The Best Makeup for Blue Eyes, According to Makeup Artists (2024)

There are no real rules when it comes to makeup—that’s part of the reason we love it so much. It’s the ultimate form of self-expression; when it comes to your face, you can do whatever you want. But sometimes, that freedom can be a bit overwhelming. You might know what you want from your makeup—impart a sunkissed glow, draw attention away from that mega-zit, last through your sweaty subway commute—but not exactly how to do it.

And for those lucky enough to sport blue eyes, we’re willing to bet you’ve turned to makeup at one point or another to really play up those bad boys. According to celebrity makeup artist and global head of artistry at Stila Cosmetics, Charlie Riddle, choosing the right shades of eyeshadow, liner, and mascara is one of the easiest ways to enhance blue eyes. From berry mascaras to peachy shadows, read on for the best eye makeup picks to make those baby blues pop.

Best Makeup Colors for Blue Eyes

Choosing the right eyeshadow shade is one of the best and easiest ways to enhance blue eyes—really, any color eyes—and all it takes is a little bit of color theory. Luckily, you’re probably familiar with the strategy thanks to elementary school art class.

According to Riddle, it’s all about utilizing complementary colors on the color wheel. For those unfamiliar (or just in need of a refresher), complementary colors sit opposite each other on the color wheel, while analogous shades sit next to each other.

In this case, red and orange tones are opposite blue on the wheel. If that sounds a bit bold for your style, don’t worry, it translates slightly differently to eye makeup. Riddle suggests using the hues as a guide for undertones, and opting for shades of copper, brown, gold, and peach to enhance blue eyes. In other words, look for earth-toned shadows and liners to enhance blue.

“A lot of times, less is more with blue eyes,” he warns. “Light eyes tend to easily contrast more so even a subtle hint of color will enhance rather than overpower.”

Best Eyeshadow for Blue Eyes

To cover your bases, we suggest investing in a neutral eyeshadow palette with shades of, you guessed it, copper, brown, gold, and peach. We’ve been eyeing Huda Beauty Nude Obsessions Eyeshadow Palette ($32), which includes five matte shades and four shimmery toppers in rose gold, copper, and coral hues.

If you’re looking to make a bolder statement, consider a monochrome eye moment. Simply dust on a shadow in the same color family as your eyes. For blue eyes, try Colourpop Super Shock Shadow ($7) in the shade Coconut, a bright satin-y teal. If that feels a bit intimidating, opt for an icier shade of blue, like the shade Moon Daisy, which features flecks of baby blue and silver shimmer.

For those looking to go even more natural, you can even pop on a subtle wash of whatever blush you’re wearing that day on your lids—it’ll help your baby blues stand out and make your entire face look more cohesive.

Best Eyeliner for Blue Eyes

To really make those baby blue eyes pop, Riddle also suggests swapping out the usual black liquid liner with a dark brown hue instead. We like Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Liner ($24) in Dark Brown.

Kevin Kodra, global makeup artist and digital educator at Nudestix, has a similar technique when it comes to enhancing a blue gaze.

He recommends running a brown eye pencil along the upper and lower lash line. We like Nudestix Magnetic Eye Color Pencils ($27) in Chocolate, a matte, medium brown; Immortal, a deep bronze with a satin finish; or Cocoa, a true cool-toned, dark brown. Whichever you choose, start by lightly rimming the eyes, and add intensity as needed. For something super low maintenance, opt for Thrive Causemetics Brilliant Eye Brightener in Emma, a shimmery copper. This multitasking cream-to-powder highlighter stick can be used as a wash of shadow of the lids, a liner, or a highlighter to open the inner corner of your eyes.

Best Mascara for Blue Eyes

Like Riddle suggested for eyeliner, consider swapping out your usual black mascara for a lighter brown hue. Unlike an inky black, brown mascara gives a bit of a softer effect and really lets blue eyes pop. Thrive Causemetics Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara ($25) adds length and comes in both a brown and deep blue hue that are equally stunning on blue eyes.

If you’re open to experimenting, consider a berry, burgundy mascara shade—it actually comes off fairly neutral on the lashes and will go a long way to play up your blues. Try Charlotte Tilbury’s Pillow Talk Push Up Mascara ($29) in Dream Pop, a perfect berry brown hue.

Hunting for a bargain? This drugstore fave—Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Lengthening Mascara in Blue Mist ($10)—is a clear winner. The electric blue pops on even dark lashes and it lengthens them without clumping.