Venus Williams is in love (no, not that kind). In her first joint print interview with husband Andrea Preti, the newlyweds open up about their multiple weddings, the moments that mattered most and what greatness means in marriage.
Updated Apr 28, 202626 Gorgeous Ideas for Wedding Makeup for Brown Eyes
Make your eye color really pop with these looks.
There's a lot to consider when it comes to planning your bridal makeup. Your glam should mesh well with your dress and the vibe of your wedding, but you also want it to work with your features, like your eye color. If you're looking for wedding makeup for brown eyes, there are certain colors you might want to focus on more than others. The right shades of eye makeup complement the color and make your eyes really pop, and it's good information to keep in mind for your wedding and beyond. We spoke to expert makeup artists to get their tips on the best makeup for brown eyes and put together a list of inspo for your own wedding glam. Don't forget to save this inspiration to Your Favorites section of your The Knot account by clicking the small heart icon on any images of makeup looks you like. Once you have them saved you can easily reference back to your inspiration when collaborating with a makeup pro. Keep scrolling, and if you're still on the hunt for a makeup artist, be sure to use The Knot Vendor Marketplace to search for artists and vendors near you.
In this article:
- What are the Best Makeup Colors for Brown Eyes?
- Inspiring Bridal Makeup for Brown Eyes
- How to Choose Wedding Makeup for Brown Eyes
- The Best Makeup Products for Brown Eyes
What are the Best Makeup Colors for Brown Eyes?
Brown eyes are versatile, and while any color works with them, certain hues make them look even prettier. When it comes to wedding makeup looks, you really want to opt for colors that make you look and feel your best, so picking based on your eye shade is a good idea.
Two versatile shades you really can't go wrong with are bronze and copper, says Shervonne Kitto, bridal makeup artist at Makeup by Sherviii in NYC. "These warm metallics bring out all the golden goodness in brown eyes, especially in sunset lighting," she says. "Think glowy goddess vibes." Kitto also loves champagne and neutral shades, saying that a soft sparkle on the lids can lift the eye area and give a "lit-from-within glow" that is lovely on a bride or a wedding guest. She recommends soft browns, taupes and warm caramels, all of which are subtle and layer nicely with bolder shades as well.
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For a pop of color, Kitto loves plum and burgundy shades for brown eyes. "These tones have just enough red to make brown eyes look deeper, sexier and more sultry, especially in soft glam looks," she says.
For Brown Eyes and Blonde Hair
For makeup for blondes with brown eyes, you want to play up the golden tones that complement the natural hues in both your eyes and hair. Kitto recommends warm peachy tones, soft golds and bronze. "They bring warmth to the face and keep everything looking soft but still sultry," she explains.
For Brown Eyes and Brown Hair
Don't avoid brown or bronze tones just because both your hair and eyes are similar shades of brown. For brown hair and eyes, Kitto likes rich coppers, rusts, and warm browns, as she says they add depth without feeling heavy and can easily give a soft glam look. If you want to be a little more adventurous, opt for some color. "Burgundy shades have the perfect amount of red in them to add contrast, creating a warm and sultry look," says Anari Laboard, lead trainer at Blushington.
For Brown Eyes and Dark/Black Hair
For a more subtle look, opt for deeper brown tones, like an espresso brown, for a dark eye and hair combo. If you're not afraid to play around with color, both Kitto and Laboard recommend doing so. Kitto loves deep plums or even a tiny bit of emerald for dark eyes and hair, since they help make eyes pop and really stand out. And Laboard also recommends purple tones, which she says add dimension to the eyes.
For Brown Eyes and Red Hair
Whether your hair is a deep red or strawberry blonde, you can play into the color by adding similar shades to your eyes. Kitto likes rose gold, mauve and terracotta tones. "They highlight the warmth in both your hair and your eyes without fighting for attention," she notes.
Inspiring Bridal Makeup for Brown Eyes
Before picking a beauty look you want to use as inspo with your makeup artist, decide whether you want a more natural and subtle look or something more glam and dramatic. For a subtle look, stick with soft browns, warm metallics and incorporate some gold or copper tones. For a more colorful or dramatic look, opt for dark brown, purples and emeralds. The looks below are a great place to start for bridal makeup for brown eyes.
1. Soft Glam Makeup for Brown Eyes and Dark Hair
This shimmery pink/copper eye shadow becomes a more glam look with the addition of some fairly heavy liquid eyeliner and dramatic bridal lashes. You can keep the look softer by opting for a neutral lip shade and matte foundation with a hint of blush.
2. Jewel-Toned Makeup for Brown Eyes and Dark Hair
It can be really fun and unexpected to play with pops of color on your wedding day. Pinks and purples are beautiful shades that really make brown eyes stand out. These bolder colors also look great against a darker skin tone. Use deep purple and some shimmery light purple or pink on your eyelids for a look that is colorful but not over the top.
3. Colorful Makeup for Brown Eyes and Bright Hair
Brides who are rocking a bright and unique hair color may want to play into that by matching their eye makeup to their hair. This colorful look might be unexpected for a wedding, but it's still beautiful. Green eye shadow looks beautiful with brown eyes, especially light brown eyes, and adding in some blue really makes the look. Keep the rest of your makeup more neutral and simple to make this look a bit more formal.
4. Neutral Wedding Makeup for Brown Hair and Brown Eyes
To create a simple but gorgeous makeup look for your wedding day, use very soft taupe colors and just a touch of shimmer. Soft brown shadow in the outer corners adds dimension, and long lashes and eyeliner complete the look. To keep it from being too simple, add a deep mauve lipstick like this bride did.
5. Classic Glam Makeup for Brown Eyes
It's hard to go wrong with a classic, soft glam look on your wedding day. This bride nails it with a very subtle smokey eye using soft taupe and brown eye shadow shades and fluffy, long eyelashes. A light coral/pink lipstick and matching blush on the cheeks keep the look from being too dark or dramatic.
6. Smokey Eye for Brown Eyes
If you're going to opt for a smokey eye, don't hold back—go for all the drama with deep brown and black shades around your eyes. This bride uses shimmery deep pink and copper tones for definition and a touch of white in the inner corners of the eyes to brighten things up.
7. Vintage-Inspired Makeup for Brown Eyes and Red Hair
The combination of a sleek cat eye and bright red matte lipstick always makes for a more vintage-inspired look. This is gorgeous with soft waves for a Hollywood glam type of look, and you can keep your skin looking flawless and smooth with the right foundation and blush. Some soft pink eye shadow on your lids complements deep red tones in your hair as well.
8. Romantic Wedding Makeup for Brown Eyes
For a look that is bright, beautiful, and feels a little more modern and trendy, opt for light eye shadow and a flawless complexion. Neutral eye shadow, like very soft light brown or taupe shades, works well here, and using brown eye shadow as your liner keeps the look soft rather than too sharp. Add some long lashes, neutral lipstick and dewy foundation for your skin.
9. Shimmery Metallic Makeup for Brown Eyes
A shimmering metallic eye shadow is a beautiful way to really make your eyes stand out. This bride uses bright silver shades to highlight her eyes, making them appear larger and wider, with a soft brown shadow for added definition and depth. Long lashes are a must, and some eyeliner makes the look more intentional. Add a shimmery lip gloss to really make the look sparkle.
10. Dramatic Makeup for Brown Eyes and Olive Skin
If you love really playing up your brown eyes and want to do something a little over the top, your wedding night is the perfect night to do so. This bride shows how a dramatic smokey eye can look very glamorous. Shimmery copper eye shadow brightens the look a bit and complements your eyes, bringing out any hidden golden flecks in the best way.
11. Bright Neutral Makeup for Brown Eyes and Dark Skin
A neutral wedding makeup for dark skin look doesn't have to be boring, and this bride's glam is proof of that. You can use some shimmery white tones layered with super soft browns or taupes on your eyes to keep them looking bright and wide awake. Avoid heavy eyeliner for this look and focus on dewy foundation, plenty of blush and neutral lip color with some gloss instead.
12. Classic Makeup for Brown Eyes and Light Skin
This inspo photo shows a great example of a classic bridal makeup look. Soft brown or taupe shades on the eyes create a look that is subtle yet beautiful, while plenty of blush keeps your face looking fresh and clean. Add a pretty bright pink or red lipstick for a pop of color—especially if it ties into your bouquet.
13. Simple Glam Makeup for Brown Eyes
For subtle makeup that is a bit more elevated than something very natural, opt for a look like this. Soft brown eye shadow creates a simple and subtle look that is almost like a pared-down smokey eye. Go for clean lines with carefully trimmed eyebrows, matte foundation and a lipstick that offers some color.
14. Brown Smokey Eye for Brown Eyes
Using a mix of soft brown, taupe, metallic and dark brown eye shadows creates a beautiful smokey eye that complements your eye color and doesn't look quite as harsh as black. Balance the more dramatic look with a neutral pink lip color and light blush.
15. Glowy Makeup for Dark Hair and Eyes
You can balance out a little more of a dramatic eye makeup look by keeping your skin dewy, glowy and fresh. Use a glowing foundation rather than a matte one, and add highlighter and blush for dimension. Shimmery metallic eye shadows work great here as well.
16. Natural Makeup for Brown Eyes
If you're going for the no-makeup makeup look, you want to keep things as natural as possible. That means opting for soft taupe and very light brown shades, keeping things neutral and simple. A brown eyeliner is going to be softer and more natural-looking than black, and a light coral lip color with a matte finish is great for the lips.
17. Simple Shimmery Makeup for Brown Eyes
Photo: Max McQueen Photo
,Makeup: Done Up Beauty Salon
For a simple makeup look that is still fun, choose a shimmery eye shadow. A metallic light pink or rose gold is perfect with brown eyes and a lighter skin tone and you don't need to add dark or smokey shades if you want to keep things on the lighter side. A glossy pink lip color is the perfect easy addition.
18. Purple Eye Makeup for Brown Eyes
Purple is an unexpectedly great color for brown eyes—it really makes them pop and helps pull out any golden tones. Go for a bolder look by using sparkly purple on your lids and a deeper purple hue in the crease, with full lashes and glam eyeliner.
19. Neutral Makeup for Brown Eyes
Another way to achieve natural wedding makeup is to opt for very neutral tones on your eyes and lips. Think soft brown shades just a little bit darker than your skin tone, with a little eyeliner and false lashes to make your eyes pop in a subtle way. Add creamy blush and a neutral lip color as well.
20. Gold Smokey Eye Makeup for Brown Eyes and Dark Skin
Photo: Griot Photo
,Makeup: Taylor Simpson Artistry
Gold tones are some of the best eye makeup colors for brown eyes, and if your skin tone is darker, then opt for darker gold. A touch of shimmer gives the look definition, and you can use a deeper brown or taupe in the crease of your eye to create a smokier look. Continue the golden glow vibes with a pretty highlighter.
21. Bright Golden Tones for Brown Eyes
While deeper golden and brown eye shadows can create a really pretty smokey eye, a lighter gold shade feels brighter and more appropriate for a daytime or summer wedding. Create a really pretty and unexpected look by using soft brown underneath the eye as well.
22. Soft Smokey Makeup for Brunettes With Brown Eyes
Use a mix of different warm brown shades to create a really pretty take on a classic smokey eye. Not only do the brown eye shadow colors complement your eye color, but they also create a softer and less dramatic look.
23. Frosty White Makeup for Brown Eyes
For a bright, light makeup look, skip the deep brown and purple tones and instead opt for a frostier look. Shimmering white or very light blue eye shadow makes your eyes pop and keeps you looking wide awake, and this is actually a great look to choose if you're getting married in the winter.
24. Romantic Smokey Eye for Hooded Eyes
For darker hooded eyes, create some pretty definition with a subtle and romantic smokey eye. Instead of going too deep or too bold, use warm brown shades to create a soft wing and eyeliner in the waterline for a more defined vibe. Keep your skin glowy and your lips neutral to keep things simple.
25. Bold Colorful Eye Shadow for Dark Eyes
Colorful eye shadow can be really beautiful with dark eyes and a darker skin tone, and purple isn't your only option. Really, any jewel tone will look great with brown eyes, so pick your favorite that works with your dress. In this case, an emerald green or blue shimmery shade is so pretty and fun.
26. Subtle Pink Eye Shadow for Brown Eyes
Soft, very light pink makeup looks great with dark brown eyes and a lighter skin tone. Keep the shadow soft and subtle by skipping shimmer. You can define your eyes more with full lashes and eyeliner; then, be sure to wear a warm pink blush and a matching lip color.
How to Choose Wedding Makeup for Brown Eyes
When searching for makeup inspiration photos, you should have a good idea of what you want, whether it's for bridal makeup, wedding guest makeup or bridesmaid makeup. Keep the below tips in mind and don't be afraid to ask your makeup artist for their advice and opinions as well.
Don't go too far out of your comfort zone.
While you want your wedding day glam to be stunning, it's also not really the best day to try something you would never otherwise wear. Opting for something different can be fun, but going too far out of your comfort zone may end up leaving you feeling less confident. "Your wedding makeup should look like you, just a little more elevated, polished and glowy," Kitto says. "It's not about transforming into someone else, it's about enhancing what already makes you beautiful."
Pick a look that works with the overall wedding vibe.
The wedding location, time of year and theme are all details to consider when looking for a makeup look. For example, if you're getting married on the beach or in the middle of the summer, Kitto likes looks that are bronzy, dewy and fresh. If you're getting married in the winter or having a black-tie dress code, she recommends going a little extra glam with deeper tones and fuller lashes.
Consider your gown and accessories.
According to Laboard, your wedding dress and the color of your jewelry can both influence which makeup tones will harmonize the best. Think about things like the color of your gown (is it bright white or more ivory?) and the gemstones you'll wear when selecting colors.
Do not skip the makeup trial.
Both Kitto and Laboard stress the importance of a makeup trial and of collaborating with your makeup artist. Be sure to book a trial a few weeks or months before the wedding so you have time to tweak things if necessary. Kitto also recommends putting on your dress, accessories and even doing your hair after the trial so you can see if you really love the overall look.
Keep your skin tone in mind.
Your skin tone also matters when finding the right makeup colors. "Your skin's undertone should guide the shades you want," she says. "Warm tones for that golden glow, cool tones for a more icy-soft finish."
The Best Makeup Products for Brown Eyes
When it comes to finding makeup styles for brown eyes, focus on looks that include shades like bronze, copper, warm browns, soft golds, plum and burgundy. All of these will complement your eye color and really make this feature pop. Below are some of the best wedding makeup products for brown eyes you can buy now.
Danessa Myricks Groundwork Blooming Romance Palette
Photo: Sephora
If you're thinking of playing around with color, this eye shadow palette is a great tool to have. Laboard recommends it because it features red and burgundy tones, and adds, "the pigment also has amazing staying power, making it perfect for those long wedding days."
Charlotte Tilbury Eyes to Mesmerize
Photo: Charlotte Tilbury
For those who don't want to spring for a whole palette and would prefer just one color, try this Charlotte Tilbury cream eye shadow, which offers a smooth, creamy finish that feels great. Kitto likes the shades amber gold and chocolate bronze, and she loves the formula and shimmery effect. "It melts into the lid and gives brown eyes that glowy, dreamy finish," she says.
Armani Beauty Eye Tint Liquid Eye Shadow in Beige
Photo: Sephora
This liquid eye color is made to have serious staying power and should last, crease-free, for up to 16 hours. This makes it perfect for a bride, and the beige color is especially great for a more subtle look or the foundation of a smokey eye. Kitto calls it her "go-to for a sophisticated, soft glam eye." She likes that it's brightening and adds soft color that enhances brown eyes rather than competes with them. "Think minimal effort, maximum glow," she says.
Stila Stay All Day Eyeliner
Photo: Ulta
It's hard to get better than this bestselling eyeliner, which has a fine tip for easy application and a satin finish that should last for hours without budging. "I love to use this to draw attention to a bride's eyes without it being too contrasting to their complexion," Laboard says. "This liner also has gold tones in it, another nice addition for a wedding day makeup look."
Makeup by Mario Master Mattes Eye Shadow Palette
Photo: Sephora
If you're going to buy just one eye shadow palette for your wedding festivities, make it this one, which is packed with versatile neutrals you can use to create any look. "This is that girl for everyday glam," Kitto says. "The warm neutrals, rich browns and velvety blacks are perfect for creating depth and definition in brown eyes."
Danessa Myricks ColorFix in Carrot Cake
Photo: Sephora
If you want to play around with color, Kitto loves this liquid eye pigment, which delivers a matte finish that can be used on the eyes, cheeks or lips. It's waterproof and long-lasting, and this orange color is so fun and bold. "If you're looking to make your brown eyes pop with something editorial or playful, this vibrant orange brings out every golden undertone in your eyes," she says.
Bodyography Glitter Pigment in Off The Hook
Photo: Amazon
A little sparkle is an easy way to make your eye makeup feel more special and elevated, whether you're doing a smokey eye or keeping things more simple. Laboard calls this glittery eye shadow in a taupe color one of her favorite bridal products. "It can be applied dry for the most subtle shimmer or wet for a nice bronzed look," she says.
Danessa Myricks ColorFix in Exposed
Photo: Sephora
Another neutral favorite of Kitto's is this same matte pigment in a much more neutral shade. Exposed is a pink/beige shade that is perfect for soft, romantic looks. "It's amazing for bridal glam, and because it's so lightweight and buildable, it layers beautifully with shimmer or deeper tones," she explains.
