Should You Match Your Eyeshadow to Your Eye Color?

Beauty - LFW September 2016/Nicky J Sims/Getty Images

Eyeshadow can be transformative and expressive. From subtle neutral hues for day to smoky, sultry shades for night—and everything in between—a swipe of color on your lids can change your look and reflect your mood.

Here's the million-dollar question: Should you match your eyeshadow to your eye color? Well, there are many opinions out there about this low-key controversial topic. While certain colors really can make your eyes pop, the truth is there are no rules and anything goes. Feel like rocking glittery-green with blue eyes? Put it on. How about icy silver on brown eyes? Go for it. If you'd rather color within the lines and stick to what looks indisputably pretty, that's cool, too; here's how to choose an eyeshadow that complements your eye color.

The Best Shades for Blue Eyes

Orangey earth tones and rich browns enhance blue eyes. Shimmery grays, including silver, are also super flattering. If your eyes have a touch of gold in them, bronze and gold shades can bring those out. For drama, some blue-eyed beauties love a dark, smoky eye because it truly does make light eyes pop.

Try: Huda Beauty Obsessions Eyeshadow Palette ($27) in Warm Brown

Versatile Eyeshadow Colors for Brown Eyes

All you brown eyes out there are lucky. You can get away with wearing almost any eyeshadow color— purple, blue, green, bronze, you name it. Lighter brown eyes are especially beautiful with blue eyeshadow. If you have gold flecks, a shimmery gold looks dreamy.

Try: Dior 5 Couleurs Eyeshadow ($62) in Dream Matte

Complementary Hues for Green and Hazel Eyes

For a natural look, green and hazel eyes go well with neutral pinks, taupes, and even earthy hues with reddish undertones or hints of gold. Shades of purple, from lavender to eggplant, create a gorgeous contrast.

Try: Charlotte Tilbury Luxury Eyeshadow Palette ($53) in The Vintage Vamp

Shades That Make Gray Eyes Pop

Mysterious gray eyes are similar to blue eyes but are partial to complementary hues like silver, gunmetal, or icy blue shades. This might seem limited, but it's such a striking look. If you want something bolder, don't be afraid to experiment.

Try: Surratt Beauty Artistique Eyeshadow ($20) in Enchanteresse

The Best Tips for Putting On Eyeshadow

Eyeshadow primer is your friend. Before you color your lids, smooth some on. It helps maximize the pigmentation of your shadow, prevents creasing, and ensures that your makeup stays put all day long. Primers come in many forms, from clear gels to tinted creams that are easy to apply.

Try: Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion ($24) in Original

Last thing: Have fun with your eyeshadow, and feel free to get creative. Don't be limited by color wheels and palettes. Makeup is meant to enhance your beauty and also be a form of self-expression. If your style is more mellow, that's valid, too. Just do you. That's the best look.

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