Blue Eyeshadow is Officially Back—Here's How We're Wearing It Now

Ever since the '80s, blue eyeshadow has been the preserve of fashion shows and photoshoots—because (let's face it) what looks good on the runways certainly doesn't always translate into real life... That is, until now.

Take a short scroll through your TikTok FYP or Instagram feed and you'll notice that blue eyeshadow looks really are having a moment. Indeed, celebs such as Kendall Jenner and Hailey Bieber have already cosigned the trend—wearing it in a way that feels fresh, cool, modern, and decidedly not 1985.

blue eyeshadow looks

(Image credit: @maryphillips)

If you're wondering how the words 'cool', 'fresh', and 'modern' could possibly apply to blue eyeshadow looks, I totally get that. I've dabbled with everything from matte pink eyeshadow to glitter eyeliner, but blue has always felt a little intimidating. The thing is, it doesn't have to be. There are plenty of soft and subtle ways to wear blue eyeshadow for everyday, as well as more bold and fun looks to try if you're feeling creative.

Simply put, there are many many ways to embrace blue eyeshadow—it's all about finding the right shade, texture, and finish for you. To give you some inspiration, I've rounded up an edit of some of my favourite blue eyeshadow looks—plus, the best blue eyeshadows to shop this year.

The Best Blue Eyeshadow Looks:

1. Grey Blue

blue eyeshadow looks

(Image credit: @kennethsohmakeup)

Soften a blue eyeshadow look by mixing in a little grey shadow to make it feel more neutral and wearable.

2. '60s Blue

blue eyeshadow looks

(Image credit: @lilly_keys)

If you do want to go bold and bright, build pigment all over the lid and define the crease for a '60s-inspired effect.

3. Baby Blue

blue eyeshadow looks

(Image credit: @valeriaferreiramakeup)

A light dusting of pale blue eyeshadow always looks so, so pretty.

4. Blue Shift

blue eyeshadow looks

(Image credit: @valeriaferreiramakeup)

Create a colour shift effect by blending in some purple shimmer.

5. Blue Liner

blue eyeshadow looks

(Image credit: @valeriaferreiramakeup)

Eyeshadow doesn't need to cover the full lid—try applying it along your lash line instead.

6. Dusty Blue

blue eyeshadow looks

(Image credit: @maryphillips)

This dusty, denim-like blue feels so cool and modern.

7. Blue Smoky Eye

blue eyeshadow looks

(Image credit: @babskymakeup)

Why not add some colour to your classic smoky eye?

8. Blue Shimmer

blue eyeshadow looks

(Image credit: @lilly_keys)

Heading out out? Apply a layer of shimmer over your blue eyeshadow.

9. Blue Glitter Liner

blue eyeshadow looks

(Image credit: @kennethsohmakeup)

This bold blue glitter look is perfect for party season.

10. Pale Blue Wash

blue eyeshadow looks

(Image credit: @valeriaferreiramakeup)

A pale blue like this one will make darker eyes pop.

11. Blue Under-Liner

blue eyeshadow looks

(Image credit: @Lilly_keys)

Lining the lower lash line is the ultimate 'cool girl' makeup look.

12. Bright Blue Wing

blue eyeshadow looks

(Image credit: @valeriaferreiramakeup)

This bright blue winged liner look is one to bookmark for summer.

13. Mermaid Blue

blue eyeshadow looks

(Image credit: @lilly_keys)

If you have green eyes, opt for a more green-toned blue eyeshadow, such as teal or turquoise.

14. Icy Blue

blue eyeshadow looks

(Image credit: @valeriaferreiramakeup)

I'm obsessed with this icy blue glitter makeup look.

15. Matte Blue

blue eyeshadow looks

(Image credit: @lilly_keys)

The matte finish, the winged shape, and the defined lower lashes—*chef's kiss*.

16. Powdery Blue

blue eyeshadow looks

(Image credit: @valeriaferreiramakeup)

This cool lavender blue shade pairs perfectly with lashings of mascara and a peach-pink lip.

17. Ocean Blue

blue eyeshadow looks

(Image credit: @Lilly_keys)

This green-blue glitter look with smoky liner is ideal for an evening event.

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Freelance Beauty Editor

Grace Day is a beauty editor and content creator. She has over 10 years of beauty-industry experience, spanning editorial, retail, and e-commerce, which gives her a unique understanding into how people shop for their beauty routines.While studying for a history degree (specialising in the history of beauty) and working as a beauty adviser in department stores, Grace started writing her own beauty blog in order to share the products she discovered while dealing with acne. After graduating, she moved to Beauty Bay as beauty editor and content manager. Grace is currently a beauty contributor to Who What Wear. She has also written for Hypebae and PopSugar and works as a brand consultant and copywriter.