These Eyeshadow Sticks Simplify Any Makeup Look (2024)

Let’s face it, nailing a precise winged eyeliner or masterful cut crease takes a lot of practice. But what about those who don’t have much time on their hands or simply prefer a minimalist approach to accentuate the eyes? This is where the best eyeshadow sticks come into play.

“What’s not to love when it comes to eyeshadow sticks?” asks Bobbi Brown Cosmetics global artist in residence,Mali Thomas, who emphasizes their easy application, long-wear, and versatility. For these reasons, she says they’re beginner-friendly. “Most sticks are designed with a pointed or round tip which makes it easy to glide the formula onto the eyelids. Usually, eyeshadow sticks are cream-based, making it practical for those who struggle with powder eyeshadow.” Then, of course, is their impeccable portability. “They’re great on the go—no need for a makeup bag filled with eyeshadow palettes and brushes; just throw in a couple of sticks and you’re all set,” notes Bobbi Brown's global artistic director, Hannah Murray.

Both of the pros emphasize that there are no limits when it comes to playing with eyeshadow sticks. Because there aren’t really any hard and fast rules to stick to, anyone should be empowered to experiment no matter which color or pigment they choose.

On one hand, you could pick your eyeshadow stick with your skin tone or eye color in mind. “For example, if you have warm, rich undertones, I prefer using bronze and gold shades. For someone with green eyes, I like selecting shades that are more contrasting, like pink, purple, or brown,” Thomas says. Or you could pick up a few shades for different occasions. Murray recommends shimmering shades to anyone looking to update their makeup bag, as they can be used for a subtle glisten during the day and intensified for a smokey eye at night. (Another pro tip from Murray: “Use them either to create a base for eyeshadows and pigments, as a wash of color on the eyelid, or to line the eyes and smudge out to create more drama.”) Either way, you want to start with a clean, product-free eyelid—no primer necessary. In preparation for all the makeup looks to come, read on to discover the best eyeshadow sticks to upgrade your makeup bag.

Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Cream Shadow Stick

Both of our experts reveal their penchant for Bobbi Brown’s stick. “These sticks have saved my makeup looks in a time crunch on many occasions,” Thomas admits. They’re special to Murray for their “variety of textures—matte, shimmer, and multichrome, giving you the versatility of creating many different looks.” Shades Cinnamon, Mica, Golden Bronze, Forest, and Moonlight are a few of their favorites.

Chanel Stylo Ombre Et Contour

Part eyeshadow, part eyeliner, part khôl, this Chanel pick has all your eye-makeup needs covered. Creamy and blendable, this eyeshadow stick tip is just the right size for smooth application of fine lines or entire lid shading.

Victoria Beckham Beauty Eyewear

The latest addition to the marketplace comes from Victoria Beckham’s beauty lineup. Available in seven vibrant colors, Eyewear’s clean, creamy pigment glides effortlessly and even boasts crease- and waterproof wear for up to eight hours.

Laura Mercier Caviar Stick Eye Shadow

Laura Mercier’s eyeshadow stick is a classic for a reason: It’s a seamless, multitasking formula that imparts rich pigment wherever you place it. Though it’s transfer-proof and crease-resistant, the formula blends with ease for a soft wash of color or an in-depth look.

Charlotte Tilbury Color Chameleon

Of course Charlotte Tilbury delivers a color stick worthy of a spot on our list. Just take your pick of eight shimmering shades designed to enhance your eye color. For example, the shade Champagne Diamond best compliments blue eyes, while Golden Quartz accentuates hazel hues.

Sephora Collection Sephora Colorful Waterproof Eyeshadow & Eyeliner Multi-Stick

Sephora Collection’s multi-sticks are aVogue editor favorite, particularly to pick up a handful of colors at a fraction of the cost. With 24 shades across glitter, shimmer, and matte finishes, these jumbo pencils even double as eyeliner.

Urban Decay 24/7 Shadow Stick

Ready to sport bold eyeshadow colors this year? Whether it’s a bright cobalt blue or shimmering lime green, Urban Decay offers an array of high-pigment hues designed to resist fading and smudging.

Clinique Chubby Stick Shadow Tint for Eyes

For sheer, lightweight color, Clinique’s eyeshadow stick is the way to go. The formula is meant to be layered, meaning you can do a quick swipe before a busy workday or up the intensity ahead of date night.

By Terry Ombre Blackstar Eyeshadow

Those with a penchant for an inner corner highlight should look no further than this By Terry pick. The buildable formula is infused with Tahitian black pearl extract, which has smoothing and light-reflecting properties great for the delicate skin around the eyes.

Off-White Beauty Imprint Pigments

Off-White Beauty’s Imprint Pigments allow you to really get creative with your makeup looks. Offering six versatile creamy pigments for the face and body, its slim precision tip makes it easy to etch and blend to your liking.

Han Skincare Multistick

Who says your eyeshadow can’t double as blush? In a world of multipurpose makeup sticks, it’s easy to impart a uniform wash of color across the eyes, cheeks, and lips. One such product is Han’s all-natural Multistick, which features a nourishing blend of acai oil, shea butter, and organic olive oil to condition the skin wherever you place it.