If you’ve been searching for a cheerleader makeup look that’s bold, eye-catching, and performance-proof, this one is perfect. Courage Cheer chose a makeup look with a pretty purple smokey eye paired with a classic red lip—a look that stands out under bright lights and looks great in photos.

This cheer makeup tutorial is easy to follow, making it perfect for cheerleaders who do their own makeup or moms helping their daughters get ready for performances, competitions, or even just practice runs at home.

Watch the full tutorial here!

If you are wearing magnetic lashes for your cheer look, you can watch my magnetic lash application tutorial here: 

What You’ll Need For This Look

• Courage Cheer Eyeshadow Palette (if you need an alternative let me know!)

• Dual-ended Eyeshadow Brush

• Foam tip eyeshadow applicator

• Black Eyeliner Pencil

• Matte Liquid Lipstick in Crimson Ray

• Optional: Magnetic Lashes

Step 1: Prime the Eyelids

Start with eyeshadow primer, patting it across your entire eyelid. This step ensures your eyeshadow stays in place and keeps the colors vibrant all day long—key for long cheerleading performances.

Step 2: Build the Smokey Base

Using the fluffy end of your eyeshadow brush, sweep navy matte eyeshadow across the crease of your eye in a back-and-forth motion. This creates the smokey base that makes the purple shades pop. Switch to the dome-shaped end, press more navy into the outer corner, and watch the depth build.

Step 3: Add Purple Shimmer

With a foam applicator or your fingertip, apply dark purple shimmer eyeshadow to the outer corner of your lid and blend it toward the center. Then place the lighter purple shimmer on the center of the lid, blending it toward the inner corner. This layering creates that signature cheerleader makeup shimmer effect that shines on stage.

Step 4: Blend It Out

Take a clean fluffy brush and sweep across the crease and inner lid to soften edges. If you want more intensity, add a little more dark purple on the outer corner or light shimmer on the center lid.

Step 5: Brighten the Inner Corner

Dip a Q-tip into white-gold shimmer eyeshadow and swirl it right into the inner corner of your eyes. This bright pop instantly opens up the eyes—a cheer makeup essential.

Step 6: Eyeliner + Mascara

Line your upper lash line from the inner to outer corner. Smudge it with an angled brush if you want a softer look, or add liner to the lower lash line for a more intense, competition-ready style. Finish with a couple coats of mascara to define and frame your eyes.

Step 7: Optional Lashes

For a complete cheerleader makeup finish, add lashes. Here’s how:

1. Apply a coat of magnetic liner from inner to outer corner.

2. Let it dry for a minute, then apply a second coat.

3. Place the lashes, starting in the center for even placement.

4. Gently press them into the liner so they stay secure throughout your performance.

Step 8: The Bold Red Lip

A red lip is a cheer classic! Wipe your lips clean before applying color. Skip balms or glosses underneath so your lip color stays transfer-proof. Once your lips are dry, apply a thin, even coat of red lip color.

The Finished Look

And there you have it—a bold purple smokey eye with a red lip. This cheerleader makeup look is designed to last through high-energy performances, giving your team a polished and professional appearance on the mat. Whether you’re getting ready for a big competition, a pep rally, or team photos, this performance makeup tutorial will help your athlete shine.