I love it when a trend is universally flattering. There is nothing worse than being in love with a style and knowing that you'll never be able to pull it off (I'm looking at you harem pants, bustier tops and boyfriend jeans). Fortunately, the hottest Spring trend and Pantone's colour of the year happens to be flattering on every skin tone. 

You may be shying away from such a bold, deep colour, but don't. Embrace it. The key to wearing emerald is all about pairing it with the right blush and lipstick and keeping it subtle. Emerald is a strong colour, but it's also fresh and modern which makes it the perfect way to switch things up for the upcoming season. 

Still reluctant to jump on the emerald bandwagon? We're going to try and convince you by showing you three different ways to wear it.  We'll also give you a few lip and cheek pairing suggestions. 

For our emerald eye looks, we all used pieces from the Sephora Pantone Color of the Year Collection (C$82.00):
 

 
Curious to see what we came up with? 

#1: Ali
 

Ali accented a sheer swipe of shadow and some liner with emerald mascara. While it may be a scary thought, the emerald mascara is actually quite subtle. On blue-green eyes like Ali's, it makes for a beautifully striking look.

#2: Mandy 
 

Mandy opted for a thin, liquid liner in emerald. It isn't over the top, but it's a rich and eye catching alternative to black. We think the emerald looks great with Mandy's olive skin tone. 
 
#3 Alexandra 


I went with an emerald smoky eye. Less intense colour made it more day appropriate. Use a more intense shade and stronger liner and this could be a great night look too. 

Blush Options: For an emerald eye, cheeks should be kept in the coral, pink or dusty rose family. Avoid too much red so you don't impersonate a Christmas tree. Keep it to a pretty flush too, nothing too intense so you don't enter clownville. 
 

1. Tarte Amazonian Clay 12 Hr Blush in Achiote (C$31.00)

2. Revlon Matte Powder Blush in Blushing Berry (C$11.99)

3. Kevyn Aucoin The Creamy Moist Glow in Tansoleil (C$26.50)
 
4. Paul & Joe Limited Edition Face Color in Nymph 001 (C$26.50)

5. Physicians Formula Happy Booster Glow & Mood Boosting Blush (C$15.99)
 
6. Sephora Color Theory Sculpting Blush (C$29.00)

Lip Colour Options: Choose a similar shade as your own lip colour and stick to the same colour family as your blush. Try for a 'your lip but better' approach. I think a bit of gloss (but avoid overly sparkly, foiled or metallics) looks pretty and more natural than a chalky matte lipstick with emerald eyes. 


1. Bare Minerals Pretty Amazing Lip Color (C$20.00)

2. Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain in Lovesick (C$9.99)

3. Bobbi Brown Creamy Matte Lip Color in True Pink (C$28.00) 

4. Stila Color Balm Lipstick in Isla (C$29.00)

What do you think of the emerald look? Will you try it out?