How to Choose the Best Colored Mascara for Your Eye Color

Looking for an easy way to switch up your eye makeup look? You could experiment with a new smokey eye, get creative with eyeliner, or try a bold eyeshadow shade. But one of the simplest ways to make your eyes stand out is to swap your usual black mascara for something a little unexpected.
From rich brown to vibrant blue and deep burgundy, colored mascara can instantly change up your look. And while you can wear whichever shade you love most, certain colors can really bring out your natural eye color. Read on to discover the best colored mascaras for brown, blue, green, and hazel eyes.

Colored mascara is a fun way to experiment with your makeup without completely changing your routine. Just as you might reach for a bold red lipstick or colorful eyeshadow, switching up your mascara shade is another way to express your personal style.

But it's not just about making a statement. The right mascara shade can also enhance your natural eye color, making brown eyes look richer, blue eyes appear brighter, and green eyes stand out. Plus, depending on the shade you choose, the effect can be surprisingly subtle. Sometimes, all it takes is the light hitting your lashes just right to reveal a playful hint of color.

The beauty of colored mascara? There's no wrong time to wear it. For a natural everyday makeup look, pair it with fresh skin, neutral eyeshadow, and a soft lip to keep things understated.

When the occasion calls for going full glam, turn up the drama by making colored mascara the focal point of your eye makeup. Pair your mascara with a coordinating eyeshadow shade for a bold, monochromatic look, or experiment with complementary eyeliner shades for even more impact.

When it comes to choosing the best colored mascara to wear for your eye color, take a cue from the color wheel. Shades that contrast with your natural eye color can help make your eyes pop, while similar tones can create a more coordinated look.

Of course, these aren't hard-and-fast rules. The best colored mascara is ultimately the one that makes you feel your best. You can also experiment with Maybelline's Virtual Try-On tool to explore different makeup looks. For a little inspiration, here are some of our favorite colored mascara shades for every eye color.

Brown eyes look gorgeous with just about any colored mascara, but blue shades are especially striking. For a vibrant pop of color, try Lash Sensational Sky High® Washable Mascara in Blue Mist. If you prefer something a little more understated, try Navy Records, a deep navy blue that beautifully complements dark brown eyes.

Have light brown eyes? Go for Green Altitude, a forest green shade that can help bring out golden and green undertones.

Have baby blues? You’re in luck! Warm brown tones create a soft contrast with blue eyes, helping their natural color stand out without the intensity of black mascara. Try Lash Sensational Sky High® Washable Mascara in True Brown for a flattering everyday look.

Prefer a waterproof formula? Lash Sensational Sky High® Waterproof Mascara in Brownish Black is another great option. And if you're in the mood for something bolder, don't be afraid to go blue on blue with Blue Mist for a playful, monochromatic effect.

Want to make green eyes pop? Reach for purple! With their contrasting undertones, purple and plum shades can help bring out the natural vibrancy of green eyes.

Try Lash Sensational Sky High® Washable Mascara in Plum Twilight, a dark purple shade that adds just the right amount of drama. It's a fun alternative to black mascara that can make your green eyes the center of attention.

Hazel eyes are a beautiful mix of brown, green, and sometimes gold, which means you've got plenty of options when it comes to colored mascara. The trick is deciding which tones you want to play up.

To highlight the green in your eyes, try Lash Sensational Sky High® Washable Mascara in Burgundy Haze. Its deep burgundy color creates a gorgeous contrast with green undertones. Or reach for Green Altitude to complement the green flecks in your eyes for a more tonal look.

Colored mascara can make a statement on its own, but pairing it with the right eyeliner can take your eye makeup look even further. For a coordinated look, try blue mascara with blue eyeliner or burgundy mascara with a complementary plum shade. Prefer something more subtle? Pair colored mascara with classic brown eyeliner to add definition while letting your lashes take center stage.

Ready to explore more color combinations? Head over to our guide to the best eyeliner colors & styles for every eye color, which includes an eyeliner-and-mascara pairing chart to inspire your next look.

Now that you’ve learned how to level up your look with colored mascara, we can’t wait to see how your eyes shine. Check out our selection of colored mascaras below, then share your makeup masterpiece with us on social media. Don’t forget to tag @Maybelline!