Not all eyeshadow colours are created equal.
That's not to say there are any strict rules to wearing eyeshadow.
You can wear whatever the heck you want.
However, certain tones and shades work better for amber, green, brown, blue, and hazel eye colours.
So if you've been asking yourself "what eyeshadow should I wear?", you've come to the right place.
In this guide we’ll explain which colours work best for which eye colours and give some product suggestions to try along the way.
If you’re looking for an eyeshadow for amber eyes, try the following advice...
‘Bronzes and golds really draw out the yellow tones in the eyes,’ says makeup artist Nicole Thompson.
‘Metallic finishes in golds and bronzes add that extra twinkle.’
Or, for something entirely different, go with an aqua colour to brighten the appearance of your peepers.
One to try: When it comes to an eyeshadow for amber eyes, we suggest trying theBalm AutoBalm Day 2 Nite Eye Palette
Why it's so good: This gorgeous palette features gold, bronze, and even aqua eyeshadow to draw attention to your eyes.
Hazel eyes are a beautiful blend of green and brown.
Thompson suggests the following colours as the best eyeshadow for hazel eyes.
‘Anything in the golden green wheelhouse brings out the warmth in your hazel eyes, making it pop.’
This means the perfect eyeshadow for hazel eyes includes shades such as moss green, emerald green, and golden green.
‘Even a simple yellow-gold shadow can bring out the yellow flecks in those hazel eyes,’ continues Thompson.
Looking for something entirely different? ‘Opposite to green on the colour wheel is purple, so [try] lavender, violet, and plum in either an eyeliner or shadow.’
One to try: One of the best eyeshadow palette for hazel eyes is Pixi Dream Shadow Palette- Eye Enchanter
Why it's so good: We love this palette as it includes a green tone along with purple shades to experiment with.
If you’re on the lookout for the best eyeshadow colours for brown eyes, follow this advice.
‘Brown eyes are lucky as they can really go with any colour,’ explains Thompson.
‘Blue is a super-fun one to try with brown eyes to bring them out. Opt for a blue-toned grey for a more natural look. Or have a go at baby blue or electric blue to really get them popping!’
One to try: We recommend Lancôme Hypnôse Eyeshadow Palette 15 Bleu Hypnotique for the best eyeshadow palette for brown eyes.
Why it's so good: It features five shimmering shades including a sharp electric blue to make heads turn.
As for the best eyeshadow for blue eyes, Thompson recommends trying these tones.
‘Think oranges or orange-toned browns, rust metallics, peaches, and burgundy warm browns [for this eye colour].
Baby pinks and blush hues work well against blue [eyes] too!’
Want to try the look on yourself?
One to try: One of the best eyeshadow palettes for blue eyes we’ve come across is the ICONIC London Nice to Naughty Eyeshadow Palette
Why it's so good: This generous selection features those eyeshadow colours for blue eyes that Thompson recommends.
Now we’re going to move on to the best eyeshadow for green eyes.
‘I absolutely love matching green [eyes] with a green shimmer shadow to amplify and enhance [the eye colour],’ says Thompson.
In this case, some of the best eyeshadow shades for green eyes include bright emerald, matte chartreuse, and deep jade green.
For an eyeshadow combination for green eyes that’s totally different, ‘Purple is a winner here,’ says Thompson.
‘Purple is actually universally flattering, but it really gives green eyes their moment. So try plums, mauves, and pure, poppy violet purple.’
Want a recommendation for a good eyeshadow for green eyes?
One to try: An eyeshadow palette for green eyes that we’ve got our heart set on is the Kryolan 18 Eye Palette - V2 Brights
Why it's so good: This colour wonderland features a multitude of bright shades to play with.
Now you should be well equipped to shop for eyeshadow to match—or clash with—your eye colour.
Still interested? Find more of our favourite eyeshadow products in the guides below...
Brand and product inclusions are at the sole discretion of Adore Beauty. We do not seek or accept payment from brands or individuals listed in our guides.
