Is there a more classic cool-girl aesthetic in beauty than the smoky eye? It’s the epitome of sexy. When done right, it has the ability to transform your entire aura from demure girl next door to sultry, bona fide Bond girl within minutes. No wonder makeup artists and beauty lovers alike use it as their go-to look. As beloved as it is, constantly doing a smoky eye over and over can get a bit boring after a while, especially if you’re using the same technique and products each time you recreate it.
When that happens, it’s time to bring out the big guns. Metallic pigments are an easy way to put a unique twist on your signature smoky eye and they work perfectly for the holidays or any other festive occasion. Ready to shake things up with your makeup? Click through the gallery for seven different metallic pigments that are easy to work with, have incredible color payoff and will add some high shine and shimmer to your makeup.
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TK Metallic Pigments to Intensify Your Smoky Eye Looks
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Elcie Cosmetics
Jewels - The Mauve Series, $22 at Elcie Cosmetics
The pigment of these mauve metallic shadows is otherworldly. One single swipe on top of your eyelids delivers a statement-making smoky look.
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BH Cosmetics
Diamond Dazzlers - Loose Foil Pigment, $6 at BH Cosmetics
This is the perfect lid topper when you want to add a bit of oomph to your makeup. The glittery finish of this pigment will leave your eyes looking like dazzling disco balls.
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Tarte
Chrome Paint Shadow Pot, $22 at Ulta Beauty
These vibrant, reflective pigments feel and apply like a powder, but without the fallout — so you don’t have to worry about glitter getting all over everything else.
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Stila
Magnificent Metals Foil Finish Shadow, $32 at DermStore
At first, this breathtaking dusty rose shadow (that comes with a primer to extend its wear) applies like a cream, but it quickly dries down like a powder with Instagram-worthy shimmer. If you find it’s a bit intense, you can apply sheer coverage for a subtle glow.
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Ish
Shimmy Shadow, $22 at Ish
All eight of these pressed metallic foil flakes give off a unique, mirror-like effect that’s sure to capture the light — and everyone's attention.
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Marc Jacobs
See-Quins Glam Glitter Eyeshadow, $28 at Neiman Marcus
In addition to its cutesy name, these glimmering shadows have the most playful sparkly finish.
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Inglot Cosmetics
AMC Pure Pigment Eye Shadow, $18 at Beautylish
Available in a whopping 50 high-impact shades, these shimmery metallic pigments work for any smoky metallic eye look you can dream up. Layered with cream or powder shadow, these pretty pigments will add extra dimension.
