Mascara might be a small step in your beauty routine, but the colour you choose can have a surprisingly big impact on your overall look. While black has been the classic choice for decades, softer shades like brown – and even more unusual tones – are becoming increasingly popular for their ability to flatter certain eye colours and create different finishes.
If you’ve ever wondered whether to swap your go-to black for something warmer, here’s how to choose the perfect mascara shade for your eye colour, your style, and the look you want to achieve.
Work with your natural lash colour
As a general rule, mascara should be darker than your natural lashes to create definition. If your lashes are fair, brown can give a soft, flattering finish without looking stark. Medium to dark lashes usually carry black well, giving a striking frame to the eyes.
Match your mascara to the mood
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For drama – Black mascara delivers impact, volume, and intensity, making it perfect for a bold evening look or a smoky eye.
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For softness – Brown mascara offers a gentler, more natural effect, ideal for daytime wear or paired with brighter lip colours where you want the focus elsewhere.
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For balance – Try black mascara on the top lashes and brown on the bottom. This combination gives definition without making the lower lash line look heavy.
Choose shades that enhance your eye colour
Your eye colour can help guide you towards the most flattering choice:
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Blue, grey, or cool green eyes – Warm brown tones create contrast, making these shades appear brighter.
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Hazel eyes – Brown mascara can draw out golden flecks, while black offers a clean, defined frame.
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Brown eyes – Black adds depth and drama, while dark brown provides a softer alternative.
Is black too harsh?
Black mascara can sometimes feel overpowering, especially if you prefer a minimal look. If so, the effect can be softened by choosing a lighter texture and using a brush that separates rather than clumps. This way, you’ll still enjoy the definition without the heaviness.
Does brown work on dark lashes?
While brown mascara won’t create the same contrast on dark lashes as it does on fair ones, it can still add lift and subtle definition. This makes it a great choice for a more understated, everyday look.
No hard and fast rules
Ultimately, the best mascara shade is the one that makes you feel confident. You might keep black for evening and special occasions, and turn to brown for softer daytime wear – or you might stick with one shade year-round. The beauty of mascara is that it’s easy to experiment, so you can swap and switch until you find your perfect match.
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