Yellow eyeshadow is no longer just for avant-garde editorials — it’s quickly becoming a red-carpet favorite. In 2024, fashion retailer ASOS reported a 98% surge in searches for “butter yellow”, thanks to its runway and celebrity presence. Stars like Hailey Bieber, Emily Ratajkowski, and Sabrina Carpenter have been championing the shade in fashion — so why not bring it into your makeup routine?
Whether you’re drawn to soft pastel washes, bold graphic lines, or subtle accents, there’s a yellow look for every skin tone and comfort level. Here’s your complete guide, inspired by celebrity makeup moments, plus pro tips for recreating them.
1. Bold and Graphic Yellow Looks
Perfect for making a statement and turning heads.
Graphic Winged Shadow – Rhianne Barreto
-
The Look: Matte canary yellow packed to full opacity, extended into a sharp wing above the crease. Paired with black winged liner and an orangey-red lip for playful contrast.
-
Tip: Best on medium to deep skin with warm undertones. Pack the pigment; avoid over-blending to keep edges graphic.
Double Wings – Storm Reid
-
The Look: Light yellow liner extended into two exaggerated wings for a futuristic twist. Balanced with glowy skin and ombré lips.
-
Tip: Outline your wings first, then fill in. Keep lips neutral to let the eyes shine.
Mustard Extended Wings – Sarah Hyland
-
The Look: Mustard yellow swept from inner to outer corners with elongated flicks. Neutral base and thick lashes frame the look.
-
Tip: Use an angled brush for symmetry before filling with color.
Neon Cat Eyes – Iskra Lawrence
-
The Look: Neon yellow-green feline flick, full lashes, brushed-up brows, and rhinestone accents.
-
Tip: Lock in intensity with gel or pencil liner before topping with shadow.
2. Gradient and Blended Looks
Soft transitions for a more wearable pop of yellow.
Sunset Ombré – Margot Robbie
-
The Look: Saturated yellow at the lash line blending seamlessly into soft orange toward the brow.
-
Tip: Blend gradually for a smooth color transition.
Diffused Outer Corners – Rita Ora
-
The Look: Yellow concentrated above the crease at outer corners, blended upward for a halo effect.
-
Tip: Use a fluffy brush and keep pigment away from lash line for unique placement.
Matchy Soft Wash – Meghan Trainor
-
The Look: Neon yellow softly blended from lash line to crease, paired with nude lips.
-
Tip: Keep edges soft to avoid overpowering the face.
3. Accents and Highlights
A little yellow goes a long way.
Glitter Inner Corners – Rihanna
-
The Look: Glittery yellow-gold in inner corners, slightly blended onto lids, paired with neutral makeup.
-
Tip: Apply with a small detail brush; focus glitter on corners for modern appeal.
Pop of Yellow – Kat Graham
-
The Look: Opaque yellow inner corners paired with purple lids.
-
Tip: Build yellow gradually for impact; balance with matte lips.
Shimmery Yellow Liner – Elle Fanning
-
The Look: Shimmery yellow-gold along lash lines to complement gold accents in her outfit.
-
Tip: Tie the color to your wardrobe for a cohesive look.
4. Soft and Subtle Approaches
Perfect for color-shy makeup lovers.
Sheer Yellow Wash – Tracee Ellis Ross
-
The Look: Light wash of yellow across lids, paired with black cat liner.
-
Tip: Apply lightly with a fluffy brush for a sophisticated glow.
Subtle Inner Corner Highlight – Selena Gomez
-
The Look: Sheer shimmery yellow at the inner corners, kitten liner, and rosy cheeks.
-
Tip: Keep shimmer concentrated at corners to maintain subtlety.
Pro Product Picks for Yellow Eyeshadow Looks
-
For Bold Pigment: Matte Fluid Eye Paint in “It’s Blitz” (About-Face)
-
For Shimmer: Gold Rush Eyeshadow (NARS)
-
For Neon Impact: Pressed Pigment in “Electric Lemon” (MAC)
Final Thoughts
Yellow eyeshadow can be playful, glamorous, or quietly chic — it all depends on placement and intensity. Start with an accent if you’re unsure, or go all in with a graphic statement. Either way, you’ll be channeling the red-carpet confidence of your favorite celebs.