Buzz
Use a neutral tone beneath the brow and a bold shade in the crease of your eye.
iStockphoto/ThinkstockYour style may speak volumes, but your eyes are the true storytellers. Beyond enhancing your lashes with mascara, you can make your eyes stand out by choosing eye shadows that perfectly match your eye color. For those with brown eyes, the options are almost endless. Brown, especially light brown, is the most versatile eye color, meaning nearly any shadow shade will suit you. But how can you achieve a stunning look?
Start by investing in a high-quality brush. Unlike the sponge applicators often included with eye shadows, a brush ensures smoother and more even application. There are four key areas to focus on when applying eye shadow: a neutral highlighter just under the brow, a darker accent color in the crease, a neutral shade on the lid, and a subtle touch of the darker accent above your eyeliner for added definition.
When choosing eye shadow hues, "opposites attract," advises Carmindy, a makeup artist from TLC's "What Not to Wear." Locate your eye color on a color wheel and explore the shades on the opposite side for complementary options. For brown eyes, Carmindy recommends deep blues and sapphires as accent colors for the crease, with a subtle smudge of the same shade above your eyeliner on the upper lashes and a touch below the lower lash line. Purples, pinks, aquas, and teals also work beautifully for light brown eyes. For a daring look, consider shades of green adjacent to your eye color on the wheel.
For the eyelids, opt for neutral tones, but keep in mind that neutrals aren't limited to beige. Champagne, pink, peach, and even orange can serve as neutrals. If your light brown eyes have golden flecks, choose eye shadows with a hint of gold shimmer to add extra brilliance.
Not every shade will suit every individual with light brown eyes. Your skin tone significantly influences how eye shadow appears. Soft pastels may complement fair skin but might not stand out on darker complexions. Similarly, a deep purple in the crease can look striking on tan or dark skin but may appear bruise-like on fair skin. Note: While dark brown eye shadow is a safe choice, it may not accentuate light brown eyes as effectively as bolder colors and could create a sunken effect.
Finding your perfect shades might require some experimentation, but that's where the fun lies!
