Yes, you can wear colourful eyeshadow if you’re over 40. You’ve just got to apply it the right way

In the old days (before Covid), there were style rules for women over ‘a certain age’. Wear too many colours at once and you look a bit batty; bold, red lipstick and you’re thought of as brazen; blue eyeshadow and you’re stuck in a rut. But that was then. Thankfully we are well and truly back to occasion dressing and the rule books no longer apply. 

I first had the inclination to adorn my eyes in technicolour when singer Dua Lipa appeared at last year's Grammys with purple eyelids, then Lady Gaga followed suit at the House of Gucci premier with a matching purple frock. On the red carpet drama is welcomed, but can you wear strikingly bright eyeshadow over 40?

Yes...with a tasteful caveat or two. Choose a shadow without sparkle, as that tends to highlight creases and lines. Then apply to the eyelids only, as this looks cooler than extending the colour above the crease line.

I’ve taken to using my finger and gently pressing the colour in, which seems to give a more dense finish and avoids smudges. If you prefer tools, make sure to flick your brush on to the back of your hand before you strike your eyes to release some of the pigment, and build up in very fine layers for a seamless finish. 

As for colour, anything goes. Honestly. It’s more important that you choose a finish that is a cinch to apply and that won’t drop beneath your eyes. I tend to prefer cream shadows or one of the new spongy textures that are more or less idiot-proof. I’ve even been known to apply a brick-coloured matt lipstick to my eyelids for a tonal look that I find surprisingly chic. 

For more impact, line your waterline (the inside rim of your eye) with a black or brown pencil. Victoria Beckham's Kajal eyeliner in olive is a flattering option or Charlotte Tilbury's new Pillow Talk pencil is worth trying too. Don’t forget mascara, as it is the frame to your artwork, and remember to keep foundation minimal, which leaves skin looking real and youthful. 

If you are using powder eyeshadow, I suggest applying a primer first, such as NYX’s HD Eyeshadow Base, which acts like an undercoat, making it truer and longer-lasting. As I have green eyes, I favour plum and pink shades. Turquoise looks stunning on brown eyes, and green too. Blue eyes come alive with warm terracotta hues, but I promise you, there is no better colour than the one you feel good in. 

Match your lipstick to your eyes, or go nude for a contrast – anything goes. These are my favourite grown-up bright eyeshadows. 

This guide is kept updated with the latest advice.

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