The Color Wheel Contrast Secret
Green and red are complementary colors on the artist's color wheel. When placed side by side, they amplify each other's visual saturation. Hazel eyes (which contain yellow, gold, and green flecks) light up with golden warmth when surrounded by rich bordeaux pigment.
Black mascara absorbs light, creating a dark outline. Burgundy mascara allows light to filter through the reddish pigment, reflecting warm tones back into your iris and making eyes look larger and brighter.
The 'Ombre Tip' Technique for Beginners
If you are hesitant about full colored lashes, try the ombre tip technique. Apply one coat of your standard black mascara from roots to mid-lengths to establish lashline depth.
Then, take your burgundy mascara and sweep it exclusively onto the tips and outer third of your lashes. Every time you blink, you get a subtle, sophisticated flash of dark cherry without leaving your comfort zone.