A comprehensive guide to smokey eye makeup

A comprehensive guide to smokey eye makeup

Smokey eye makeup is a classic look that can be seen on runways and red carpets alike. It's a timeless, beautiful look that has been around since the 1920s and shows no signs of going away anytime soon. 

If you're new to smokey eyes or want to brush up on your skills, this ultimate guide is here to help! From tips and tricks for beginners to create different looks with different eye colors, this guide has everything you need to create the best smokey eye makeup.

What is smokey eye makeup?

Smokey eye makeup is a sultry and dramatic look that uses darker shades of eyeshadow to create a smoldering effect. It is a popular choice for evening makeup as it can make the eyes look more seductive and mysterious.

Now let's get to how to do smokey eyes easily!

Black smokey eye makeup step-by-step

Step 1

Apply a light eyeshadow all over your lid. This will act as a base for the rest of the shadows and help them blend more easily. 

Step 2

Take a dark shadow and apply it to the crease of your eye. Use a windshield wiper motion to blend out any harsh lines.

Step 3

Add some shimmer! Take a lighter shadow and apply it to the inner corner of your eye and along your brow bone. This will really make your eyes pop. 

Step 4

Line your lower lash line with a dark pencil or gel liner. 

Step 5

Finish off your eyes look with plenty of mascara!

Step 6

Don't forget your brows or lips. Fill in your brows with a brow pencil to frame your eyes beautifully. Your eyes will be your main focal point, so opt for lighter lipstick. 

Different types of the best smokey eye makeup

When it comes to smokey eye makeup, there are many different looks that you can achieve. The most important thing is to find a look that suits your personal style and preferences.

The natural look

Start by applying a light eyeshadow all over the lid. Then, use a dark eyeshadow to create a V-shape in the outer corner of the eye. Blend the shadow outward and up into the crease. Finally, add a touch of highlight to the inner corner of the eye and under the brow bone.

The dramatic look

Start by applying a dark eyeshadow all over the lid. Then, use a lighter eyeshadow to create a V-shape in the inner corner of the eye. Blend the shadow outward and up into the crease. Finally, add a touch of highlight to the center of the lid and under the brow bone.

The black and white

Use a black eyeliner pencil to create a thick line along your upper lash line. Then, use a white eyeshadow to highlight the inner corners of your eyes. 

Colorful smoke

Start by creating a winged eyeliner look using a black pencil liner. Then, choose any eyeshadow color and apply it across your entire lid. Use a lighter shade in the crease of your eye for added dimension. 

The smoldering smokey eye 

Start by applying an eyeshadow primer all over your lid to help the colors stay in place. Then, use a charcoal gray or brown eyeliner pencil to create a thick line along your upper lash line. Next, use darker shades of gray or brown eyeshadow on your lid and in the crease of your eye for added depth. 

Always add plenty of mascara to finalize your smokey eye makeup!

Tips, tricks, and techniques for the best smokey eye makeup for different eye colors

Blue eyes

  • Use a light eyeshadow color on the lid and a dark color on the crease. 
  • Use a white or nude eyeliner pencil on the lower lash line to brighten the eye. 

Green eyes

  • Use a medium-dark eyeshadow color on the lid and a darker eyeshadow color on the crease. 
  • Use a black or dark brown eyeliner pencil on the lower lash line to create depth. 

Brown eyes

  • Use a dark eyeshadow color on the lid and a lighter color on the crease. 
  • Use a black or dark brown eyeliner pencil on the lower lash line to create depth. 

How to do smokey eyes easily

The surest way to get those perfect smoldering eyes is to rely on a smokey eye makeup kit. These kits will contain all the products you need for your look and guide you every step of the way. 

Final thought

Always remember, the best smokey eye makeup is all about blending, so take your time to ensure everything is blended nicely before moving on to mascara.

Find the best goodies and smokey eye makeup kit for your makeup drawer here!
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