How to Make Green Eyes Stand Out

Co-authored by Shun Pittman

Last Updated: December 28, 2022 References

If you have green eyes, you probably consider them one of your best features. However, it can sometimes be difficult to make them stand out. You might be looking for ways to make your green eyes more of a "wow" factor. There are several steps you can take to make your green eyes stand out.

Method 1

Method 1 of 2:

Applying Makeup Effectively

1
Use the right colors. You can make your green eyes pop by applying different shades of eye color. Typically, cool shades of purple shades look fantastic on green eyes.^{[1]
X
Expert Source

Shun Pittman
Master Cosmetologist, Global Salon Educator & Author
Expert Interview. 14 April 2021.} Try some shades of plum or violet.
- Pinks can also really help draw attention to your eyes, too. Try blending a lighter and darker shade for a dramatic effect.
- Shadows with a gold tone can help make hazel eyes look more green.
- Don't be afraid to experiment with different shades. Try going to a department store and asking the salesperson if you can try some samples. Samples are a great way to try new products without spending any money.
2
Create a smoky eye. The smoky eye is one of the hottest looks in makeup right now. Not only is it trendy, but it really emphasizes green eyes. Try some new eye shadow tips to create this effect.^{[2]
X
Research source}
- Begin by applying a dark gray shadow just above the crease in your eyelid. Use a medium sized eye shadow brush to brush this color in an arch-shape. With your finger or the brush, blend the shadow downwards.
- Use a soft black eyeliner to outline your upper lash line. Using your finger or a small eyeshadow brush, blend this line.
- With your smallest eye brush, apply a lighter gray shade along your lower lash line. Blend.
- Apply the paler gray shadow over the outer half of your top lid, blending it into the other colors.
- Apply a light silver shadow to the inner corner of your eyelids. This will make the overall effect look a bit brighter.
Advertisement
3
Emphasize your lashes. Think of your eyes as the picture and your lashes as the frame. To draw attention to your gorgeous green eyes, you want to create a suitable frame. Focus on your lashes to help emphasize your eyes. Expertly applying mascara is the best way to do this.^{[3]
X
Expert Source

Shun Pittman
Master Cosmetologist, Global Salon Educator & Author
Expert Interview. 14 April 2021.}^{[4]
X
Research source}
- Choose a mascara that creates the effect you want: longer lashes, volume, or both.
- It usually takes 2-3 coats to achieve lush-looking lashes. If you really want volume, try false eyelashes.
- Don't use old mascara. Using a product that is past its prime is the main reason people end up with clumpy, flaky lashes. Get a new mascara every 6 months.
4
Define your eyebrows. Tweeze your eyebrows once a week, cleaning up the arch and removing any stray hairs from the inner and outer corners. Fill in any patchy areas with powder or a pencil, and use a clear brow gel to set brows and hold them in place.
- Neat, well-defined brows draw attention to your green eyes and make them look larger.
5
Keep your skin healthy. You want your eyes to shine, and in order for them to look their best, you should practice good skin care. Taking care of your facial skin is key to making all of your features (including your eyes) look their best. Make it a habit to practice a good skincare routine every day.^{[5]
X
Trustworthy Source
Mayo Clinic
Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals
Go to source}
- Protect your skin from the sun. Use a moisturizer that contains at least 20 SPF, even if it's not a sunny day.
- Cleanse your skin morning and night. Make sure to gently pat dry with a clean towel.
- Practice healthy habits. Get enough sleep, and eat a healthy diet. Your skin will show it.

Method 2

Method 2 of 2:

Dressing for Your Eyes

1
Wear vibrant colors. In addition to your makeup, your wardrobe can help emphasize your eyes. There are several different colors you can wear to make your green eyes stand out.Try wearing shades of purple. Green eyes look lovely with both plums and lilacs.^{[6]
X
Research source}
- You can also emphasize your eyes by wearing deep greens, yellow, and coral. For a complementary look, choose colors that look nice with your skin tone. If your skin is warm, yellow or coral may look best. Cool skin tones will be flattered by violet or grape shades.
- If you have hazel eyes, there are specific shades you can wear to bring out the green. Try dark neutral colors (think gray), lavender, and burgundy.
2
Wear white. Wearing a sparkling white can help your green eyes be the star of your look. Try wearing all white, but experimenting with texture and fabrics. During the summer, a simple white sheath looks cool and elegant.
- Forget the old adage that says not to wear white after labor day. A luxurious winter white can make your green eyes glow.
- Gray and black can also provide a neutral backdrop to illuminate your emerald eye color.
3
Accessorize. Don't limit yourself to clothing when you are dressing for your eyes. Accessories can play a big role in emphasizing your eyes. Try wearing a scarf that is the same shade of green as your eyes to make them stand out. A stylish hat can also complete your look and draw attention to your face--and eyes.^{[7]
X
Research source}
- Earrings are a good way to draw attention to your eye area. Studs are classic and look great on everyone. Larger earrings can also be a great statement piece. Green eyes tend to look good with gold tones, so try to find some gold or bronze pieces.
- The right glasses can really show off your eyes. Green eyes look great with the dark, modern frames that are currently in style.
4
Smile. Have you heard the old saying that your smile is your best accessory? It's true! Smiling draws attention to your face and your eyes. When you smile, your eyes will look warmer and more inviting.^{[8]
X
Research source}
- Take good care of your smile. Practice good oral hygiene to make your teeth shine as much as your eyes.
5
Finished.

Expert Q&A

Question

How do I bring out green eyes?

Shun Pittman
Master Cosmetologist, Global Salon Educator & Author
Shun Pittman is a Master Cosmetologist, Author, Owner, and Founder of Corps d’Elite Salon and Corps d’Elite Beauty. With over 25 years of international experience, she is dedicated to and specializes in providing luxury salon services to all hair types and textures and every skin tone and shade. Her services include hair conditioning treatments, cutting, coloring, styling, extensions, and makeup application. Shun has experience working with, coaching, training, and mentoring beauty professionals from multiple companies including L'Oréal, Wella, Matrix, Paul Mitchell, Redken, Big Sexy Hair, and Toni & Guy. She is also a host for national and local media outlets and her work has been featured in The Washingtonian, The Cheddar Network, and WJLA Good Morning Washington's Beauty and Fashion Police segments. Shun is the author of “50 Things Your Hairdresser Wants YOU to Know (and a few things we don’t...)".

Shun Pittman

Master Cosmetologist, Global Salon Educator & Author

Expert Answer

Accentuate your eyes by applying some mascara to make the green really pop.
Question

How can I make my eye color stand out?

Shun Pittman
Master Cosmetologist, Global Salon Educator & Author
Shun Pittman is a Master Cosmetologist, Author, Owner, and Founder of Corps d’Elite Salon and Corps d’Elite Beauty. With over 25 years of international experience, she is dedicated to and specializes in providing luxury salon services to all hair types and textures and every skin tone and shade. Her services include hair conditioning treatments, cutting, coloring, styling, extensions, and makeup application. Shun has experience working with, coaching, training, and mentoring beauty professionals from multiple companies including L'Oréal, Wella, Matrix, Paul Mitchell, Redken, Big Sexy Hair, and Toni & Guy. She is also a host for national and local media outlets and her work has been featured in The Washingtonian, The Cheddar Network, and WJLA Good Morning Washington's Beauty and Fashion Police segments. Shun is the author of “50 Things Your Hairdresser Wants YOU to Know (and a few things we don’t...)".

Shun Pittman

Master Cosmetologist, Global Salon Educator & Author

Expert Answer

Try complementing your green eyes with other cool colors, like blues and grays.
Question

What colors make green eyes stand out?

Laura Martin
Licensed Cosmetologist
Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist in Georgia. She has been a hair stylist since 2007 and a cosmetology teacher since 2013.

Laura Martin

Licensed Cosmetologist

Expert Answer

Contrast is best for making colors pop. So, red-based hues like pink, mahogany, or coral are great for emphasizing green eyes.