Step aside, neutral lids — bold eyeshadow is back, and we’re showing you the standout looks to try this year.
If the past year has taught us anything, it’s that 2026 demands boldness. The clean-girl aesthetic has had a good run, but the tide is clearly turning toward bold expression, maximalism, and beauty that feels intentional rather than invisible. One of the clearest signs of this shift? Eyeshadow is reclaiming its moment.
As always, fashion sets the tone first. On both local and international runways last year — from Lagos Fashion Week to global shows — we saw designers leaning into striking eye looks that felt expressive. Brands such as Anna Sui, House of Aama, and Private Policy championed vivid palettes abroad. Closer to home, labels including WOTÈ, Sevon Dejana, and Revival London gave us a preview of what beauty in the coming year would look like: confident, colourful, and anything but minimal.
The case for bold eyeshadow
Off the runway, the message has been just as loud. Social media has been buzzing with bold eye moments — Zara Larsson’s standout looks, in particular, have makeup lovers in a chokehold. Tyla has also delivered countless unforgettable eyeshadow moments, proving that the stars are fully on board with bold lids. Even in everyday life, more people are stepping out in colour. From vibrant blushes to hued eyelashes, makeup is starting to feel playful again.
For years, eyeshadow has remained one of the most underused elements of makeup. When it is worn, it’s usually kept safe — neutral tones, soft browns, or the occasional soft smoky eye reserved for special occasions. Many people shy away from colour because standing out feels risky, especially for everyday wear. But makeup was meant to be fun and yes, wearable wherever you choose to show up.
Bold eyeshadow never truly disappeared; the dominance of the clean aesthetic simply muted it. Now, as that grip loosens, there’s a renewed craving for something more exciting and more personal. If you’ve been feeling the same way, consider this your sign. We’re breaking down bold looks you can try to spice up your makeup routine — no celebration required.
Read also: Beginner-friendly tips for striking eyeshadow looks
Intense hue eyeshadow
The easiest way to ease into striking eyeshadow is to start with one statement colour you genuinely love and feel confident wearing. . Play with colours like cobalt blue, rich purple, fiery red, or sunny yellow, whatever you feel like. The trick is to apply the colour evenly and not be shy with placement, letting it sweep across the lid (and slightly beyond). This ensures full impact and helps the look truly pop.
Cool-toned eyeshadow
It’s safe to say that cool-toned eyeshadows were one of last year’s biggest eye makeup trends — and they’re showing no signs of slowing down. While warm tones deliver that sun-kissed glow, cool shades offer a chic, modern edge. Their appeal lies in how effortlessly they create looks that feel polished and dramatic, all while making the eyes stand out. You can explore shades like taupe, soft grey, slate, icy silver, mint, and similar hues. It’s perfect for experimenting with a cooler, more refined take on vivid eye makeup.
Winged eyeshadow
We all know the classic winged eyeliner, but here’s a twist: turn your eyeshadow into both shadow and liner — killing two birds with one stone. After applying your eyeshadow to the lids, sweep the colour out toward the outer corner of your eye, extending it just as you would a winged liner. This technique adds instant dimension and a playful, creative edge to your look, proving that eyeshadow doesn’t have to stay confined to the lid.
Read also: The 2026 beauty go-to list: Makeup, skincare, and fragrances we’ll definitely be using this year
Colourful eyeshadow
Think you can’t wear five different shades at once? Think again. Makeup lovers are turning their lids into miniature canvases, painting bold, artistic works of art with colour. The multicoloured eyeshadow look is perfect for moments when you want to stand out and break free from the ordinary. Pick any shades, layer them creatively, and watch the magic happen as each hue comes together to create a statement-making, defined look.
Metallic eyeshadow
Another beauty staple from last year that’s not going anywhere, anytime soon? Metallic eyeshadow — arguably the crown jewel of the season. Unlike glitter, metallics have their own distinct charm: a liquid-metal finish that makes the lids look highly reflective and intensely shimmery. It’s the kind of eye-catching shine that makeup lovers can’t get enough of. For maximum impact, layer a metallic shade over a slightly darker base to add depth and make the shimmer really pop.
Ethereal eyeshadow
The ethereal eyeshadow look is all about soft, dreamy vibes. It’s the kind of makeup you’d imagine on fairies or mystical creatures from folklore. Rather than dark shades, soft, pastel shades like lavender, baby blue, peach, and rosy pink take centre stage, paired with dewy textures and delicate shimmer to give the eyes an angelic, dreamlike glow.
Smokey eye makeup
Smokey eye makeup is a true classic — one style that rarely goes wrong. It’s all about blending eyeshadow and liner to create that iconic, sultry “mob-wife” aesthetic. Beyond its drama, the smokey eye does a fantastic job of enhancing eye shapes and adding depth, making it a go-to for anyone looking to switch things up.
Sunset eyeshadow
In the world of sunset-inspired makeup, we first fell in love with the sunset blush that dominated social media a couple of years ago. Now, the sunset eyeshadow is having its moment. This look seamlessly blends shades of orange, yellow, and purple across the lids, creating that perfect sunset effect. For a full-face statement, you can even carry the colours onto your cheeks and complete the ultimate sunset-inspired makeup look.
All eyes on you
Bold eyeshadow can feel intimidating at first, and that’s totally understandable. But once you start, it’s hard to stop. There’s something empowering about stepping out in a look that turns heads, expresses who you are, and feels like wearable art. Beyond the styles on this list, there are endless ways to play with colour and create your own signature eye look. So don’t be afraid to experiment — grab your favourite shades, get your palette ready, and make some magic.
Read more: “Costume Art” is the Met Gala 2026 theme, and here is everything we know about it so far
