Coloured eyelashes offer a fantastic way to add a creative and personal touch to your makeup. Far from being reserved only for avant-garde looks, a hint of colour on your lashes can subtly enhance your natural eye colour and brighten your entire face. This simple switch from traditional black or brown mascara can redefine your look with minimal effort. Whether you're aiming for a discreet office-appropriate accent or a vibrant festival statement, learning how to incorporate coloured mascara into your routine is a simple yet effective way to express your style.
Choosing the Right Colour to Flatter Your Eyes
The key to successfully wearing coloured mascara is choosing a shade that complements your natural eye colour. The right hue can create a striking contrast that makes your eyes appear more vibrant and captivating. Think of it like applying colour theory directly to your makeup routine.
For Blue Eyes
To make blue eyes pop, opt for colours on the opposite side of the colour wheel. Warm, earthy tones like copper, bronze, and rich browns create a beautiful contrast. For a more subtle but equally effective option, a deep burgundy or plum mascara can intensify the blue tones in your eyes without being overly dramatic.
For Green and Hazel Eyes
Shades of purple are a green-eyed person's best friend. From amethyst and lavender to deep plum, these colours make green and the green flecks in hazel eyes appear incredibly vibrant. Burgundy and reddish-browns also work wonderfully to accentuate the green, creating a warm and alluring look.
For Brown Eyes
Brown eyes are incredibly versatile and can carry almost any colour. To create a striking look, try cool tones like navy, cobalt, or even an electric blue. For a rich, harmonious effect, shades of emerald or forest green can bring out any warm, golden undertones in brown eyes. Purples and burgundies also look stunning and offer a sophisticated alternative to black.
Subtle Application for a Chic Daily Look
You don't need a special occasion to experiment with coloured lashes. With the right technique, you can easily incorporate them into your everyday makeup for a subtle and polished finish.
- The Tip Technique: This is one of the most discreet ways to wear colour. Start by applying your usual black or brown mascara from root to tip. Then, take your coloured mascara and gently brush it onto only the tips of your upper lashes. This creates a subtle flash of colour that catches the light when you blink.
- Lower Lash Line Accent: For a modern and understated look, apply a neutral mascara to your top lashes and use a coloured mascara on your lower lashes only. A deep blue or plum works exceptionally well for this, defining the lower lash line without the harshness that black can sometimes have.
- Layering for Depth: Apply a full coat of black mascara first. Once it's almost dry, apply a coat of your chosen coloured mascara over the top. This technique creates a deep, multi-dimensional hue. The black base provides definition and volume, while the coloured layer adds a subtle sheen that is more noticeable in direct light.
Creating a Bold Festival or Evening Look
When you want to make a statement, coloured mascara is the perfect tool. For festivals, parties, or creative photoshoots, don't be afraid to go bold and experiment with brighter, more saturated colours.
- Full Colour Saturation: To make the colour truly stand out, begin with a white lash primer. This creates a blank canvas that will make any subsequent colour appear more vibrant and true to its shade in the tube. Apply two or three generous coats of a bright mascara, like electric blue, hot pink, or vibrant green, from root to tip.
- Colour Combinations: Try using two different colours for an ombre effect. Apply one colour from the inner corner to the middle of your lash line, and a second, complementary colour from the middle to the outer corner. You can also apply one colour to your top lashes and a contrasting one to your bottom lashes.
- Match Your Makeup: For a cohesive and high-impact look, coordinate your coloured mascara with your eyeliner or eyeshadow. A sweep of cobalt blue eyeliner paired with matching blue mascara creates a powerful, monochromatic statement that is sure to turn heads.
Tips for Application and Removal
To get the most out of your coloured mascara, proper application and gentle removal are essential. A clean application prevents clumping and ensures the colour is distributed evenly, while careful removal protects your delicate lashes and the skin around your eyes. Use a lash comb or a clean spoolie brush to separate lashes between coats. When it's time to take your makeup off, use a dual-phase or oil-based eye makeup remover. Soak a cotton pad, hold it against your closed eye for about 20-30 seconds to dissolve the product, and then gently wipe downwards. Avoid harsh rubbing to prevent lash breakage and irritation.
