The Essential Eyeshadow Palette: 5 Staple Shades for Every Makeup Bag

The 5 shades that should be in every makeup bag!

When it comes to creating a versatile makeup collection, having the right eyeshadow shades can make all the difference. With an endless array of colors available, narrowing it down to the essentials can streamline your routine and ensure you’re prepared for any occasion. Here are five staple eyeshadow shades every makeup enthusiast should have in her bag, along with tips on how to use them.

1. Matte Beige or Cream: This shade is the unsung hero of eyeshadow palettes. She doesn't offer a ton in terms of adding color to the look, but don't write this shade off just yet. A matte beige or cream is perfect for creating a clean base on your eyelids, evening out any discoloration and providing a smooth canvas for other colors. It's also ideal for highlighting the brow bone to give your eyes a lifted appearance, especially if you are applying a shimmer look on the lid. Whether you're going for a natural daytime look or a dramatic evening style, this shade is indispensable.

   *My favorite shades for this would be Cupcake, Stay Golden and Valencia. You can find those shades HERE.

   
   

2. Soft Taupe: A soft taupe shade is incredibly versatile and can serve as a transition color for blending. It’s perfect for adding subtle definition to the crease (apply a bit higher if you have a hooded lid), enhancing the natural contours of the eye without being overpowering, and creating a perfect one shadow look. This shade works well for both daytime looks and as a base for smoky eyes, making it a must-have for seamless blending.

   *My favorite shades for this would be Basic, Chai and Pup. You can find those shades HERE.

   You can find a tutorial HERE on how to apply to create a one shadow look.

   
   

3. Warm Brown: A warm brown shade is essential for adding depth and dimension to the eyes. It can be used in the crease for a natural look or to deepen the crease, to add depth and dimension to the outer corner or smudged along the lash line for a soft, smoky effect. This color compliments a wide range of skin tones and pairs beautifully with both neutral and bold shades, making it a versatile addition to any palette.

   *My favorite shades for this are Bubba, Butterscotch, Sedona, Zion, Holly and Coco. You can find those shades HERE.

   
   

4. Rich Plum or Burgundy: For those times when you want to add a pop of color or create a more dramatic look, a rich plum or burgundy shade is perfect. These colors are universally flattering and can make any eye color stand out. Apply it to the outer corners of the eyes or blend it into the crease for a sophisticated evening look. It’s an excellent choice for adding warmth and intensity without going overboard.

   *My favorite shades for this are Pomegranate, Revival, Kin, Spell and Eternal. You can find those shades HERE.

   
   

5. Shimmery Champagne or Gold: A shimmery champagne or gold shade is the perfect way to add a touch of glamour to your makeup. Use it on the inner corners of the eyes to brighten and open up the gaze, or apply it to the center of the eyelids for a radiant, eye-catching effect. This shade is perfect for special occasions or when you want to elevate your everyday look with a bit of sparkle.

   *My favorite shades for this are Rome, Sabrina, Drift, Angels Landing, Riviera, Bright Eyes, and Gold Digger. You can find those shades HERE.

   You can find a tutorial HERE on why I recommend applying this shade with your fingers!

   
   

Incorporating these five staple eyeshadow shades into your makeup bag will ensure you’re ready to create a variety of looks, from subtle and understated to bold and glamorous. By understanding where and how to apply each shade, you can effortlessly enhance your natural beauty and express your personal style with confidence.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Head to my YouTube channel where I am teaching you how to apply anywhere from 1-4 eyeshadows through short, but detailed, makeup tutorials. Click HERE to find my channel.

Want more eyeshadow support?! Click HERE and tell me your eye color and I will send you tutorials, shade recommendations and more straight to your inbox!

Not sure where to start when selecting your daily eyeshadow looks? Click HERE and I'll send you 5 things to consider when deciding your eyeshadow look. I even include example looks to further explain each consideration.

Hands down my favorite eyeshadow brush to use when applying my looks is the Eyeshadow Brush by Seint. Its a double-ended brush, hello more bang for your buck!, and it offers the perfect brush head to blend in shades while also offering a dense brush head for smoky looks. Check it out HERE.