Glossy Lids, Textured Metallics, and the Return of Maximalist Eye Makeup

How to Get the Textured Eye Look

Playing with textures is one of the best ways to switch up your look, and there’s plenty of ways to experiment. 

When creating a glossy or lacquered eye look, Briceno recommends starting with a minimal base. “Usually, that’s a cream shadow or just softly neutralized lids, so the texture stays smooth and reflective,” he says. “Then, I tap a gloss or eye lacquer onto the center of the lid, where I want the light to hit most.” Keeping the layer thin and controlled is important, he adds. “Too much product is what makes it slide around and look messy instead of intentional.”

When it comes to metallic eye looks, placement is everything. “I like to press metallic shadows onto the lid with my fingertip instead of overblending with a brush because it keeps the finish more reflective,” says Briceno. “Metallics look best when the texture stays smooth and saturated rather than being diffused too much.” He recommends opting for finely milled metallic products that look smooth and sleek, as chunky shimmer can read as gritty and emphasize undesired texture. To keep your look elevated, we recommend the DANESSA MYRICKS BEAUTY Colorfix Foils, which offer buildable, waterproof pigment—perfect for all-day wear.

To prevent creasing or melting of any textures, Briceno says to keep layers light. “These textures look best when they feel slightly effortless, not overloaded with product,” he adds. “You’ll never eliminate movement with glossy textures because that lived-in effect is part of the look, but you can control it.”

With glossy lacquered looks, the biggest mistake you can make is applying too much product. Keep the gloss concentrated mainly on the mobile lid (the area between your lashes and the crease) and avoid taking it too high into the crease, says Briceno. He likes starting with a lightweight cream shadow underneath, since it gives the gloss something to grip onto without it feeling heavy.

For metallics, try prepping with a thin eye primer or cream base, which will help the pigment hold better and keep the finish smooth throughout the day. Pressing metallic shadows into the lid instead of sweeping them around also helps prevent fallout and patchiness, explains Briceno. 

How to Wear the Editorial Look

Textured looks can lean more editorial, but there’s a way to wear them outside of a magazine spread. “The easiest way to make textured eyes feel wearable is to simplify the placement—you don’t need a full glossy lid or a dramatic metallic shape for the look to have impact,” says Briceno. “For daytime, I like tapping gloss only into the center of the lid, or pressing a soft metallic shade close to the lash line so it catches light more subtly.” To make everything feel more effortless and less “done,” keep the edges softer, he adds. “It’s really about choosing one reflective detail and letting it be the focus, rather than layering too many strong elements together.”

You can style your glam any way you like, but because textured eyes bring the drama, Briceno recommends complementing the look with more natural makeup that feels soft and skin-focused. A subtle base works well because the eyes are already catching light and adding dimension. “I prefer keeping the skin fresh and light, rather than using a heavy, matte foundation,” he adds. “A softly diffused cream blush is my favorite—a little warmth on the cheeks keeps the face modern and effortless.”

Briceno’s favorite brows stay natural and have movement, as overly sculpted brows can make the look feel too heavy (or potentially distract from your eye look). For lips, he leans toward softer and more blurred looks like a satin nude lipstick, sheer balm, or diffused lip stain. Personally, we love the THRIVE CAUSEMETICS Sheer Moisturizing Matte Lip Tint in shade Nancy.

Final Thoughts

Textured eye looks are the perfect way to embrace your maximalist side. With a quick tap of a finger—and strategic product placement—it’s easy to get a glossy lid or metallic sheen. Just make sure to prep your eyes with a lightweight primer or cream shadow to get the texture to stick, and always keep layers light. Pairing your glam with dewy skin or a blurred lip balm will keep all the focus on your eyes. “If the eyes are reflective, you want the overall makeup to feel breathable and balanced,” Briceno says. “The key is keeping the look elevated rather than overdone.” 

Ultimately, you should wear the look that makes you feel most “you,” since that’s the one you’ll feel most confident in. Whether you go glossy, metallic, or lacquered, your glam will surely turn heads (and spark compliments). For more ideas on how to wear the look (and what to wear it with) check out our tried-and-true product recommendations at IPSY Shop.