Do You Put On Eyeliner or Eyeshadow First?

Deciding whether to apply eyeliner or eyeshadow first may seem like a small choice, but it can make a big difference in how your final look comes together. The correct order depends on your eye shape, skill level, and the kind of style you’re going for, whether soft and natural or vibrant and defined. 

Not sure where to start? No worries! We’ll walk you through the benefits of each approach, share pro tips for different eye shapes, and help you find the routine that feels most effortless. With high-performance, clean beauty essentials from Thrive Causemetics®, like our waterproof eyeliner and versatile eyeshadow stick, you’ll get beautiful results whichever method you prefer.

Why the Order of Eye Makeup Matters

The sequence of application isn’t just a matter of habit — it directly affects how your products perform together. Eyeshadow has the power to soften and diffuse liner, creating a seamless finish, while liner brings structure and definition that anchors the shadow. Choosing eyeliner or eyeshadow first determines whether your look leans more towards a blended and flexible look or a sharp and precise one, helping you achieve the right balance for everything from an everyday style to a dramatic evening eye.

Applying Eyeshadow First: Great for Blending and Flexibility

So, why do people do eyeshadow first? The main reason is blendability. When you start with shadow, you can create dimension across the lid, experiment with multiple shades, and clean up fallout before committing to liner.

• Allows you to blend and layer color seamlessly without disturbing your liner.

• Makes it easy to correct mistakes or remove excess powder.

• Perfect for smoky or multi-shade looks that need depth and softness.
  

Applying Eyeliner First: Best for Sharp Lines and Statement Looks 

On the other hand, starting with liner can help anchor your look — especially if you’re aiming for a crisp cat eye or dramatic wing. This method is also a great choice when working with formulas that don’t smudge, such as an eyeliner pen. 

• Ideal for graphic shapes, wings, and tightlining.

• Works best when precision is your top priority.

• Especially effective with waterproof formulas that stay put all day.
  

How to Apply Eye Makeup Based on Eye Shape 

Your eye shape can influence whether eyeliner or eyeshadow first will give you the most flattering results. So, which order works best for hooded or almond-shaped eyes? Let’s break it down.

For Hooded Eyes:

• Start with eyeshadow to contour and lift the crease. Placing a matte or mid-tone shade, such as Blythe (Light Cream Matte) or Shaney Jo (Caramel Matte), just above your natural crease creates the illusion of more lid space and helps open up the eyes.

• Apply eyeliner second to keep the lash line defined without closing off the lid. A thin line along the upper lashes adds definition while still letting your shadow work show through. For hooded lids, opt for a warm brown shade like Ella (Brown Matte) — it delivers soft, eye-opening definition without the heaviness that black liner can sometimes create.

• Stick to thinner lines above the crease to avoid overwhelming the eye. Heavy liner can make hooded eyes look smaller, so keep it minimal or extend slightly outward for a subtle lift. 

• Pro tip: Use an eye primer first to lock the color in place and prevent it from transferring onto the upper lid.
  

For Almond Eyes:

• You can go either way, depending on the look. Almond eyes are versatile, so the order comes down to the effect you want to create.

• Eyeshadow-first works beautifully for soft, blended daytime styles. A neutral shade across the lid, such as Shaney Jo (Caramel Matte), paired with a brightening shimmer, such as Stella (Champagne Shimmer), in the inner corner enhances the natural symmetry of almond-shaped eyes.

• Eyeliner-first complements cat-eyes or lifted liner effects. This approach lets you sketch out the shape first, then blend shadow around it to enhance lift.

• Try this pairing: A subtle cat-eye using an eyeliner pen in Ella (Brown Matte) defines without looking harsh, especially when balanced with a wash of shimmer or taupe shadow on the lid.

How to Apply Eye Makeup Based on Your Desired Look 

Beyond eye shape, the best way to decide whether to apply eyeliner or eyeshadow first is to think about the finished effect you want. Whether you prefer something soft and everyday or vivid and dramatic, your application order can make the process easier and the results more polished.

For Natural, Everyday Looks:

• Start with eyeshadow to softly shape and brighten the eyes. A wash of color on the lid adds instant freshness — try using an eyeshadow stick in Stella (Champagne Shimmer) for a luminous highlight or Blythe (Light Cream Matte) for a soft, neutral base.

• Follow with eyeliner to subtly define the upper lash line. A thin, tight line of waterproof eyeliner in Nalie (Chocolate Brown Shimmer) adds gentle definition without overpowering the softness of the shadow.

• Stick with neutral or softly pigmented products for a clean finish. Pair shimmer and matte neutrals for a polished look that enhances your eyes without looking overdone.

For Glam Looks: 

• Apply eyeliner first if you’re creating a statement-making shape. Outlining your wing or graphic liner with our waterproof eyeliner in Lauren (Black Matte) gives you crisp edges to build around.

• Add eyeshadow next to amplify the look with color and depth. For a warm, glamorous effect, sweep Kaelyn (Warm Sienna Matte) across the lid, then layer Pili (Cool Gold Shimmer) into the crease to create a striking contrast that’s perfect for evening looks.

• Choose long-wear formulas to keep the lines sharp all day (or night). Our waterproof and smudge-proof textures make sure your look stays picture-perfect without touch-ups.

For Smoky Styles:

• Begin with eyeshadow to create a soft, gradient effect across the lid. Blend a matte shade, such as Tracy (Cool Taupe Matte), into the crease, then smudge a shimmer, like Callie (Greige Taupe Shimmer), across the lid for added dimension.

• Add eyeliner after shadow to build depth at the lash line. Smudge waterproof eyeliner in Hoda (Slate Grey Matte) along the upper and lower lashes for sultry definition.
  

• Finish by layering a touch of shadow over the liner. This technique softens the edges, creating the seamless, smoky effect that feels polished but not harsh.

Eye Makeup Application Made Easy

At the end of the day, there’s no strict rule about whether to apply eyeliner or eyeshadow first. Think of it as a creative choice: shadows first give you flexibility and softness, while liner first delivers vibrant, defined results. It’s all about experimenting and finding what works best for your eye shape, style, and comfort level. Still not sure? Take our best eye makeup for me quiz to discover your perfect pairing!