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I’ve just made a new eye makeup tutorial with some foolproof tips for achieving a smokey eye. This project is in partnership with Boots, which is promoting a campaign called “Eyes on the Prize” to inspire everyone to try bold eye looks for the party season. As winter festivities approach, it’s time to refresh our party makeup skills—especially since many of us haven’t attended gatherings in a while—and discover the perfect eye makeup styles that consistently work their magic.
Smokey eyes are among the most-searched makeup techniques online, and it’s no surprise why: there’s a fine line between a stunning smokey eye and a makeup mishap. Apply too much under the lower lashes, and you might end up resembling Alice Cooper. Fail to blend adequately, and your eyes could look tired. Over-blend, and your smokey eye wanders too far; overdo the rest of your makeup, and you’ll appear theater-ready instead.
Creating a smokey eye can be tricky, and I’ve turned to tutorials more times than I can count. Over the past year, I’ve worked on improving my smokey eye technique—not by going for bolder colors but by refining my approach. I’ve studied past successes to pinpoint what ensures an impressive smokey eye.
Based on my findings, I’ve put together a simple smokey eye tutorial that’s quick and requires thought and patience. It’s about building up shadow and liner to create softer lines and a slightly lifted effect at the corners of the eyes.
Here are my top tips for achieving a foolproof smokey eye, which have significantly improved my success rate:
Tip 1: Start by applying a base eyeshadow color on your lid. This might seem unnecessary, but it changes the surface texture, making it smoother and less oily, which helps other shadows blend better. I’ve used Deep Chic from the NARS Voyageur “Suede” palette, a favorite of mine for its versatile shades.
Tip 2: Use a chunky brush to blend your darker shadow. Though it feels clumsy, it saves time and creates a seamless finish. Apply the darker shade in a V shape along the outer top lashline and crease, then blend outwards toward your eyebrow’s tail for a lifted look. Check my Instagram for a visual guide on creating a subtle wing.
Tip 3: Apply the same shadows beneath the lower lashline, building them as you did on the lids. This softens eyeliner lines and offers a more flattering look. I used two Bare Minerals eyeliners inside the waterline for depth and subtlety.
Tip 4: Keep your eyes open while applying makeup to see how your eye’s final appearance aligns with the lid open, which is how it will be in most situations. I finished with Urban Decay’s Perversion mascara, known for adding buildable volume without crispiness.
Tip 5: Keep your brows understated to let your smokey eyes stand out. I used a Benefit brow brush with hairspray for a simple, groomed look rather than brow products.
For the rest of the makeup, I kept it minimal and fresh. I used Dior Forever Skin Glow, Fenty bronzer, Benefit’s Galifornia blush, and a my-lips-but-better lipstick look using a NYX lip liner and Bare Minerals lipstick.
That’s it—you’re set in about 15 minutes total, eyes and all. If you’re looking for a classic smokey eye with depth, this method delivers a sultry effect perfect for any festive occasion. Pair it with bold fashion choices and lively hairstyles, and you’re ready to party!