How to Make Your Eyes Look Bigger

 

Studies have shown that women with larger eyes are considered more attractive and feminine. This may be why babies and puppies are so cute: their eyes are huge in relation to the rest of their face. However, as we grow up, our eyes tend to look smaller. I sat down with my friend Amy Nadine, a celebrity makeup artist and the co-founder (with Lauren Conrad) of the Web site The Beauty Department, to ask her advice on how to make eyes look bigger:

JW: How can I make my eyes look bigger but still natural?

AN: There are a couple of tricks to make your eyes look bigger. First, instead of using shadow just on the lid, enlarge the area covered to include the crease, using a single color wash. Don’t contour with a different color. Then line the inner corner of the waterline with a light beige pencil, like Stila Kajal Liner in Topaz, which will open the eye. Black liner will close up the eye and make it look smaller.

JW: My lids are getting heavier as I’m getting older. Any way to make them look less heavy?

AN: Again, stay away from contouring or anything that will draw attention to the skin that is now “hanging” a little. Opt for a light pearl shade all over the lid. Try Maybelline Colour Tattoo Metal Shadow in Barely Branded.

JW: I just got glasses, and they make my eyes look smaller. How should I change my eye makeup?

AN: Glasses cast a shadow, so you need to make sure to use concealer under the eyes. I love CoverGirl + Olay Concealer Balm. Then frame the eyes by filling in your brows. Also, give your lashes a good pinch with a lash curler (my favorite is MAC’s), and if you line your eyes, put the emphasis on the bottom lash line and, again, use a nude or white liner in the inner waterline to really open up the eye.