Perfect Smokey Eye in 5 Steps

Creating the perfect smokey eye can seem overwhelming and complicated, but don't let that deter you! With the right tools and steps, you too can achieve this stunning look. Perhaps the key to perfecting this dramatic makeup style lies in understanding that it's all about blending. The smokey eye is a gradient starting with the darkest color at the base of your lashes. When you're choosing eyeshadow, opt for highly pigmented options as these will give you a rich color payoff and easier blending. Remember to start slow, and slowly build the color up; it's much easier to add more product than to take it away.

Firstly, begin by applying a lighter shade of eyeshadow over the entire eyelid as a base, this helps your other eye makeup stay in place and last longer. Secondly, take a dark eyeshadow color and apply it to the outer corner of your eyelid and along the crease of your eye, create a 'V' shape. With a blending brush, blend this color into your base for a blended look. It's important to blend your eyeshadows properly to avoid any harsh lines or edges, blending also helps to display a beautiful transition of colors in a smokey eye look. Once you've blended the dark eye shadow to your liking, the third step involves applying a mid-tone color. Apply it in the middle of your eyelid and blend it towards the darker color you applied earlier.

The next step in creating the perfect smokey eye is applying eyeliner. Apply a black or dark eyeliner on the top eyelid along the lash line. Don't worry about making the line perfect as you'll be smudging it later to create the smokey effect. After applying eyeliner, smudge it into the crease of your eye and along the lash line. The last step completes the smokey eye look by adding mascara. Apply several coats for a more dramatic effect. And voila! You're ready to make heads turn with your perfect smokey eye! Remember, practice makes perfect, so don't be discouraged if your first attempt doesn't turn out exactly as you planned. Keep trying and soon you'll become a pro!