The 12 Best Glitter Eyeshadows, According to Beauty Editors and Makeup Artists

Bring on the shimmer.

assortment of the best glitter eyeshadows including hourglass and stila
(Image credit: Future)

For a good decade of my life, I've worn exclusively glitter pigments. I love sparkles—obviously. But my reasoning is a bit more nuanced. There is absolutely no eyeshadow easier and more foolproof to apply than one of the best glitter eyeshadows. No brushes necessary; it’s just a little finger application and, so long as you pick the right product, there’s no fallout in sight. As I’ve become more skilled in the makeup department, I’ve tried my hand at shimmery shadows with finer flecks and even experimented with liquid, sparkly formulas. One way or another, I have glitter on my lids every damn day. 

So with my very vast knowledge of glitter application and an overflowing pile of shadows, I’ve decided to compile the crème de la crème of glitter eyeshadows for your shopping pleasure. From finger-friendly, densely packed cream eyeshadow pots that create a statement-making eye in an instant to sheerer liquids that allow you to swipe on a chunky, albeit translucent wash, here are the best glitter eyeshadows in the game. 

Overview

What to Look For in a Glitter Eyeshadow

  • Glitter Size 

There’s nothing wrong with a metallic shadow—they have their time and place. But let me make this abundantly clear: Metallics and glitters are simply not the same. “You want your product to be super pigmented and super chunky,” says makeup artist Jonet Williamson. “You should be able to see individual specks.” It’s the differentiation between glitter flecks that allows the shadow to catch the light. 

  • Texture 

With powder, cream, and liquid glitter eyeshadow to choose from, the world is really your oyster. You can’t go wrong with any texture, just know that the medium will alter the finish. “Liquid glitters space out a lot once you actually put it on your lid, so you have to do a lot of work to pack it on and actually get good coverage,” says Williamson. “But I do really like liquids when you’re using them as an eyeliner.” Liquids are also the way to go if you just want a sparkly topper. 

Powders and creams on the other hand are best suited for a solid wash of color. “You can pick them up with a brush or your finger and it gives full coverage right away,” she adds. 

  • Blendability 

When using glitter shadows, you’re going to want something that gives you a little time to work. Fast-drying formulas aren’t your friend. “I personally like something that has a little more give,” says Williamson. “You don't want something that's going to lock in place. Then, the next thing you know, your eye makeup is messed up and you have to get micellar water.” 

How to Apply Glitter Eyeshadow

The key to fallout-free application is to start with a clean, no-fuss base. “Your lid naturally has a little bit of oil on it, so that's going to add to the grip of the glitter,” explains Williamson. “If you put down a powder first, you might get some fallout because it's not really sticking to your eyelid. You would have to pick it up with a wet brush and just hope for the best.” 

Where you place your glitter eyeshadow, however, is totally your call. You can layer different shades for a full glitter eye, place a little in the center of your lid, or dab some at the inner corner. “If you’re new to wearing glitter, I recommend picking it up on a really thin brush and apply it on top of your eyeliner,” advises Williamson. “It’s a fun way to add a little hint without being too intense."

The Best Glitter Eyeshadows

Meet the Expert

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Jonet Williamson

Jonet Williamson is a New York-based Pro Makeup Artist and Content Creator specializing in relatable beauty from a pro perspective. Her work has been featured in commercial campaigns for Dolce & Gabanna, Levis, L'Oreal, Shea Moisture, and more. If you follow her online you can expect to see lots of fresh skin, a vibrant use of color, striking graphic liner shapes, and soft glam looks fit for a red carpet.

Samantha Holender
Beauty Editor

Samantha Holender is the Beauty Editor at Marie Claire, where she reports on the best new launches, dives into the science behind skincare, and keeps up with the latest trends in the beauty space. She has previously written for Us Weekly, Popsugar, Makeup.com, Skincare.com, and Philadelphia Wedding. Follow her on Instagram @samholender.