15 Purple Makeup Ideas
Purple, the color of royalty, mystery, and creativity, holds a unique power in the world of makeup. From soft, ethereal lavenders to bold, vampy plums, this versatile hue offers an endless spectrum of possibilities for expressing your personal style. Whether you’re aiming for a subtle pop of color, a sophisticated smoky eye, or an avant-garde artistic statement, purple can transform your look with unparalleled elegance and allure. Dive into the enchanting world of amethyst, orchid, and violet as we explore 15 captivating purple makeup ideas that will inspire you to embrace this magnificent shade.
The Allure of Amethyst Eyes
Amethyst, a rich and regal shade of purple, is perfect for creating a luxurious and captivating eye look. This color often has blue undertones, making it incredibly flattering on a variety of skin tones and eye colors. To achieve an amethyst eye, start with a matte amethyst shade as your base, sweeping it across the lid and into the crease. For added dimension, introduce a deeper plum or even a dark brown into the outer corner and lash line, blending meticulously for a seamless transition. A touch of iridescent amethyst shimmer on the center of the lid can catch the light beautifully, adding a touch of glamour. Finish with a precise liquid eyeliner wing and a generous coat of volumizing mascara to truly open up the eyes. This look pairs wonderfully with a nude lip and a subtle flush on the cheeks, keeping the focus squarely on your mesmerizing eyes.
Lavender Lids for a Soft Touch
For those who prefer a softer, more delicate approach to color, lavender is your go-to purple. This pastel shade is inherently romantic and whimsical, perfect for daytime wear or events where you want to exude an airy, gentle charm. To create a beautiful lavender lid, choose a matte lavender eyeshadow and apply it all over the eyelid, diffusing the edges gently into the crease. For a touch of sparkle, lightly tap a shimmering lavender or silver shadow onto the center of the lid. Pair this with a soft brown or grey eyeliner, keeping the line thin and close to the lash line, or skip liner altogether for an even softer effect. A few coats of black or brown mascara will complete the look. Lavender lids are particularly stunning when complemented by peachy or pink-toned blush and a sheer lip gloss, creating a fresh, youthful glow that is both understated and enchanting.
Deep Plum Drama
When the occasion calls for drama and sophistication, deep plum is the ultimate choice. This rich, dark purple hue borders on burgundy or even brown, offering a captivating intensity that is perfect for evening events, date nights, or when you simply want to make a statement. To master the deep plum dramatic look, start with an eyeshadow primer to ensure longevity and vibrancy. Apply a deep matte plum shade across the entire lid and blend it upwards into the crease, building intensity gradually. For added depth, use a black or very dark brown eyeshadow in the outer corner, blending it seamlessly into the plum. A sharp, dramatic winged eyeliner in black will frame the eyes beautifully, and a set of lush false eyelashes can elevate the drama further. While the eyes are bold, you can either opt for a complementary dark plum lipstick for a monochromatic statement or balance it with a nude lip to keep the focus solely on the eyes. This look demands confidence and exudes an air of mysterious allure.
Shimmering Lilac Eyeliner
If a full purple eyeshadow look feels too daring, shimmering lilac eyeliner offers a chic and playful alternative. This idea is perfect for adding a subtle pop of color without overwhelming your natural features. Choose a highly pigmented, shimmering lilac liquid or gel eyeliner. Apply it precisely along your upper lash line, extending into a clean, crisp wing. The shimmering finish will catch the light, adding a touch of sparkle and interest. Keep the rest of your eye makeup minimal – perhaps just a touch of mascara and a neutral eyeshadow on the lid to ensure the lilac line stands out. This look pairs beautifully with fresh, dewy skin, a subtle blush, and a clear or nude lip gloss. It’s a fantastic way to experiment with purple in a modern, understated fashion, suitable for both day and night, adding a vibrant twist to your everyday makeup routine.
Galactic Violet Inner Corner Pop
For a whimsical and eye-opening effect, consider a galactic violet inner corner pop. This trend involves applying a bright, often iridescent or metallic violet eyeshadow to the inner corner of your eyes. It instantly brightens and widens the eyes, adding a futuristic and playful touch to any makeup look. This technique works exceptionally well with otherwise neutral eye makeup, allowing the violet pop to be the unexpected focal point. Start with your preferred neutral eye look – perhaps a soft brown smoky eye or a simple matte lid. Then, using a small, precise brush, pack a vibrant, shimmery violet eyeshadow onto the inner corner, extending it slightly onto the lower lash line. The key is to make it opaque and bright. This small detail can have a huge impact, making your eyes appear more awake and adding a captivating, unexpected flash of color that’s both artistic and charming.
Royal Purple Cut Crease
The cut crease technique is a staple for those who love precision and dramatic eye makeup, and royal purple brings it to life with an undeniable majestic flair. A royal purple cut crease is bold, artistic, and incredibly striking, perfect for special occasions or when you want to showcase your makeup artistry skills. To achieve this look, apply a lighter, neutral eyeshadow base across your lid. Then, using a highly pigmented royal purple eyeshadow, meticulously define your crease line with a precise brush. The goal is to create a sharp, clean line that ‘cuts’ across the crease, separating it from the lid. Fill in the area above the cut crease with a slightly lighter purple or a complementary neutral shade, and keep the lid clear or fill it with a shimmering silver, gold, or even a soft glitter for contrast. Finish with sharp winged eyeliner and dramatic lashes to amplify the effect. This look is a true showstopper, embodying strength and refined beauty.
Ombre Purple Lips
Purple isn’t just for eyes; it can create a truly stunning statement on your lips as well. Ombre purple lips are an artistic and modern way to wear the shade, creating a beautiful gradient effect that adds volume and dimension to your pout. To create this look, start by lining your lips with a dark plum or deep violet lip liner, outlining the natural shape and filling in the outer corners slightly. Then, apply a slightly lighter, vibrant purple lipstick to the main body of your lips. For the center, dab a even lighter, brighter purple or even a fuchsia or lavender shade, and gently blend the edges where the colors meet using a lip brush or your finger. The result is a seamless transition from dark to light, creating a fuller, more luscious appearance. This bold lip look can be paired with relatively simple eye makeup, such as a thin line of black eyeliner and mascara, ensuring your lips remain the captivating focal point.
Matte Mauve Monochromatic Look
Monochromatic makeup is incredibly chic and sophisticated, and a matte mauve version is particularly elegant. Mauve, a muted purple with hints of pink and grey, is universally flattering and perfect for creating a cohesive, polished look. For a matte mauve monochromatic style, begin by applying a matte mauve eyeshadow across your eyelids, blending it softly into the crease and slightly onto the lower lash line. Keep the edges diffused for a soft, natural finish. Next, choose a matte blush in a similar mauve or dusty rose tone and apply it lightly to the apples of your cheeks, sweeping it upwards towards your temples. Finally, complete the look with a matte mauve lipstick or liquid lip color. The key to a successful monochromatic look is using similar undertones and finishes across all products. This creates a harmonious, refined aesthetic that is both modern and timeless, perfect for everyday wear or a sophisticated daytime event.
Grape Glitter Glam
For ultimate sparkle and show-stopping glam, grape glitter eyes are an absolute must. This look is perfect for parties, festivals, or any occasion where you want to shine brightly and make a memorable entrance. Start by creating a base with a matte grape or deep violet eyeshadow, building up the intensity as desired. Once your eyeshadow is blended, apply a glitter adhesive specifically designed for eye use over the areas where you want the glitter to adhere – typically the eyelid. Then, carefully press loose grape-colored cosmetic glitter onto the adhesive using a flat brush or your fingertip. Be sure to use cosmetic-grade glitter safe for eyes. Finish with a strong winged eyeliner and a generous amount of mascara, or even false lashes, to frame the dazzling glitter. Pair this with a relatively neutral face and lip to let your eyes truly sparkle. Grape glitter glam is all about embracing boldness and luminosity, ensuring all eyes are on you.
Pastel Periwinkle Lower Lash Line
Adding a pop of color to the lower lash line is a fantastic way to introduce vibrancy without a full-blown dramatic eye. Pastel periwinkle, a soft blue-purple shade, is particularly charming and unexpected for this technique. This look is subtle enough for daytime but adds a unique, playful touch. To achieve this, keep your upper eyelid relatively natural with a neutral eyeshadow or just mascara. Then, using a creamy pastel periwinkle eyeliner pencil or a dampened thin brush with periwinkle eyeshadow, carefully line your lower lash line. You can apply it along the waterline for an intense pop or slightly below the lash line for a softer, smudged effect. This unexpected splash of color brightens the eyes and adds a touch of whimsical elegance. It pairs beautifully with light, fresh makeup and is an ideal way to gently incorporate purple into your beauty routine.
Bold Orchid Blush
Who says purple is just for eyes and lips? A bold orchid-colored blush can be incredibly striking and add an artistic flush to your cheeks. Orchid, a vibrant pink-purple hue, can instantly awaken the complexion and provide a unique, modern touch to your face makeup. To wear this look, choose a highly pigmented orchid-toned blush, either cream or powder. Apply it sparingly to the apples of your cheeks, blending outwards towards your temples. The key is to start with a very small amount and build up the color gradually to avoid an overwhelming effect. Ensure your skin is prepped well for a smooth application. This adventurous blush choice looks fantastic when paired with minimal eye makeup and a soft, natural lip, allowing the cheeks to take center stage. It’s a statement that shows confidence and a keen eye for modern color trends, making your skin glow with an unconventional beauty.
Gothic Berry Lips
For a look that’s both mysterious and powerfully chic, gothic berry lips are an undeniable choice. This style embraces the darkest, deepest purples – think blackcurrant, blackberry, or very dark plum – to create a dramatic and vampy pout. This look is especially impactful in colder months or for evening events, exuding an air of edgy sophistication. To achieve perfect gothic berry lips, start by exfoliating and moisturizing your lips for a smooth canvas. Use a very dark lip liner in a matching shade to precisely outline your lips and fill them in completely, which helps prevent feathering and intensifies the color. Then, apply a matte or satin finish dark berry purple lipstick. Precision is key here; use a lip brush for a crisp, clean edge. Pair these dramatic lips with minimal eye makeup – perhaps just mascara or a touch of neutral shadow – and well-groomed brows, ensuring your lips are the ultimate focus. This look is for the fearless fashionista who isn’t afraid to make a powerful statement.
Two-Tone Purple Eyeshadow
Embrace the versatility of purple with a dynamic two-tone eyeshadow look. This technique allows you to play with contrasting or complementary purple shades, creating depth and visual interest on your eyelids. You might pair a light lavender on the lid with a deeper plum in the crease, or a shimmery orchid on the inner half of the lid transitioning to a matte violet on the outer half. To execute this, apply your lighter or brighter purple shade on the mobile lid. Then, with a blending brush, apply your second, deeper or contrasting purple shade into the crease, blending it seamlessly into the first color. You can also extend the deeper shade to the outer V of the eye for added definition. The key is smooth blending to avoid harsh lines and create a harmonious transition between the two hues. Finish with eyeliner and mascara that complement the intensity of your chosen purple shades. This approach offers endless creative possibilities, allowing you to tailor the purple combination to your mood or outfit.
Playful Purple Waterline
A playful purple waterline is a fantastic, subtle way to inject color and personality into your everyday makeup routine. This technique uses a vibrant purple eyeliner pencil on the lower waterline (the inner rim of your lower eyelid) to make your eyes pop in an unexpected yet chic manner. The beauty of this look is its simplicity and impact. Keep your upper eyelid makeup light – a touch of neutral eyeshadow, a thin line of black or brown liquid liner, and mascara is often sufficient. Then, using a soft, kohl or gel eyeliner pencil in a bright purple (think a vivid violet or electric amethyst), carefully apply it along your lower waterline. This instantly brightens the whites of your eyes and adds a captivating, jewel-toned flash of color. It’s a fun and modern twist that adds intrigue without requiring extensive blending or multiple products, making it perfect for quick yet impactful makeup moments.
Jewel-Toned Purple Smoky Eye
Elevate the classic smoky eye with the opulence of jewel-toned purples. A jewel-toned purple smoky eye is all about creating a rich, multi-dimensional look using shades that mimic precious stones like amethyst, sapphire, and ruby, often infused with metallic sheens. This is a truly luxurious and sophisticated take on purple makeup, ideal for glamorous evenings. Start with a primer and build a base with a matte deep purple or plum eyeshadow. Then, introduce a shimmery or metallic jewel-toned purple on the center of the lid, blending it outwards. For added richness, consider incorporating a touch of gold, bronze, or even deep emerald green into the inner corner or along the lower lash line to create a stunning contrast and jewel-like sparkle. Blend thoroughly for a soft, diffused smoky effect. A tight-lined upper lash line with black eyeliner and voluminous lashes will complete this decadent look, making your eyes shimmer with an almost ethereal glow.
Key Takeaways for Purple Makeup
Mastering purple makeup involves a few essential considerations to ensure your look is polished and purposeful. Firstly, consider your undertones. Cool purples with blue hints (like amethyst or periwinkle) complement cool skin tones, while warmer purples with red hints (like orchid or plum) flatter warm skin tones. However, makeup is about experimentation, so don’t be afraid to break these rules!
Secondly, blending is paramount. Purple, especially darker shades, can look harsh if not blended seamlessly. Use fluffy brushes to diffuse edges and create soft transitions. Thirdly, balance is crucial. If you’re going for a bold purple eye, keep your lips and cheeks more subdued. Conversely, if you’re making a statement with purple lips, opt for a simpler eye look to avoid overwhelming your face. Finally, don’t underestimate the power of primer for purple shades; it enhances vibrancy and longevity, particularly for those rich, deep hues.
Purple Makeup Dos and Don’ts
Dos
- Do experiment with different shades:Â From pastel lavender to deep plum, find the purples that truly speak to your style and complement your features.
- Do use an eye primer:Â Especially with vibrant or dark purples, a good primer will ensure the color pops and stays put all day or night.
- Do blend, blend, blend:Â Harsh lines can detract from an otherwise beautiful purple look. Take your time to diffuse edges.
- Do consider your outfit:Â Purple makeup can complement neutral outfits or pick up subtle purple tones in your clothing for a cohesive look.
- Do choose complementary lip and cheek colors:Â Nudes, soft pinks, or peaches often work best to balance a purple eye.
Don’ts
- Don’t be afraid of sparkle:Â Purple and glitter or shimmer are a match made in heaven.
- Don’t neglect your brows:Â Well-groomed brows frame the face and complete any eye makeup look.
- Don’t use purple on tired eyes:Â Certain purple tones can sometimes accentuate redness or dark circles, especially if they have strong red undertones. Use color corrector if needed.
- Don’t forget mascara:Â It’s the finishing touch that ties the eye look together.
- Don’t limit purple to just eyes:Â Explore purple blushes and lipsticks for a full spectrum of purple beauty.
Accessorizing Your Purple Makeup Look
Just like any fashion statement, purple makeup can be enhanced and harmonized with the right accessories and styling choices. When you opt for a bold purple eye or lip, consider your overall ensemble. For a dramatic purple eye, keep jewelry minimal and elegant – perhaps delicate silver or gold studs, or a simple necklace, to allow your eyes to be the focal point. If you’re wearing a softer lavender or periwinkle eye, you can be more playful with accessories, perhaps choosing a statement earring or a vibrant scarf that subtly echoes the purple hue.
Clothing choices also play a role. Neutrals like black, white, grey, and beige provide a sophisticated backdrop, allowing your purple makeup to truly stand out. Alternatively, you can create a harmonious look by pairing purple makeup with outfits that have subtle purple undertones or even direct purple accents. For jewel-toned purple looks, consider metallics in your outfit or accessories – silver, gold, and rose gold all beautifully complement purple shades. The goal is to create a cohesive narrative where your makeup, accessories, and outfit work together to tell your unique style story.
Conclusion
Purple makeup is far more than just a trend; it’s an expression of artistry, confidence, and individuality. From the softest lavenders to the most intense plums, each shade offers a distinct personality and a chance to transform your look. Whether you’re drawn to a delicate wash of color, a dramatic smoky eye, or a bold lip statement, the world of purple is rich with possibilities waiting to be explored. Don’t shy away from this magnificent hue; instead, embrace its versatility and let it infuse your beauty routine with an unparalleled touch of elegance and intrigue. With these 15 ideas as your guide, you’re now ready to experiment, create, and confidently wear the captivating power of purple.
