Brown Is the New Black: How to Wear This Season’s Chicest Eye Makeup Trend

Brown is the new black this season—at least when it comes to the most obsessed over eye makeup trends. Whether it’s a subtle brown mascara, shimmering bronze shadow, or smudged-out espresso liner, it’s one makeup hue that truly looks flattering on everyone. The best part? “Brown is a foolproof shade,” says celebrity makeup artist Sam Fine. “It’s so easy to work with because it’s so flattering, subtle, and blendable that it always looks beautiful.”

It’s the perfect shade range to accentuate natural features without being too bold or overpowering, adds celebrity makeup artist Tobi Henney. “I always use a lot of brown tones because it’s softer and works for day or night,” she says. It’s also incredibly versatile: Brown can become full-on glamorous with some shimmer and extra shading at the crease or stay understated with a matte finish and next-to-nothing swipe of mascara. All things considered, it’s no wonder brown eye makeup is having a moment. Below, pro makeup artists walk us through two gorgeous ways to try it—one with a matte finish for more softly defined features, the second for a metallic, sun-kissed glow.

For a sultrier take on the trend, opt for darker, espresso-like brown hues. The key to a matte, diffused, softly smokey look is layering different shades of brown, explains Henney. “Chocolate hues and lived-in liner helps give eyes that subtly chic depth with a sexy, no-makeup makeup effect,” she says.

1.) To start, line the top and bottom of your eyes with a brown eyeliner and gently buff it out for your desired smokey effect. “Surrounding the eye in brown makes your eye color really pop,” says Fine. Fine likes a smooth gel liner whereas Henney prefers a pencil—choose based on your preference. “The most important part is that you gently work and blend that eyeliner out to smooth out any harsh lines,” says Fine.

2.) Next, Henney likes to layer a cream-colored shadow all over lids with a matte, chocolate shade on top. “Use a flat, dense brush to press on and apply the shadow,” she says. Then, smooth and buff it out with a fluffy brush. “Placement on the lid comes first,” says Fine. “Then blend it out to make it look more lived-in and softer by diffusing those rigid lines.” Shade is important when choosing a matte brown shadow, too. “Look for something with a little contrast that’s not too warm and not too cool,” says Fine.

3.) Swipe on a coat of mascara for definition and lift. Although brown mascara is more popular than ever, for this look, black will better balance out the darker-hued shadow. “Brown mascara leaves your eyes subtly defined and lifted with an invisible, my-lashes-just-look-like-this vibe,” says Fine. “It doesn’t have the contrast or intensity that black has.”

4.) For the rest of your makeup, keep it simple. “I like to add a little luminosity and warmth with a highlighter and powder bronzer,” says Henney. “Finish with a natural, pinky lip.” Source