Looking to elevate your eye-makeup routine? Universally flattering eyeliner shades are an effortless way to add dimension and versatility. “In painting colour theory, you’re taught that the darkest darks (blacks) and lightest lights (whites) exist to accentuate the middle tones: think greys, browns and a range of colours, enhancing dimension and creating contrast,” editorial makeup artist El DeBratto explains. “Makeup follows the same principles. When you choose eyeliner shades that fall into softer, less high-contrast middle tones, they tend to be more most flattering and wearable across a wide range of faces.”
Ahead, pro makeup artists reveal the exact six shades that complement just about everyone. From classic blacks and ivory brighteners for everyday to a deep burgundy that yields a festive pop, these are the hues that will flatter any gaze.
Deep Black
Blue eyes, green eyes, hazel eyes and more because who doesn’t have a black eyeliner in their makeup bag? Much like the little black dress, the classic black eyeliner is a true beauty mainstay, working beautifully across all eye colours and skin tones (though some might prefer a more subtle shade). “A deep black is universally flattering because it’s neutral and the end goal is to create definition and contrast,” say pro makeup artist Kasey Spickard. “When you’re working with a shade that deep, you’re naturally going to get the contrast you want.”
The catch, of course, is that black eyeliner leaves little room for error: smudging or transferring can ruin any makeup look and it’s far more noticeable with such an inky hue. That’s why the Lancôme’s pencil delivers similar staying power with a hybrid liquid-to-gel texture that sets quickly and stays firmly in place. Anastasia Beverly Hills’s Liquid Liner is a very similar option when it comes to long-lasting stay and colour payoff.
Anastasia Beverly Hills Liquid Eye Liner
Lancôme Crayon Kohl Eye Pencil
Chocolate Brown
For Spickard, chocolate brown ranks just behind black as one of the most universally flattering eyeliner shades. Álvarez echoes the sentiment, noting that brown eyeliner often appear fresher on mature skin and naturally skews more soft glam than dramatic. Still, choosing the right chocolate-hued liner comes down to one key factor: your skin’s undertone. Spickard recommends pairing warm skin tones with warm browns and applying the same logic to cooler undertones.
“If I have a client with a warm or warm-neutral undertone, I’ll often reach for an eyeliner like MAC Cosmetics’s Kohl Eyeliner Pencil in Costa Riche, which is a very warm-toned brown,” he says. “Meanwhile, the brand’s cool-toned shade, Coffee, reads ’90s sultry.” For a more budget-friendly option, he turns to Maybelline’s Tattoo Studio pencils. “It’s an affordable price point and easy to find in any drugstore. The formula offers creamy blendability before setting, then delivers an ultra-long-lasting finish that fully locks down and stays put, even in the waterline,” he adds.
MAC Cosmetics Kohl Eyeliner Pencil – Costa Riche
Maybelline New York Tattoo Studio Smokey Eye Kohl Gel Pencil Eyeliner – Smokey Brown
Charcoal
Seeking something more subtle, that still makes eyes pop? Don’t discount grey as only suitable for a smoky eye. In fact, it’s a more natural-looking alternative to jet black. “Charcoals are going to be flattering on everyone. For instance, a black liner could read as too intense on someone with mature skin or very fair features. Whereas, if you were to opt for a charcoal grey, it’s still going to add definition and dimension to the eye space without overwhelming it,” says DeBratto.
