The Perfect Makeup for Your Eye Color, as Chosen by Pros

I typically prefer a skincare-focused and simple beauty regimen. A tinted moisturizer, dewy blush , and brown mascara has been my daily routine. However, when I feel like adding some excitement without using multiple products, I consistently rely on a single technique: enhancing my eyes with eye shadow.

Being someone who has green eyes, I enjoy making my eye color stand out by choosing hues that match well with green on the color spectrum (learn more about this later). To gather top advice for all eye colors, I consulted with professional makeup artists. Dani Parkes and Neil Scibelli for their expert advice.

I also introduced a couple of them I also added a few I also included some I also brought along a few I also had a few with me I also incorporated a few I also presented a few I also carried over a few I also made room for a few I also brought forth a few Cosmo Editors wearing various eye colors to discover the ideal eyeshadow hues. Continue scrolling to find the most complementary eyeshadow tones for brown, blue, green, and hazel eyes, along with top palette recommendations to purchase.

Green Eyes

First, let's discuss color theory. Red contrasts with green on the color wheel (similar to what you were taught in basic art classes during elementary school), which means colors near red will have the strongest effect on green eyes. "Shades such as rose gold, rich reds, and burgundies truly enhance green eyes," explains Scibelli.

Parkes also advises opting for purples and earthy browns. "These two shades will help green tones become more prominent, and applying a plum eyeliner along the waterline can enhance the brightness of your eyes further," she proposes.

Testers' feedback: I understand that red and green are opposites on the color wheel, yet this combination seems a little intense for me visually. I really appreciate how shades like plum and maroon offer that striking impact without being overwhelming. Applying a touch beneath my eye, without needing eyeliner, enhances the boldness of my green eyes. If I want to elevate any makeup style, a purple metallic eyeshadow is always my go-to choice. Plus, I can achieve this with just one single shade. — JASMINE HYMAN, ASSISTANT BEAUTY EDITOR

Hazel Eyes

Hazel eyes may appear green, golden, or brown based on lighting conditions, so embrace your distinct range of hues. "Shadows with a warm base enhance these hazel shades," explains Scibelli. "For example, golds, bronzes, and even pinkish shadows can highlight hazel eyes."

I suggest using a chocolate brown eyeliner or a plum-colored one for a more intense appearance," says Parkes. "This will help bring out the underlying tones in your eye color regardless of your overall makeup style.

Testers' feedback: I typically use eye makeup techniques to highlight either the green or brown hues in my eyes, though I haven’t often gone for an exaggerated look altogether. I truly enjoy using a shimmering golden eyeshadow across the whole lid, as it draws focus to the entire iris. One great thing about having hazel eyes is their blend of multiple shades, correct? When combined with reflective gold and warm peach tones, you don’t notice just one color, but instead appreciate the mixture of green and brown together.—BETH GILLETTE, BEAUTY EDITOR

Brown Eyes

People with brown eyes have the versatility to style almost any look, yet certain shades truly enhance their appearance. “Plums, greys, and rich olive eye shadow colors are always my favorites for brown eyes since they add depth and intensity,” explains Scibelli. “Warm bronze or copper hues—particularly those with a slight shimmer—are excellent at highlighting brown eyes,” notes Scibelli. “When working with brown eyes, I usually prefer grey, black, or very dark brown eyeliner,” he continues.

Testers' opinions: For over ten years, I've loved working with eyeshadows—particularly browns. With my petite, narrow eyes, I've discovered that blending neutral and warm brown tones effectively enhances their appearance without appearing overly intense or thick. Additionally, I tend to opt for a brown liquid eyeliner rather than black; this choice adds a subtle lift to my eyes while maintaining a gentler, more authentic aesthetic.—MEG UY, ASSOCIATE SHOPPING EDITOR I've had a passion for eyeshadows for more than a decade, particularly focusing on brown hues. As someone with small, narrow eyes, I've learned that combining neutral and warm browns can significantly enhance their look without coming off as too strong or overpowering. I also favor using a brown liquid liner instead of black because it provides a gentle lift to my eyes while keeping the entire makeup style soft and realistic.—MEG UY, ASSOCIATE SHOPPING EDITOR Over the past ten years, I've been passionate about eyeshadows—with a special preference for browns. My eyes are naturally small and narrow, so I've realized that layering neutral and warm-toned browns does wonders in making them appear brighter without seeming too bold or dense. Plus, I lean towards a brown liquid eyeliner over black since it offers a refined enhancement while ensuring the whole look remains delicate and genuine.—MEG UY, ASSOCIATE SHOPPING EDITOR

Blue Eyes

Orange is positioned across from blue on the color spectrum, which is why hues such as peach, copper, and bronze can enhance the appearance of blue eyes, making them appear more vibrant and distinct.

Several of my favorite eyeshadow hues for blue eyes include golds, champagnes, coppers, browns, and even warm peach shades," notes Scibelli. "For a bolder contrast or a night-time style, consider using dark eyeliner along with smoky shadows in colors such as grey and intense charcoal.

Testers' feedback: "The rumors are accurate: my eyes are blue, and they really stand out! Warm orange tones go well with blue (thank you, color theory), yet I usually think that vibrant, sunny shadows might be too strong for regular use and could appear sharp against my light skin. I truly enjoy how peach shades offer a gentle touch suitable for every day, while still highlighting the blue effectively," —KAYLA KIBBE, ASSOCIATE SEX AND RELATIONSHIPS EDITOR

Ways to enhance your natural eye color:

Examine the color circle.

The initial step involves familiarizing yourself with the color wheel. Colors that are complementary to your eye color produce the most striking contrast, making your eyes appear more prominent. For instance, orange shades enhance blue eyes effectively, whereas maroon colors go well with green eyes. Brown eyes, on the other hand, offer greater flexibility. As they aren’t part of the traditional color wheel, they can harmonize with various tones such as warm coppers, olives, and different brown shades.

Use eyeliner and mascara.

Scibelli states, 'I enjoy applying a smudged eyeliner to enhance any eye hue—using a brown liner for lighter to moderate eye tones, and a black liner for darker eye shades.'

However, a basic eyeliner and mascara style can draw focus to any hue. "Another important advice is to lift the lashes and then apply eyeliner along the upper lash line tightly," says Parkes. "Creating a precise line on the lid is an essential part of any makeup regimen, which I perform for every one of my clients." Alternatively, consider using white or beige in the inner corner of the eye, she recommends. This technique can enhance the appearance of brighter, more alert eyes.

Use a shimmery eyeshadow.

"Metallic shades reflect light, which helps bring out eye colors," says Scibelli. Shimmering shadows add depth to your lid, focusing attention on your eyes and amplifying their inherent hue. Consider options like champagne, rose gold, copper, or bronze—these hues can either match or differ from your eye color, making your irises more noticeable.

For added effect, gently apply a touch of sparkle to the middle of the eyelid or the inner eye corners to immediately enhance brightness and make your eyes look more awake.

Meet the Experts

Neil Scibelli is a makeup artist based in New York City and serves as an on-air beauty expert.
Dani Parkes , aka @facesbydanii is a makeup artist based in New York City with clientele such as Gabby Windey, Hannah Berner, and others.

Why trust ?

Jasmine Hyman is the assistant beauty editor at Cosmo where she discusses the top makeup products and current styles. In this article, she consulted with professional makeup artists Neil Scibelli and Dani Parkes to gain their perspectives and advice. She, together with her team Cosmo, determined the top cosmetics for every eye hue