16 Black Eyeshadow Looks for 2024

Black eyeshadow has long been a staple for creating bold, daring makeup looks.

Its versatility allows you to craft anything from subtle elegance to intense drama, making it a go-to choice for those looking to make a statement.

In this article, I’ve compiled 16 black eyeshadow looks that range from timeless to trendy.

Each idea is designed to inspire you to experiment with this bold color, helping you find the perfect style for any occasion.

Tips for Black Eyeshadow

Here are some essential tips for applying black eyeshadow to achieve the perfect look:

1. Start with a Primer

Always apply an eyeshadow primer or a concealer base to your eyelids before using black eyeshadow.

This helps the eyeshadow adhere better, enhances its intensity, and prevents creasing throughout the day.

2. Use a Buildable Formula

Black eyeshadow can be intense, so start with a small amount and build up the color gradually.

This ensures that you have better control over the depth and intensity, avoiding harsh or uneven application.

3. Blend, Blend, Blend

Blending is key to a seamless look with black eyeshadow. Use a fluffy blending brush to soften the edges, creating a smoother transition between the black shadow and other colors. Blending prevents the look from appearing harsh and keeps it polished.

4. Use Tape for Sharp Lines

For a clean cut crease or winged look, place a small piece of tape at the outer corner of your eye, angled toward the brow.

This helps create a sharp, defined edge for a more professional-looking finish.

5. Set with a Powder

If you’re going for a matte black eyeshadow look, set the base with a light layer of translucent powder. This reduces fallout and ensures the shadow stays in place longer.

6. Pair with the Right Brushes

For precise application, use a flat eyeshadow brush to pack the black shadow onto the lid.

For blending, use a fluffy brush, and for smudging along the lower lash line, opt for a small, dense brush.

7. Keep the Rest of the Makeup Minimal

Black eyeshadow is bold on its own, so pair it with neutral lips and a natural complexion to let the eyes be the focus. This balance ensures your look stays sophisticated and not overwhelming.

8. Use a Clean Brush to Soften Edges

After applying black eyeshadow, take a clean blending brush to softly blend out any harsh edges.

This creates a seamless gradient effect and prevents harsh lines that can make the look appear heavy.

9. Wet Your Brush for Extra Intensity

For a more intense, pigmented black eyeshadow look, dampen your eyeshadow brush slightly before applying the shadow. This will make the color bolder and more dramatic.

10. Apply Eyeshadow First to Avoid Fallout

Black eyeshadow can create fallout, leaving dark spots on your face.

To avoid this, apply your eye makeup before your foundation so you can easily clean up any fallout without disrupting your base.

16 Black Eyeshadow Looks

1. Smoky Black Eyeshadow

To create this, apply black eyeshadow to the outer corner of your eyelid and blend it towards the center, gradually fading into a lighter gray or even a subtle brown shade.

The key is in the blending – use a fluffy brush to soften the edges, creating a diffused, smoky effect.

You can intensify the look by applying black liner along the upper and lower lash lines, smudging it out for an extra sultry finish.

2. Matte Black Cut Crease

This look is all about sharp contrast. Start by defining your crease with a matte black eyeshadow, using a flat brush for precision.

Cut the crease by applying a lighter concealer or base over your eyelid, leaving a sharp line between the black shadow and the base color.

Blend the black shadow upwards for a seamless transition. Pair it with winged liner for an extra clean, polished finish.

3. Shimmering Black Eyes

Elevate your black eyeshadow look by incorporating shimmer. Begin with a base of matte black, then layer shimmering pigments or glitter on top.

Focus the shimmer in the center of the lid for a spotlight effect, and blend lightly towards the outer corners.

This look works well for both casual and evening wear, depending on how intense you want the shimmer to be.

4. Black and Silver Gradient

This look is all about blending. Start with black eyeshadow in the outer corner of the eyelid and gradually fade into a silver shade as you move inward.

Use a fluffy blending brush to ensure the colors transition smoothly. The gradient effect adds dimension to the eyes and can make them appear larger and more defined.

5. Gothic Black Eyeshadow

For an edgy, gothic look, apply jet-black eyeshadow across the entire lid, keeping the lines sharp and defined. Skip heavy blending to keep the look intense and high-contrast.

To complete the gothic vibe, you can add a bold black liner along the waterline and finish with thick mascara.

This look pairs well with dark lipstick to enhance the overall dramatic effect.

6. Black Eyeshadow with Winged Liner

Achieve a sharp and sophisticated look by pairing black eyeshadow with a precise winged liner.

Apply the black shadow over the lid, keeping it soft around the edges.

Then, draw a sharp, angled winged liner to elongate the eyes. This look is ideal for when you want to keep it bold yet clean, letting the liner add definition to your eyes.

7. Smudged Black Lower Lash Line

For a more grungy, rock-chic aesthetic, focus the black eyeshadow on your lower lash line.

Apply a generous amount of black shadow and smudge it out with a small brush to create a smoky, undone effect.

This look is perfect for casual settings or when you want a touch of boldness without being too polished.

8. Black Halo Eye

Create a halo eye by placing black eyeshadow on the inner and outer corners of the lid, leaving the center blank.

Blend the edges so they’re soft, then apply a lighter shimmer or metallic shade to the center of the lid.

This creates a rounded, glowing effect that highlights the eyes. You can intensify the look by darkening the black shadow on the edges and using a brighter shimmer in the center.

9. Black and Gold Glam

For a luxurious look, blend black eyeshadow with rich gold pigments. Start with black shadow in the outer corner and blend it into the crease.

Then, apply a metallic gold shade to the inner half of the lid, blending into the black.

The gold adds a luminous pop that brightens the eyes while still maintaining the drama of the black.

10. Black Glitter Smoky Eye

To make your smoky eye stand out, add black glitter over a base of matte black eyeshadow.

The key is to apply glitter glue or a tacky base first, then pack on the glitter for a strong hold.

Focus the glitter on the center of the lid to catch the light, while keeping the outer corners matte to maintain depth and dimension.

11. Graphic Black Shadow

For a creative, avant-garde style, use black eyeshadow to create bold, geometric shapes on the lid.

Whether it’s a sharp, angled cut or a rounded swoop, this look is all about clean lines and high contrast.

Use tape or a precision brush to achieve a flawless edge. Skip the heavy blending to keep the graphic design the focus.

12. Black Eyeshadow with Gloss

Add a modern twist to your black eyeshadow by layering a clear gloss over it. Apply a matte black base first, then gently dab gloss on the center of the lid using your fingertip.

The result is a wet, editorial look that’s high-fashion and edgy. Keep the rest of your makeup minimal to let the glossy eyes be the star.

13. Black and Burgundy Blend

For a romantic twist on black eyeshadow, blend it with burgundy tones.

Start by applying black to the outer corner of the eye and then blend it into a deep burgundy shade toward the center of the lid.

The mix of black and red creates a vampy, sultry look perfect for evening wear. Finish with a bold mascara to complete the eye-catching look.

14. Smoky Black Wing

Blend black eyeshadow into a winged shape for a soft, smoky take on the classic winged liner.

Start by applying the black shadow along the upper lash line and blend it outward into a wing.

Keep the edges soft by using a blending brush to diffuse the color. This look adds definition and elongates the eyes without the sharpness of a traditional wing.

15. All-Over Matte Black

For a bold, minimalist look, cover the entire eyelid with matte black eyeshadow. Skip heavy blending and keep the color concentrated all over the lid.

This look is clean yet daring, letting the solid black take center stage. Pair it with a simple lip and minimal face makeup for balance.

16. Black and Blue Duo

Mix black eyeshadow with a bold blue to create a striking two-tone look. Apply black to the outer corners and blend it into a deep or electric blue on the inner part of the lid.

The contrast between the two shades adds depth and uniqueness to your eye makeup. Use a matching blue liner on the lower lash line to tie the look together.