Hi all! I'm new here, and I'm new to makeup. Over the summer I've been experimenting with my face and brows and have found some basic routines that work for me, but I've been terrified to touch eyeshadow because all of my attempts in the past have come out just looking like mud.

My eyes most days are a single, subtle shimmer shade on my lids (usually applied with my finger), black liner, and mascara. I'd like to learn how to create neutral looks with multiple shadows but don't know what to look for.

• What palettes (or even individual shadow pots) would you recommend?
• Are there certain brands that you've found easier to work with and blend out than others? Better color or shimmer payoff? I'm less concerned about specific colors than I am quality of product, but if it helps, I have fair skin with neutral undertones and Maybelline Fit Me 112 is a perfect match (do you need to know undertones to shop for eyeshadow? Who knows? Not me.)
• What brushes would you say are essential to have starting out?

Please help me become less helpless. Happy to provide any additional information if it helps to make recommendations!