These Are the Best Eyeshadows for Green Eyes

by Kaitlyn McLintock
Kaitlyn McClintock contributed to Byrdie for over two years, most recently covering beauty news for the brand.
Updated 11/07/19

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Makeup is all about enhancing our natural features rather than covering them up; I think we can all agree on that by now. Even if we're swiping on a bold red lip, graphic cat eye, or vivid shade of eyeshadow, it's all about complementing what's already there—aka our faces.

Depending on our unique skin tone, hair, and eye color, though, certain shades of makeup can look particularly striking. We're talking about those magical days when you test out a new product and everyone around you offers endless compliments (we're not vain, we swear—it's just a nice feeling to find a product that works for us). Arguably, the impact is greatest when it's eyeshadow. There's something particularly beautiful about a strong and intense gaze. We've talked about the best eyeshadow shades for blue eyes and hazel eyes, but now it's time for green eyes.

Keep scrolling to see the best eyeshadow shades for green eyes, according to makeup artists.

Best Pink: Alima Pure Pressed Eyeshadow in Siren

Alima Pure in Siren

One of makeup artist Ashley Rebecca's favorite products is this shimmery pink shadow from natural and cruelty-free brand Alima Pure. You might not think of pink when aiming to enhance green eyes, but she says it's a must-try. "The pink really brightens green eyes and can sometimes bring out hidden tones of gold which are so beautiful," she says.

Best Gray: Clé de Peau Beauté Eye Color Duo in 106

Clé de Peau Beauté Eye Color Duo in Balance Gray

 Courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue

"For a dressier look," Rebecca says, "this duo shadow from Clé de Peau Beauté is gorgeous for green eyes and isn't something you would normally gravitate to, as most people go straight for bronze or dark brown hues." We love how the dark granite shade and light silver complement each other.

Best Metallic: Lancôme Sensational Effects Eyeshadow in Lustrous Opal

Lancôme Color Design Sensational Effects Eyeshadow - Style Section

 Courtesy of Bloomingdale's

Makeup artist and brow expert Stevi Christine agrees that metallic silver is a flattering and unexpected pairing against green eyes. "I love silver eyeshadow," she says. "It's a fun play for the holidays, and with a hint of shimmer, it's just perfect and pops on green-eyed girls' eyes." Try this Lancôme shadow single, which has a beautiful finish somewhere between metallic and shimmer.

Best Palette: Anastasia Beverly Hills Modern Renaissance Eyeshadow Palette

Anastasia Beverly Hills Modern Renaissance Palette

Christine also recommends a warm cranberry red (which we're obsessed with, by the way): "I love cranberry eyeshadow for green-eyed girls. If you're looking for a night on the town or attending a holiday event, a quick pop of color like cranberry will make all the difference. It is a showstopper and will pop on those green eyes indeed!" Apply any of the warm cranberry tones in this fan-favorite palette over the lid for a bold color juxtaposition.

Best Palette, Runner-Up: Morphe 25A Copper Spice Eyeshadow Palette

Morphe Copper Spice Eyeshadow Palette

Especially around the holidays, Christine says she loves to see green-eyed girls wear a shimmery copper shade, since "it just pops the eye color giving a beautiful warmth to their skin." Reach for this Morphe palette, which includes myriad versions of shimmery copper for all your holiday party looks.

Best Copper: MAC Eyeshadow in Amber Lights

MAC Eyeshadow in Amber Lights

Another copper shade recommendation comes from makeup artist Kristine Cruz. "Green eyes will really pop with this warm tone copper. It is vibrant and a switch from the traditional purple shades," she says.

Best Dark Purple: Milani Bella Eyes Gel Powder Eyeshadow in Bella Violet

Milani Bella Eyes Shadow

Speaking of traditional purple, green-eyed girls can't go wrong with it, no matter which shade they prefer. "Purple hues bring out the yellow in golden green eyes and the same for bringing out the flecks of green in hazel eyes," Cruz says. She recommends this royal purple shade for the ultimate party look.

Best Light Purple: NYX Professional Makeup Baked Eyeshadow in Violet Smoke

Nyx Baked Eyeshadow in Violet Smoke

 Courtesy of Walmart

If you prefer lighter, subtler shades over bolder colors, Cruz recommends this shimmery and delightful violet hue. The sheer and shiny finish will bounce light off your eyes, highlighting their green tone even more.

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