7 Unexpected Makeup Shades that Are Actually Flattering

By Erin Lukas
Mar 02, 2016 @ 6:00 pm
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Have you ever been shopping for new makeup shades and came across a color that's stopped you dead in the middle of the beauty aisle with this thought: "Who the heck would wear that?" We're right there with you scratching our heads.

But despite initially writing off these products off as best suited for clowns, many of these intimidating hues actually go on a little more tame and all-around flattering than on first impression.  A vivid turquoise eyeliner will brighten and accentuate your eyes, and a blush that matches the shade of your favorite red lipstick actually leaves a natural, healthy flush on the apples of your cheeks. Here, seven seemingly wacky-colored products that can easily be incorporated into your makeup routine for a welcome splash of color.

RELATED: Shop the Prettiest Lip Colors Straight from the 2016 Oscars

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Each product we feature has been independently selected and reviewed by our editorial team. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.

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NARS Cosmetics Blush in Exhibit A 

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You might think that the bold red hue of this NARS blush is better suited for your lips, but the powder actually produces a healthy, natural-looking flush. Just apply with a light hand to gradually build the shade desired. 

$30; narscosmetics.com

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Lipstick Queen Lipstick in Hello Sailor 

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When we first saw this blue lipstick, images of frost bitten lips instantly came to mind, but this navy bullet unexpectedly goes on super sheer as a flattering deep berry tint that will also make teeth look extra bright.

$25; lipstickqueen.com

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Yves Saint Laurent Mascara Volume Effet Faux Cils in Hippie Green 

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This green hue may seem better suited for a Wizard of Oz costume, but hear us out: Emerald green lashes will compliment warm brown eyes and enhance the golden flecks in blue and green eyes. 

$32; yslbeautyus.com

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RMS Lip2cheek in Curious 

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Yes it’s bright and orange, but this cheek balm is totally wearable and leaves behind a sheer, buildable glow that works on a number of skin tones. 

$36; rmsbeauty.com

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Essence Long-Lasting Eye Pencil in Tu-Tu Turquoise 17 

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Surprisingly, a turquoise liner is a flattering shade for every skin tone and eye color. Glide this pencil on close to your waterline for a subtle boost of color, or be extra playful and use it to create a cat eye. 

$3; ulta.com

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NYX Cosmetics Full Throttle Shadow Stick in Femme Fatale 

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It’s easy to be intimidated by a rich purple shadow, but if you give the shade a chance, you’ll find the vivid color is universally complimentary and can be worn day or night.

$7; nyxcosmetics.com

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Too Cool For School Dinoplatz Lost Identity Lip Color 

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Mint green isn’t known for being a go-to lip shade, but this mood ring-like crayon is about to change that. Once you swipe it on, the color adjusts based on your body chemistry. Bonus: it keeps lips soft and smooth all day long. 

$18; sephora.com

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