Monolid eyes are a common eye shape issue where there is no visible double eyelid fold, which can make the eyes appear flatter and make eye makeup more challenging to create depth. However, having monolids doesn’t mean you can’t create stunning eye makeup. With the right techniques and tips, you can achieve an eye makeup look that is mesmerizing and dimensional.

Basic Principles for Monolid Eye Makeup:

1. Emphasize the Eye Contour

The focus of monolid eye makeup is to highlight the eye contour, particularly through the use of eyeliner and eyeshadow. With precise eyeliner application and careful blending of eyeshadow, you can make your eyes appear deeper and more defined.

2. Avoid Heavy Eyeshadow

Because monolids tend to have flatter eyelids, applying dark eyeshadow can make the eyes appear heavy. Choosing the right balance of lighter and darker shades, and using appropriate blending techniques, can prevent the makeup from looking too dull.

3. Create Eye Dimension

Layering eyeshadows helps to build dimension in the eyes, making them look more vibrant and awake. Avoid using only one eyeshadow color and instead aim for a gradient effect that enhances the natural shape of your eyes.

Steps and Techniques for Monolid Eye Makeup:

1. Prime the Eyes

Before applying eye makeup, use an eyeshadow primer to ensure better eyeshadow adhesion and prevent smudging or fading. A primer will even out the eyelid tone and absorb excess oil, helping your makeup last longer.

2. Choosing and Applying Eyeshadow

Eyeshadow is the key to enhancing the eye shape for monolids. Dark shades can often cover up monolid eyes, so it’s essential to select the right colors and techniques to boost the eye's dimension.

Light Base Color: Start by applying a light eyeshadow (like beige or light pink) all over the upper eyelid. This will set the foundation for your makeup and add subtle brightness. You can opt for shimmer eyeshadows to add a dewy glow to the eyelids.

Blend a Medium Tone: Choose a natural mid-tone color, such as light brown or orange, and apply it to the crease area, gently blending it in. This technique will add depth to the crease without making the eyes look overly heavy.

Deepen the Outer Corners: To add dimension, apply a dark eyeshadow (like deep brown or black) to the outer corners of the eyes. Blend carefully with a brush to avoid harsh lines. Dark eyeshadows will give the eyes a more defined look and elongate the outer corner for a more striking effect.

Work on the Lower Lash Line: Monolid lower lash lines tend to be more prominent, so you’ll need to pay attention to this area. Apply a medium-toned shadow to the outer corners of the lower lash line, avoiding overly dark colors, which can make the eyes appear smaller and less natural.

3. Eyeliner Application

Apply Close to the Lash Line: Use a black or dark brown eyeliner pencil and gently trace the upper lash line as close to the roots as possible, ensuring there are no gaps. Avoid making the eyeliner too thick, as this can make the eyes appear smaller.

Extend the Eyeliner: To make the eyes look bigger and more expressive, slightly extend the eyeliner towards the outer corners and create a slight upward flick. This will elongate the eye shape and enhance the depth.

Inner Rim Liner: Adding eyeliner to the inner rim (waterline) can enhance the contour of the eyes and make them appear brighter and more defined. A dark eyeliner pencil applied to the lower inner rim will create a layered effect.

4. Lash Enhancement:

Use an Eyelash Curler: Start by curling your lashes with an eyelash curler to add volume and curl, opening up the eyes and making them appear more awake.

Choose a Volumizing Mascara: Apply a thickening mascara to both the upper and lower lashes to create a fuller, longer effect. Be careful not to apply too much mascara to the lower lashes, as this can make the look appear unnatural.

False Lashes: For a more dramatic effect, consider using false lashes, particularly focusing on the outer corners to enhance the dimension and add volume.

5. Highlight the Inner Corners

Apply a shimmery, bright eyeshadow to the inner corners of the eyes to make them look more awake and radiant. This also visually shortens the distance between the eyes, making them appear more defined.

Common Mistakes in Monolid Eye Makeup:

1. Using Too Dark of Eyeshadow: Dark eyeshadows can easily cover up monolids and make the eyes look heavy. Avoid applying dark eyeshadows over large areas of the eyelid, especially near the inner corner.

2. Overly Thick Eyeliner: Monolids already lack visible folds, and using a thick eyeliner can make the eyes appear even smaller. Opt for a thin and precise line to better define the eyes.

3. Overdoing the Lower Lash Line: Be cautious with how dark the lower lash line is. Using too deep a color along the entire lower lash line can make the eyes appear too harsh. Instead, sweep a medium tone on the outer part and blend it softly towards the center for a natural look.

Conclusion

Creating eye makeup for monolids is not difficult once you understand the right techniques and methods. By applying eyeshadow correctly, using detailed eyeliner, and enhancing the lashes appropriately, you can significantly enhance the dimensionality of your eyes, making them appear deeper and more defined. Remember, the key to monolid eye makeup is to highlight the eye contour without overwhelming the eyes with heavy makeup. Build layers of color gradually for a seamless and dimensional look.