeup application techniques, but can make your eyes stand out dramatically in just seconds. Before applying liner, determine the shape of your eyes. If your eyes are round or set close together, only line the outer corners. Otherwise, line the entire upper lid. Soften the tip of the pencil by rolling it between your fingers so that you do not poke your eye, and use one hand to pull your eyelid down so that you can apply the liner without obstruction. Dust a powder shadow on top of the liner to prevent it from coming off.