Matte vs Metallic: Shadows and Blushers

Certain kinds of make-up always go in and out of fashion. Every season we hear that it's either "all about matte" or, "all about metallic", "shimmer and shine is in" while "velvet finishes are so yesterday".

And while it's fun to keep up with trends (or in my case, necessary) they usually don't have much baring on daily routines for women across the world. When it comes to our own make-up (remember when had a virtual rummage through each other's kits?), most of us know what we like and know what we don't. So in this piece I wanted to look not so much at the fashion impact of metallic and matte formulas but more the pros and cons, or the instances where they work well and times when maybe they may not be so flattering.

• Eyes

Metallic eye shadows can be so beautiful for evening make-up (and this tutorial is a great example) but they can prove tricky for anyone who's worried about fine lines as fall out from an eyeshadow can easily migrate to unwanted areas (em, no thanks!).

If that sounds like you then a cream sheen shadow such as Origins Ginzing collection (€23 available in ten shades) would work well or alternatively, a metallic flecked eyeliner will give the same effect as a metallic eye shadow, just without the hassle.

And another tip is instead of going for an all over colour, place the metallic shade in the centre of the lid to add a light reflective, spot light effect.

I'm a real fan of matte shades on eyes, they can lend a sophistication to your make-up but they can also have an unwanted "dry" or flat look to them.

To avoid this, try teaming matte eye shades with a glossy finish mascara such as Clinque's Naturally Glossy (€20) or Eyeko Black Magic (€21) or alternatively add the nude/peach shade of Stila Kajal eyeliner in Topaz (€17) along the waterline for a wide eyed look. Both these will give a contrast to the matte shadows, even if it is a subtle one. 

• Cheeks 

Shimmery blusher can give skin a lift when it catches the light which is one of the reasons why the likes of NARS Orgasm (€27) and Mac Mineralise blusher (€23) are so popular. But products like these can also pick up on and highlight (not in the good way) uneven skin texture.

For those who suffer with break outs around the cheek area or are concerned about making their complexion look uneven, a matte blusher will help to give a smoother appearance to skin. If you're worried that will start looking lack lustre, try using a cream or gel product such as YSL cream blush (€42) or Top Shop Cheek Jelly (€10) for a fresh faced feel. 

Are you a a fan of matte or metallic? Do you have different finish preferences for day and evening? Share with us int he comments!