Abstract: A color modifying contact lens having an iris pattern having color elements that surround a non-opaque pupil section, wherein the pattern comprises three annular regions: an inner region, an intermediate region, and an outer region. The inner and outer regions each comprise a population of color elements effective to enhance or modify the wearer's eye color as observed by the ordinary viewer. The intermediate region has an area of between about 25-72%, and comprises a population of color elements that covers between about 5-30% of the area within the intermediate region. The color elements in the intermediate region form an array of substantially radial macro-striations that alternate between those having color elements and those without color elements.