Choosing the right eyeshadow palette to match your eye colour can be the difference between a flawless look and a makeup disaster. Certain shades can really make your eyes pop while others won’t make the best of your features, so it’s important to get clued up on what’s right for you.
The eyes, of course, are the windows to the soul. They are usually the first aspect of a person we notice and take centre stage when it comes to makeup application. So why not up your makeup game and discover the perfect colour to get heads turning?
Thankfully there is somewhat of a formula when it comes to identifying your eyeshadow match and, with the array of colour options out there, it’s never been easier to achieve the perfect look no matter what colour your peepers are.
1. Brown Eyes
Ladies with brown eyes may share the most universally common eye colour, but they are actually at an advantage. So what colour eyeshadow should you be looking our for for brown eyes?
Brown is actually a mix of primary colours, so you have way more options when it comes to colour. For example, brown eyes can pull off vibrant blue eyeshadow tones like no other. Makeup artist Emily Kate Warren said: “An electric shade really makes brown eyes pop—I just love the contrast.”
For subtler looks, warm terracotta or reddish-brown/golden shades will add depth to brown eyes and are great for an everyday look. Metallic flecks in your eyeshadow also work beautifully for bringing out any golden tones you may have.
2. Green Eyes
Green-eyed girls are unique, and it can be difficult to find the right eyeshadow match. There is a lot of mixed information about the best makeup for green eyes, but in my experience, taupe is your friend! This gorgeous, natural colour has warmer undertones that will flatter green eyes. If you’re looking for more striking look, almost any purple shade will set green eyes off and create a bright, vibrant effect. I also love the deeper plum shades and you can experiment with some sparkly or metallic versions for a glamorous nighttime look.
3. Hazel Eyes
Good news! LA-based makeup artist Matthew VanLeeuwen says: “Hazel eyes are the middle ground between brown and green, which means you can pull off shades from both colour families.” Try using a brown base and layer with golden tones to really flatter your features. Light creamy shades and even forest green also works well and will highlight hazel eyes and there are endless possibilities for experimentation.
4. Blue Eyes
There are several options with eye makeup for blue eyes that will help bring out tones, whether sky blue or deeper navy. Terracotta or a warm rusty shade will really make your eyes stand out. Blue eyes can sometimes get lost in blue or green shadows, so accentuate them with a purple tone. My favourite is heather grey or taupe layered with plum, which intensifies colour and is guaranteed to make your blue eyes sparkle.
5. Black Eyes
Black and dark brown eyes have so much depth and mystery, so it’s important to bring out the best of them. In fact, you’re in luck because black eyes can work almost any shade with ease. Deep browns with golden flecks or royal purple will enhance depth and can be swept over the lid for a smokey effect. Blush pinks and silvers also look fantastic around black eyes and you can mix it up with eye-popping teal or turquoise. Perfecting the nude look with dark eyes (think Kim Kardashian) creates striking yet naturally beautiful eyes that will certainly capture everyone’s attention.