A smokey eye sounds perfect in principle—dramatic, sultry, fun—but the eye makeup look can be elusive to master. It might feel like a tall order to a newbie; smoked-out lids call for a few brushes, a couple of different products and an ace blending technique. But, when the steps are broken down, it’s clear that a smokey eye is actually perfect for a neophyte—you don’t need a steady hand when drawing on eyeliner or applying product onto your crease, because eventually everything is going to be smudged and blended in anyway. 


Here’s how to do it in seven simple steps.

Step 1: Prep your eyelids

Before applying any eye makeup, it's important to prep your eyelids to create a smooth and even surface for the look. Use an eye primer or concealer to create a base for the eyeshadow to stick to. This will also help the eyeshadow stay on longer without creasing.

‍

‍Step 2: Choose your colours

To achieve a brown smokey eye look, choose an eyeshadow palette with shades that range from light to dark brown. Go for black, grey, and silver shades for a black smokey eye. It's essential to have a range of shades to create the gradient effect that’s characteristic of a smokey eye.

Step 3: Apply the base colour‍

The base colour sets the tone for the entire smokey eye look. Use a light beige or nude colour for a brown smokey eye, like the KIRO Longwear Brightening Eyeshadow Stick in Nude Pearl. For a black smokey eye, use a light grey or silver – try the By Terry Ombre Blackstar Eye Shadow in N15 Ombre Mercure. Apply the base colour all over your eyelid and blend it outwards. ‍

‍

Step 4: Next, the eyeshadow

Using a fluffy eyeshadow brush, apply the lightest shade of brown or grey eyeshadow to the inner corner of your eyelid. Apply the medium shade to the centre of your eyelid and the darkest shade to the outer corner of your eyelid. Use a blending brush to blend and diffuse the shades, creating a seamless gradient. ‍

‍

Step 5: Add definition

To add definition to your smokey eye makeup, use a black or dark brown eyeliner to line your upper lash line. You can make a thick line at the outer corner of your eyes for a more dramatic look. Using a smudging brush to blend the eyeliner into the eyeshadow allows for a seamless transition with no harsh lines. ‍

‍

Step 6: Add a little shimmer

Add a speck of champagne or gold eyeshadow to the inner corners of your lids to brighten your eyes. Every time you blink, it’ll sparkle, creating a subtle brightening effect.  ‍

‍

Step 7: Mascara to finish

Finish off your smokey eye look by applying mascara to your lashes. Curl your lashes first, then apply two coats of mascara to your upper lashes and one coat to your lower lashes. This will help open up your eyes and make you look more awake.