Best Burgundy Eyeliners to Brighten Brown Eyes

Emma Caldwell
October 9, 2026

To be honest, I have always been one of those girls who is very proud to have brown eyes. They are the most versatile when it comes to choosing discreet makeup that looks elegant and very professional. However, a couple of weeks ago I learned a trick from a makeup artist friend to optically make your iris appear lighter: the burgundy eyeliners.

According to him, black eyeliners harden facial features, and the key to making your gaze look more open, bright, and nuanced is this color on the waterline. «Think that the tones that work best are those that dialogue with it from the chromatic opposition». Moreover, when you try it, you notice something hypnotic. It looks very sophisticated and makes your eyes appear deeper.

The versatility is the best part. You can pair them with brown, green or copper shadows to enhance the effect, or wear it solo alongside a mascara of the same color. It yields a less dramatic result and you can wear it both in your day-to-day routine and on more special occasions.

The Best Burgundy Eyeliners


Le Stylo Waterproof by Lancôme.

Le Stylo Waterproof by Lancôme. We like it because it combines intense pigmentation with a creamy texture that allows you to draw a precise line as well as smudge it to achieve a smoky effect. It is waterproof and lasts for many hours.


Haute Colour Kohl Pencil by L’Oréal Paris.

Haute Colour Kohl Pencil by L’Oréal Paris. Its creamy and powdery texture is enriched with shea butter, designed to glide on easily and feel comfortable throughout the day. In addition, it blends very well, so it’s a good option if you’re after a smoky result.


12H Contour Pencil by Sephora Collection.

12H Contour Pencil by Sephora Collection. It is one of the most versatile, as you can use it as an eyeliner, in the waterline or even blended as shadow thanks to its ultra-creamy texture. It is waterproof, heat- and humidity-resistant and does not transfer. Little more could be asked.


Make Up For Ever Aqua Resist Color Pencil.

Make Up For Ever Aqua Resist Color Pencil. It has a wear of up to 24 hours, in addition to being waterproof, transfer-resistant and smudge-proof. I like it because it is one of the most pigmented and it offers several finishes: matte, iridescent, metallic and with glitter.


ColorStay Multi-Liner by Revlon.

ColorStay Multi-Liner by Revlon. It is one of the best-value options. It is versatile and transfer-resistant. Plus, it features an integrated brush for blending if you’re aiming for a softer finish.


Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Eyeliner.

Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Eyeliner. Finally, this classic contains beeswax to achieve a velvety texture and an emollient oil that facilitates smooth gliding and allows you to modulate the color. You’ll love it if you’re after a warm gaze.

Emma Caldwell
Emma Caldwell
I’m Clara Desrosiers, a writer and fashion editor based in Toronto. I founded Backdoor Toronto to explore the intersection of fashion, identity, and culture through honest storytelling. My work is driven by curiosity, community, and a love for the creative pulse that defines this city.