Tips and Ideas for a Smokey Eye Makeup Look

Alluring and sensual smokey eye makeup looks are all the rage on the runways nowadays. Since the trend toward wearing smokey eye makeup has become very popular, many women are adding smokey eye makeup techniques to their beauty repertoire. Though it might seem tricky, applying eye makeup to get the right effect for this look is actually pretty simple.

The shades of eye makeup, however, do make a big difference to complexions of different hues. The shades most often used for the smokey eye appeal are greys, charcoals, muted indigos and aubergines. Some women use chocolate brown shades. Keep in mind that it’s important to choose shades that best enhance skin color. So, if you have a warmer complexion, deep browns and blacks may work better than greys and purples.

Smokey eye makeup can be worn for day or evening. The rule of thumb when it comes to makeup tips is to play down the drama for daytime and add more glitz and glamour for evening.

What You’ll Need:

To get the right smokey look, for lighter complexions choose varying shades of grey for shadow for over the eyelid and a darker shade above the eyelids so that the hues range from moderate on the eyelid to darker and then slightly lighter beneath eyebrows. Don’t be afraid to use a mix of smokey shadows like pale grey for the eyelids, muted aubergine for the area above the eyelid and a pale grey under the eyebrows. Or, use three shades of grey to create the smokey effect.

Once you finish the shadow, you will next apply a dark eyeliner. Use charcoal or a dark grey shade of eyeliner to outline the area closest to your lash line. Use a sponge or stiff makeup brush to smudge the liner and blend it into the eyeshadow.

Finally, for a great finish, curl your lashes and apply deep black volumizing mascara. You may want to try Diorshow mascara, or MAC Cosmetics’ new Opulash mascara. Both formulas provide exceptional volume and drama – perfect for a smokey eye makeup look. You could also apply false eyelashes for that extra volume and really seductive look.