How To Apply Eye Gems

Both Taylor Swift and Dua Lipa got it right: this summer, it's all about diamonds in our eyes. These tiny makeup gems add plenty of sparkle and texture to any eye look, whether you're going out on the town or want to look cute for your local coffee shop. You might think you need a ton of supplies or expertise to apply them but they're actually very beginner-friendly (I am proof of that!).

I've never been adventurous with my makeup but I knew a ticket to Taylor Swift's Eras Tour required something more than my usual smoky pink eyeshadow. Here's how I applied my eye gems for a night out, plus some tips to help you try it for yourself.

Image via Chloe Williams/B+C

The first time I had an event to wear eye gem makeup, I ended up doing a few trial runs. That way, I could figure out exactly where I wanted the gems to go. At first, I was nervous because the gems were just not sitting where I wanted them to. But I realized that placing the glue on your skin first, and then the gem on top of the glue, works much better. Once I started doing it that way, it became much easier and more accurate!

I waited to attach the rhinestones until I had already applied my setting spray so that the spray didn't fog any of the gems up. The setting spray also didn't mess with their stickiness at all.

Finally, I used my finger to transfer the gem onto my skin and then used an eyeshadow brush to press it firmly into the glue. This worked better for me than using tweezers, but try a few different methods until you find what you like best!

Image via florence by mills

Eye gems are the perfect way to complement interesting eyeliner. They add dimension, sparkle, and elevate the entire look with very little effort. Add some across your lid or near your tear ducts like Millie Bobby Brown does with the florence by mills All Eyes On You Face & Body Gems.

Image via Colourpop/@raincornelius

You can also use a string of individual gems, instead of eyeshadow, to draw attention to your crease. Apply them to nude lids or add a pop of color underneath!

Image via PaintLab/Free People

Not in the mood to deal with a dozen individual gems? Use a product like these PaintLab Crystal Blitz Eye Stickers instead. They'll give the exact same effect, but they're all one unit that you can attach together.

Image via Urban Outfitters

Think outside the box with multicolored gems in a variety of shapes. Festivals, concerts, girls' night out — eye gems like the UO Easy Peasy Face Gems are good for every occasion.

Image via Monstera/Pexels

Add just a touch of mischief with a single gem under each eye. Simple and easy, but still eye catching.

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Lead image via florence by mills

Chloe Williams serves as B+C’s Assistant Editor, entertainment lead, and resident Taylor Swift expert. Whether she’s writing a movie review or interviewing the stars of the latest hit show, Chloe loves exploring why stories inspire us. You can see her work published in BuzzFeed, Coastal Review, and North Beach Sun. When she’s not writing, Chloe’s probably watching a Marvel movie with a cherry coke or texting her sister about the latest celebrity news. Say hi at @thechloewilliams on Insta and @afangirlfirst on Twitter!