How To Master The Chrome Eye Make-Up Trend
All products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however we may make commission on some products.
Chrome Is Versatile & Fun
“I am obsessed with the multidimensional results you get from chrome make-up. For SS23, we’ve seen both glossy, shimmering lids at The Row and gothic drama at Versace. It’s a trend you can experiment with – whether you opt for gleaming metallics or fun shimmery pigments – there are no rules. It’s having a moment because it embodies a futuristic yet still sophisticated vibe that’s perfect for now.” – Pat McGrath DBE, make-up artist
The Right Shades Are Key
“The way I see it is you reserve chunky glitter for Christmas, and use chrome to bring out shine and glow in the summer. You need to try the trend with warmer shades – think rose golds or bronze. Not only do these enhance your features, they’re perfect for the warm months ahead and look great with a tan. If you have blue eyes, cool, silvery pinks can look beautiful.” – Celia Burton, European make-up artist for Glossier
“While metallic silvers dominate this trend, you can play with a myriad of shades and tones. Incorporate rich, molten golds and iridescent coppers to give you a more multidimensional, opulent feel.” – Pat
Neutrals First, Chrome Just After
“Before you apply any chrome shadows, start with a neutral tone on your lids to build structure. Layering a plain shade will give you a base for chromes to adhere to. Once you’ve done this, go in with a molten, metal shade of your choice, applying it directly to the centre of your eyelids before blending it out. To amp things up, choose two chrome colours to feature on your eyes – one on the inner corner, the other on the lid. This will catch the light nicely and give you that on-trend 3D effect.” – Pat
@VICTORIABECKHAMBEAUTY
It Doesn’t Have To Be OTT
“For a more subtle take on the trend, try a cream shadow like Glossier’s Lidstars, REM’s Fembot Liquid Shadows and Pat McGrath’s Metallic Eyeshadows. Dab a little onto the centre of your eyelid and buff it out to highlight the eye without overwhelming it. Limit the application to the key areas – that includes the centre of your lids, the inner corners of your eyes and the brow bone. Another hack is to spray some M·A·C Fix+ onto a powder highlighter then sweep it across your lids. It creates a soft metallic sheen that’s very flattering.” – Celia
Eyeliner Works Just As Well
“Another easy way to try this trend is to dampen a liner brush with water and dip it into a metallic eyeshadow, using it as a chrome liner. It’s so easy. In terms of where to apply the liner, different eye shapes need different techniques. For a lifted effect, curl your lashes and apply more mascara to the outer third of your lashes before applying eyeliner upward and outward from the outer corners of your top eyelid. To elongate your eyes, curl your lashes and apply more mascara to the outer third of your lashes. Apply liner upward and outward from the outer corner of your top eyelid – you want to extend it into a wing.” – Pat
The Look Isn’t Just For Eyes
“I love the idea of glow continuing across the face – especially if you want everything to tie together in a soft, sophisticated way. When you apply your bronzer and highlighter, carry this across to your eye to melt everything together. It helps to use products that have the same texture – i.e. creams or powders – for a seamless finish. If you’re going for a full-on chrome eye, pair it with glazed skin and bronzed cheekbones looks it feels cohesive.” – Celia
Finally, A Shadow Primer Is Essential
“If you’re wearing the chrome trend on your eyes, a primer is essential to prolong the longevity of the look. Failing that, spray a little fixative onto a brush before applying your chrome colour and it will turn into a creamier texture. This will also stop any glitter or metallic fallout – and it also makes the shine really intense.” – Celia
For more beauty tips & tutorials, follow @PatMcGrathReal & @CeliaBurtonMakeUp.
SHOP OUR CHROME EDIT
DISCLAIMER: We endeavour to always credit the correct original source of every image we use. If you think a credit may be incorrect, please contact us at info@sheerluxe.com.