HOW TO: MASTER THEPERFECT SMOKEY EYE

Are you ready to master a classic smokey eye look that’s effortlessly chic yet easy to achieve? Whether you’re getting ready for a night out, a special event, or just want to elevate your makeup game, creating a smouldering smokey eye is easier than you might think and you only need 5 minutes.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

• Three shades of eyeshadow: a light shade, a medium-toned shade and a dark shade – think greys, browns or for a modern twist, navy and plum
• Eyeliner Pencil in black or brown
• Fluffy Blending Brush for smooth, seamless transitions
• Flat Shader Brush to pack in colour
• Mascara to define your lashes and complete the look

WHAT IS A SMOKEY EYE?

A smokey eye makeup look is a timeless style that uses layers of different eyeshadow shades and textures, often blending mattes and metallics, to create depth and dimension to the eye area. The look features a gradient from light to dark, with the darkest shade concentrated along the lash line.

STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO ACHIEVING A SMOKEY EYE

01. PREP YOUR LIDS

Starting with clean eyelids, gently apply an eyeshadow primer or a light layer of concealer to help your eyeshadow stay in place and prevent any smudging or creasing.

02. APPLY THE BASE SHADE

Choose a light, neutral shade and apply it all over your lid using a flat shader brush. This shade brightens the eye area and creates a smooth base for blending the darker shades.

03. DEFINE THE CREASE

To contour the eye and add dimension, opt for a medium-toned eyeshadow shade (such as a warm brown). Use a fluffy blending brush to apply to the crease of your eyelid, beginning at the outer corner and blending inward using gentle, windshield-wiper motions.

PRO TIP: For hooded eyes, blend the crease shade slightly above your natural crease so that the colour is visible with your eyes open.

04. BUILD DEPTH

Apply your darkest shade to the outer corner of your eyelid in a V-shape, gently blending inward. A smooth transition is crucial for the smokey effect, so the key here is to keep blending to avoid any harsh lines.

PRO TIP: For a more intense look, build up the dark shade gradually until you achieve the depth you are after.

05. APPLY EYELINER (OPTIONAL)

Using your eyeliner pencil, draw a line along your upper lash line. Don’t worry if it is not overly precise here as you’ll be smudging it out. For extra drama, lightly line your lower lash line as well. Use a small smudging brush or a cotton bud to soften and blend the liner, adding to that smokey effect.

06. HIGHLIGHT

To brighten your eyes, apply a small amount of a light shimmer or a highlighter shade to the inner corners of your eye, the centre of your eyelid and the brow bone. This contrast with the darker shades brightens the eyes and makes them appear larger and more awake.

07. FINISH WITH MASCARA

No look is complete without mascara. Apply a generous coat to lengthen and volumise your lashes, helping to frame and define your eyes and complete the smokey look.

EXTRA TIPS FOR THE PERFECT SMOKEY EYE

• Blend, blend, blend. Smokey eyes are all about soft, diffused edges. Take your time to blend each shade seamlessly.
• Use a light hand with dark eyeshadow shades. It’s easier to build up colour gradually than to remove excess.
• Choose shades that complement your eye colour. Warm shades and bronzes make blue eyes pop, while rich plums enhance green and hazel eyes.
• Balance your overall makeup. If your eyes are bold, keep lips and cheeks softer for a more balanced, harmonious look.