Pro MUAs Share The Most Flattering Eyeshadow For Each Eye Color

Eyeshadow is a powerful tool to have in your makeup kit — but learning how to use it well is another story. Although there are a few important tips to keep in mind when applying this notoriously difficult-to-get-just-right makeup (like leaving the inner eye corner lighter and starting the crease a bit higher if you have hooded eyes), there’s one super-simple step you can get right without skill: wearing great colors that complement your eye color. Whether you’re a brown-eyed beauty or a blue-eyed charmer, Carina Conway, professional makeup artist at J-Beauty, shares the most flattering eyeshadow for each eye color. 

For those with blue eyes, soft brown, taupe and gray shades are the most flattering, Conway reveals. “For a more dramatic look, choose shades of purple, navy or deep green,” she said. “To bring out the blue in your eyes, try a light shimmery blue.”

Green eyes can appear so mysterious — and look even more amazing with shades of brown, plum and olive green. “To make your eyes pop, opt for shades of copper, champagne or bronze,” Conway said. “For an even more dramatic look, choose a bold shade of emerald green.” 

Hazel eyes (which can appear light brown or have flecks of green, yellow, and amber in them) look best with shades of copper, taupe, and brown. “To really bring out the yellow and green flecks in your eyes, try shades of golden brown, teal, or navy blue,” Conway shared. 

“For those with brown eyes, shades of purple, deep blue, and deep green are the most flattering,” Conway said. “To make your eyes pop, opt for shades of bronze, champagne, and copper. To add a bit of shimmer, choose a light, shimmery gold.”

No matter what eye color you sport, there are a few tips and tricks to bring out the best in your eye color. “The key is to blend colors together to create depth and dimension,” Conway said. “Start by applying a darker shade to your crease and blend it up, then add a medium shade on the outer corners and blend it in. Finish the look with a light shade on the inner corner of the eye and the brow bone. This will bring out the color of your eyes and make them appear brighter. With the right colors and techniques, you can create stunning eye makeup looks that will make your eyes stand out.”

Hopefully you’ll be inspired to branch out beyond black eyeliner and play with your makeup to really bring out your eye color.