Create The Perfect Smoky Eye
Smoky eyes can add a dramatic look using rich shades including dark greys, shimmery silvers and deep blacks. There are a few style tips to keep in mind when wearing a smoky eye. Keep your lips neutral, allowing your eyes to be the focus. Peaches, pinks and nudes all pair beautifully with a smokey eye. Less product looks more flattering. This rule applies to most makeup techniques but specifically to the smoky eye look.
Creating a smoky eye takes practice and patience. The first thing that you are going to want to do is to prep the lid fully. This will allow for color to last all day without smudging or bleeding. The eyelids need to be kept oil-free because otherwise the color will not stay put, making your eyes appear raccoon-like. To get the eyelid prepped you are going to have start with an eyeshadow base which is also known as a primer. Gently sweep the primer across the lid and give it time to fully dry. There are many great eye primers available. Our favorite is MAC’s Paint which retails for $19. It is available at Sephora and MAC stores.
Next you are going to want to apply eyeliner. The most common shade to use is a bold black. Black looks great paired with smokey greys, deep browns and even purples. Revlon Eye Crayon in Blackest Black goes on easily while allowing you to be very precise. You will want to draw the liner above the upper lash line. The line can be thin or thick depending on your personal preference. Start lighter knowing that you can always add more liner if you need to. If you are more of a pro and have had a lot of practice with your liner you can always use a liquid liner. Liquid liner can make your eyes pop even more so we suggest it for an evening or formal look. Maybelline Eyestudio Master Chic Thin or Thick Glossy Liquid Liner goes on easily with it’s dual tip. Eye liner pencil or crayons are the best for applying color to the bottom lash line because they are the easiest to smudge. You will want to be able to blend and distribute the color so look for a pencil that has a more creamy finish.
After you have completed lining your eyes you can blend it with your finger or a Q-tip. Once you have perfected your liner you will want to apply a light base color. This will help to give the eye definition and contrast. A cream shadow looks great for the base which can be any color that you like although lighter neutrals and shimmery pearls are pro favorites. Under the brow bone you will want to apply a light creamy color that will help to define the eyebrows while pulling the entire eye together. You will also need to apply a darker color to achieve the smokey effect by giving a gradual color change. Using an eyeshadow brush you will blend the color starting at the upper lash line. Make sure not to go above the crease of your eye because this will look too heavy and overpowering. Do not apply too much of the dark color, choosing to blend the existing color instead.
Once you feel that you have completed your blending close each eye and look for symmetry. If you notice any mistakes go over with a Q-tip with a bit of eye makeup remover. The finishing touch is to go over with your favorite plumping volumizing mascara. Look for a deep black that will help your eyes to stand out. Our favorite mascaras include Rimmel Volume Accelerator and CoverGirl LashBlast Volume Mascara. They retail for under $12 at most beauty retailers. Once you have perfected the smoky eye look it will become your go-to signature look for formal and fun nights out.