Black eyeliner is great. But it isn't the only option.
For years, black eyeliner has been the default choice.
But 2026 is giving makeup lovers plenty of reasons to experiment with color.
From cobalt blue and emerald to burgundy, bronze and copper, colorful eyeliner is becoming one of the easiest ways to change an eye makeup look without completely starting over.
And there's a simple reason some colors seem to make your eyes stand out more:
contrast.
👁️ If you have blue eyes
Try:
Copper • Bronze • Peach • Terracotta • Warm Brown
Warm shades can create a strong contrast against blue irises.
You don't have to go bright orange, either. A muted copper or warm brown can give you the same idea in a much more wearable way.
Easy look
Try a thin copper line along the upper lash line and add a little bronze shimmer to the center of the eyelid.
👁️ If you have green eyes
Try:
Burgundy • Plum • Mauve • Berry • Deep Purple
Green and red-violet tones sit opposite each other in traditional color theory, which is why plum and burgundy are often recommended for bringing out green eyes.
For everyday makeup, adeep burgundy linercan be much easier to wear than a bright red.
👁️ If you have brown eyes
This is where things get interesting.
Brown eyes can work with a surprisingly wide range of colors.
Try:
Emerald • Plum • Gold • Bronze • Violet
Gold and bronze can emphasize the warmth in brown eyes, while cooler plum or emerald shades can create more contrast.
One easy upgrade:
Replace your usual black liner with a deep emerald or plum pencil.
Same technique.
Completely different result.
👁️ If you have hazel eyes
Hazel eyes are particularly fun because they can contain combinations of green, brown and gold.
Try:
Burgundy • Berry • Bronze • Gold • Plum
Instead of trying to find one “perfect” color, you can choose which part of your eye you want to emphasize.
Want more gold?
Want to bring out green tones?
✨ The easiest way to try the trend
You don't need an expensive collection of makeup.
Start withone colorful eyeliner.
Apply it exactly as you normally would apply black eyeliner.
That's it.
Once you're comfortable with the color, experiment with a matching or contrasting eyeshadow.
If you want to make your eye look more dramatic, try layering a shimmer shade over the center of the lid.
Looking for another colorful option to experiment with?
Check out this eye-makeup pick on Amazon
As an Amazon Associate, Bproo earns from qualifying purchases.
The best part about eyemaxxing?
There isn't really a single “correct” look.
Color theory gives you a starting point, but makeup is ultimately about experimenting with what you like.
Try copper.
Try purple.
Try emerald.
Try something completely unexpected.
Sometimes the shade you didn't think would work becomes the one you wear every week.
