The 5 Rules of Daytime Eye Makeup

Brazen liner, glamorous glitter and mega-lush lashes are a few of our very favorite things, but we know—much to the dismay of our drama-loving hearts—that they’re not always appropriate for daytime settings. To help us walk the fine line between what’s suitable and what’s overkill for the office.







1. Avoid Black & Glitter“First, I believe makeup should be fun and highlight your beauty. However, if you work in a corporate or conservative setting, ‘too-much’ eye makeup is not work appropriate. For example, a dark smoky eye is a no-go for everyday wear at the office. Avoid using colors like black, dark blue or anything glittery,” Chavez advises.


2. Master Subtle LinerIf you love liner, but don’t want to look overly done Chavez has two great techniques for subtle liner. “Dash the eyeliner pencil into the lash line—it will make the lashes look fuller,” or “use a cake eyeliner (a water activated, usually potted liner) with a stiff, flat brush. Apply the eyeliner under the lash line for a ‘non-eyeliner’ look.”


3. Lighten Up Your Smoky EyeIf you love yourself a good smoky eye, don’t feel like they’re completely banished for daytime. If you opt for “more subtle tones like plums, greys or browns you can create a lovely daytime smoky look. Apply the darkest tone close to the lash line then blend upward toward the crease. You want to create a sunset effect. Then finish it off with a couple of coats of black mascara,” Chavez says.


4. Keep it SimpleIf you need inspiration for the perfect daytime eye makeup, Chavez shared her recipe. “First, I apply a skin tone eye base to brighten my eye. Second, I apply eyeliner under the lash line to make my lashes look fuller. Third, I fill in my eyebrows. The eyebrows frame your eyes, so never forget to define them. Lastly, apply several coats of mascara. It's a clean, fresh look for everyday.”


5. Wear What You Love The most important rule to keep in mind? “Never wear anything you are not confident in. Makeup should bring out our inner confidence. If you love bright shadows go for it, but be sure all colors suit your skin tone and compliment your eye color,” Chavez says. When in doubt, tone down the glamorous looks you love to interpret them for day, and do you, girlfriend.




Credit:Tanya Chavez.