Eyes are the windows to a doll’s temperament, and choosing color and expression is a balance of psychology, geometry, and harmony with other features. Start by considering the skin tone, hair color, and clothing you expect to pair with the doll. Lighter skin with cool undertones often reads well with pale blues and greens, while warmer complexions can carry amber, hazel, or deep brown with equal ease. Eye color should feel coherent with the overall mood you want the figure to convey: serene, fiery, introspective, or playful.
Expression is shaped by more than iris color. The shape and tilt of the eyelids, the size of the pupils, and the positioning of the corners of the mouth around the eyes create perceived mood. Rounder irises with slightly larger pupils can suggest openness; elongated, almond-shaped eyes with a narrow pupil can read as intensity. Consider symmetry versus asymmetry: a touch of asymmetry in eyelid shaping can make a face feel more lifelike.
Practical steps include testing with removable eye components when possible. Compare options under different lighting—natural daylight, soft indoor light, and cool LED—to see how color shifts. Keep a small mood board to align eye color with intended character. Finally, ensure compatibility with the doll’s skin finish and with any protective coatings used around the eyes to prevent wear or staining.