Colors like lilac, dramatic liner applications, and glittery details are all the rage.

But there are some things to keep in mind before you sit down at your vanity and start playing.

Like any art form, the old adage about practice making perfect also applies where makeup is concerned.

A person with bold eyeshadow

It’s rare to pick up an eyeshadow brush and have a perfect tool on the first attempt.

If you’re looking for more than inspiration, have no fear.

There are also some tips and tricks that will make the whole process easier.

a bold eyeshadow look featuring greens, golds, purple, pink and blue

Think of it like a painter prepping their canvas, and then paint away.

When it’s time to apply shadow, remember to blend.

There is a caveat to this rule, though.

A person wears bold eyeshadow and a purple lip

This will also help your bold choices look purposeful and avoid leaving you with a washed-out final look.

If you’re looking to ease into bolder looks, there are simple ways to start.

For example, your lower lash line is prime real estate.

person with bold eyeshadow and colorful eyebrows

If you keep your lid neutral, go vampy down low (viaL’Oreal Paris).

No matter where you’re applying your shadow, remember that a little product goes a long way.

So start slow, and build from there.

For starters, online is the perfect place to go for new brands and products.

Sometimes, it may help to recreate an existing dramatic look instead of making one up on the fly.

If you have a favorite beauty influencer, search their pages for tutorials, tips, and tricks.

Beauty guru Tammi Clarke has a video dedicated to introducing color to your eyeshadow routine (viaYouTube).

Meanwhile, creator Angelica Nyqvist curated a playlist with dozens of tutorials she’s uploaded (viaYouTube).

For you, it could mean something as simple as rocking green eyeshadow.

Or it could be about pulling off a particularlyglamorous smokey eyeor aglossy, editorial look.

Keep in mind that makeup should be more about self-expression than following hard and fast rules.

And, whatever it is, your idea of bold makeup is totally valid.

What matters most is that you are confident with the final result.

Of course, you should also try not to hurt your eyes withdangerous software methods.

That’s obviously important, too.

Keep them in mind, and have a fantastic time creating!