How to Create a Smokey Eye Makeup Look

Smokey eye has been a popular makeup technique for many years. It involves using different eyeshadow shades to create a striking, dramatic look around the eyes. This versatile style can be dressed up for fancy events or worn more subtly for every day. This makeup look is flattering on most people because it adds depth and definition to the eyes. 

Smokey eye makeup, exploring different techniques, product recommendations, and step-by-step tutorials to help you achieve that smoldering, come-hither gaze. So, grab your makeup brushes, and let’s get smokey!

People Should Look:

1. Step-by-Step Tutorials People will want clear, detailed step-by-step instructions for achieving different variations of the smokey eye look, such as a classic black/gray smokey eye, colored smokey eyes like burgundy or blue, and a soft, subtle daytime smokey eye.
2. Product Recommendations Readers will be interested in recommendations for the best eyeshadow palettes, eyeliners, eyeshadow primers, brushes, and other makeup products to use for creating a flawless smokey eye.
3. Application Tips & Tricks
4. They’ll look for pro tips and tricks on techniques like blending the eyeshadow, lining the eyes, adding depth, and getting the right intensity for their desired smokey eye style.
5. Smokey Eye for Different Eye Shapes Guidance on how to modify or tweak the smokey eye application based on different eye shapes, such as hooded, deep-set, protruding, etc.
6. Occasion & Day/Night Makeup Suggestions for creating a soft, work-appropriate smokey eye versus a bold, dramatic smokey eye for formal evening events or nights out.

Understanding the Smokey Eye

Before we discuss the application, let’s appreciate the smokey eye in all its glory.

History of the Smokey Eye

The smokey eye has been around for ages, with its roots dating back to ancient Egypt, where kohl liner was used to create a sultry, smudged effect around the eyes. Over time, this look evolved into the modern smokey eye we know and love today, becoming a staple in the makeup routines of glamour icons like Elizabeth Taylor and Brigitte Bardot.

Art of the Smokey Eye

At its core, the smokey eye is all about creating depth and dimension around the eyes using various shades of eyeshadow, liner, and sometimes even mascara. The key is to blend and diffuse the colors seamlessly, creating a gradient effect that starts intense at the lash line and gradually fades out towards the brow bone.

Occasions for a Smokey Eye

Depending on the intensity and color palette you choose, this look can be dressed up or down for any occasion:

• Formal Events: A classic black or gray smokey eye is a showstopper for formal events like weddings, galas, or black-tie affairs.
• Date Night: For a date night or intimate dinner, add a touch of romance with a sultry burgundy or plum smokey eye.
• Girls’ Night Out: Get bold and playful with a vibrant blue or green smokey eye for a night out with your besties.
• Everyday Glam: Even for daily wear, a subtle, softly diffused smokey eye can add just the right amount of drama and sophistication.

Smokey Eye Makeup Essentials

Before we begin the step-by-step tutorials, let’s review the essential tools and products you’ll need to create a flawless smokey eye.

Brushes

• Fluffy Blending Brush: A large, fluffy brush is critical for diffusing and blending out the eyeshadow colors seamlessly.
• Pencil Brush: A small, dense pencil brush is perfect for packing on color in the outer corner and along the lash line.
• Angled Liner Brush: An angled brush will help you achieve a precise, smudged liner look for added definition.

Eyeshadows

• Matte Eyeshadows: Matte eyeshadows in various shades of black, gray, brown, or your preferred color palette are essential for creating depth and defining the smokey eye shape.
• Shimmery Eyeshadows (optional): While not mandatory, a touch of shimmery eyeshadow in the center of the lid can add a beautiful, luminous dimension to your smokey eye.

Eyeliners

• Kohl or Pencil Liner: A soft, smudgeable kohl or pencil liner is perfect for lining the waterline and tightening the upper lash line.
• Gel or Liquid Liner (optional): For added intensity and precision, you can also use a gel or liquid liner to create a crisp, defined wing or flick at the outer corner.

Other Essentials

• Eyeshadow Primer: A good eyeshadow primer will help your smokey eye makeup last all day (or night) without creasing or fading.
• Mascara: Finish off your smokey eye with a volumizing or lengthening mascara to complement the dramatic eye makeup.
• Makeup Remover: Having a gentle yet effective makeup remover on hand is essential for cleaning up any fallout or mistakes during application.

Step-by-Step Smokey Eye Tutorials

Now that you’ve got your arsenal of makeup essentials, it’s time to dive into the step-by-step tutorials for creating different types of smokey eye looks.

Classic Black or Gray Smokey Eye

This timeless look is perfect for formal events, date nights, or anytime you want to exude glamour and sophistication.

1. Prime the Eye Area: Start by applying an eyeshadow primer from the lash line to the brow bone to create a smooth, even base for your eyeshadow.
2. Apply the Base Color: Using a fluffy blending brush, sweep a matte black or gray eyeshadow across the entire lid and into the crease.
3. Define the Outer Corner: With a pencil brush, pack the same dark eyeshadow shade onto the outer corner of the eye, creating a “V” shape and extending slightly past the outer corner.
4. Blend, Blend, Blend: Using your fluffy blending brush, start diffusing and softening the edges of the dark eyeshadow, creating a gradient effect that fades towards the brow bone.
5. Line the Eyes: Using a kohl or pencil liner, tight line the upper lash line and line the waterline for added intensity and definition.
6. Optional: Create a Wing: For an extra dramatic touch, use a gel or liquid liner to create a precise winged liner at the outer corner of the eye.
7. Add Depth with Mascara: To complement the smokey eye, finish off the look with a few coats of volumizing or lengthening mascara.

Burgundy or Plum Smokey Eye

This romantic, sultry variation is perfect for date nights or any occasion where you want to add a touch of warmth and depth.

1. Prime the Eye Area: Start with an eyeshadow primer to create a smooth base.
2. Apply the Base Color: Using a fluffy blending brush, sweep a matte burgundy or plum eyeshadow across the entire lid and into the crease.
3. Deepen the Outer Corner: With a pencil brush, pack a deeper, richer shade of burgundy or plum onto the outer corner of the eye, creating a “V” shape and extending slightly past the outer corner.
4. Blend and Diffuse: Use your fluffy blending brush to softly diffuse the edges of the darker eyeshadow, creating a gradient effect that fades towards the brow bone.
5. Line the Eyes: Use burgundy or plum kohl or pencil liner to tighten the upper lash line and line the waterline for added depth and definition.
6. Optional: Add Shimmer: For a touch of luminosity, apply a shimmery eyeshadow in a complementary shade (like a soft pink or champagne) to the center of the lid.
7. Finish with Mascara: Complete the look with a few coats of volumizing or lengthening mascara.

Vibrant Blue or Green Smokey Eye

This bold and playful variation is perfect for a night out with your friends or any time you want to make a statement with your eye makeup.

1. Prime the Eye Area: Start with an eyeshadow primer to create a smooth base.
2. Apply the Base Color: Using a fluffy blending brush, sweep a matte blue or green eyeshadow across the entire lid and into the crease.
3. Deepen the Outer Corner: With a pencil brush, pack a deeper, richer shade of blue or green onto the outer corner of the eye, creating a “V” shape and extending slightly past the outer corner.
4. Blend and Diffuse: Use your fluffy blending brush to softly diffuse the edges of the darker eyeshadow, creating a gradient effect that fades towards the brow bone.
5. Line the Eyes: Use a blue or green kohl or pencil liner to tighten line the upper lash line and line the waterline for added intensity and definition.
6. Optional: Add Shimmer: For a touch of luminosity, apply a shimmery eyeshadow in a complementary shade (like soft gold or champagne) to the center of the lid.
7. Finish with Mascara: Complete the look with a few coats of volumizing or lengthening mascara.

Soft and Subtle Smokey Eye

This toned-down version of the smokey eye is perfect for everyday wear, or anytime you want a more understated, natural-looking smokey eye.

1. Prime the Eye Area: Start with an eyeshadow primer to create a smooth base.
2. Apply the Base Color: Using a fluffy blending brush, sweep a light, matte brown, or taupe eyeshadow across the entire lid and into the crease.
3. Define the Outer Corner: With a pencil brush, pack a slightly deeper shade of brown or taupe onto the outer corner of the eye, creating a soft “V” shape and extending slightly past the outer corner.
4. Blend and Diffuse: Use your fluffy blending brush to softly diffuse the edges of the darker eyeshadow, creating a subtle gradient effect that fades towards the brow bone.
5. Line the Eyes: Use a brown or taupe kohl or pencil liner to gently line the upper lash line and outer half of the waterline for added definition.
6. Optional: Add Shimmer: For a touch of luminosity, apply a shimmery eyeshadow in a soft, neutral shade (like champagne or light gold) to the center of the lid.
7. Finish with Mascara: Complete the look with a coat or two of lengthening or defining mascara.

Smokey Eye Makeup Tips and Tricks

To help you achieve smokey eye perfection, here are some pro tips and tricks to keep in mind:

1. Start with a Clean Base: Always begin with a freshly cleansed and moisturized face to ensure your makeup applies smoothly and lasts throughout the day (or night).
2. Use an Eyeshadow Primer: An eyeshadow primer is a game-changer for long-lasting smokey eye makeup, preventing creasing and fading.
3. Build Up the Intensity Gradually: When it comes to smokey eyes, it’s better to start with a lighter application and gradually build up the intensity rather than going in too heavy from the start.
4. Blend: Use your fluffy blending brush to diffuse and soften the edges of the eyeshadow for a flawless gradient effect.
5. Clean Up with Concealer: If you experience any fallout or mistakes during application, use a small brush or makeup sponge to clean up the area with a bit of concealer.
6. Set with Powder (Optional): To set the eyeshadow for extra longevity, lightly dust translucent powder over the lid and crease area.
7. Finish with Mascara: Remember to complete your smokey eye look with a few coats of volumizing or lengthening mascara to really make your eyes pop.

Smokey Eye Makeup Products Recommendations

To help you achieve the perfect smokey eye, here are some product recommendations from trusted brands:

Eyeshadow Palettes

• Urban Decay Naked Smoky Eyeshadow Palette: This iconic palette features a range of matte and shimmery shades that are perfect for creating various smokey eye looks.
• Anastasia Beverly Hills Soft Glam Eyeshadow Palette: With its rich, pigmented shades and versatile color selection, this palette is a must-have for smokey eye enthusiasts.
• Huda Beauty Obsessions Eyeshadow Palette (Smokey Edition): Compact and travel-friendly, this palette offers a curated selection of smokey eye essentials.

Eyeliners

• Kat Von D Tattoo Liner (Trooper Black): This cult-favorite liquid liner is perfect for creating precise, long-lasting winged liner looks.
• Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil (Perversion): A creamy, smudgeable pencil liner that’s ideal for tightening and smoking out the lash line.
• Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner: This versatile gel liner can be used for both precise lining and smudged, smokey effects.

Eyeshadow Primers

• Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion: A cult-favorite primer that keeps eyeshadow in place and vibrant for hours on end.
• Too Faced Shadow Insurance Eyeshadow Primer: This unique primer not only extends the wear of your eyeshadow but also intensifies the pigmentation.
• Milani Eyeshadow Primer: An affordable yet effective option for creating a smooth, crease-free base for your smokey eye.

Brushes

• Sigma Beauty Smokey Eye Brush Set: This comprehensive set includes all the essential brushes for creating flawless smokey eye looks.
• Morphe Brushes Jaclyn Hill Eye Master Collection: This affordable brush set features a variety of shapes and sizes that are perfect for smokey eye application and blending.
• Makeup Shack Makeup Brushes Set: A budget-friendly option that includes a fluffy blending brush, pencil brush, and angled liner brush for smokey eye looks.

Smokey Eye Makeup Tips for Different Eye Shapes

While the smokey eye is a universal look, specific techniques can be used to enhance and flatter different eye shapes:

Hooded Eyes

• Concentrate most of the smokey eyeshadow on the outer corner and lid, avoiding too much product in the crease area.
• Use a lighter hand when applying eyeshadow to the brow bone area to prevent it from disappearing when your eyes are open.
• Create a more dramatic winged liner to open up and lift the eye area.

Deep-Set Eyes

• Apply eyeshadow with a lighter hand to the lid and crease area to prevent the eyes from appearing too recessed.
• Focus on blending the eyeshadow outwards and upwards towards the brow bone to create the illusion of lifted, more prominent eyes.
• Avoid overly thick or heavy liner, as it can make deep-set eyes appear smaller.

Protruding Eyes

• Use a deeper, more intense smokey eye application to help create the illusion of more recessed eyes.
• Focus on blending the eyeshadow inwards towards the nose bridge and downwards towards the outer corner to help balance the eye area.
• Opt for a thicker, more dramatic liner to help define and balance the eye shape.

Small Eyes

• Use lighter, more shimmery shades on the lid and inner corner to create the illusion of more enormous, more open eyes.
• Concentrate the darker, smokier shades on the outer corner and lower lash line to help elongate the eye shape.
• Use a thinner, more precise winged liner to help open up and elongate the eyes.

Wide-Set Eyes

• Use a deeper, more intense smokey eye application to help create the illusion of closer-set eyes.
• Focus on blending the eyeshadow inwards towards the nose bridge and downwards towards the outer corner to help balance the eye area.
• Opt for a thicker, more dramatic liner to help define and balance the eye shape.

Smokey Eye Makeup for Different Occasions

The beauty of the smokey eye lies in its versatility. With a few simple tweaks and adjustments, you can create a smokey eye look that’s perfect for any occasion.

Daytime or Office-Appropriate Smokey Eye

• Opt for softer, more neutral shades like light browns, taupes, or grays for a subtle, work-appropriate smokey eye.
• Keep the intensity concentrated on the outer corner and lower lash line, keeping the lid and crease area relatively light.
• Use a brown or taupe kohl liner to gently define the lash line, avoiding overly harsh or dramatic liner.
• Finish with a coat of lengthening or defining mascara for a polished, office-friendly look.

Nighttime or Formal Event Smokey Eye

• Go bold with more resounding, richer shades, such as blacks, charcoals, or jewel tones, for a dramatic, evening-appropriate smokey eye.
• Create a more intense, diffused application, focusing on blending the eyeshadow outwards and upwards towards the brow bone.
• Use a black or dark gray kohl liner to tightline and define the lash line, and consider adding a precise winged liner for extra glamour.

Absolutely! Here are some additional tips, examples, and final thoughts to round out this comprehensive guide on creating a smokey eye makeup look:

Additional Smokey Eye Tips

1. Makeup Setting Spray: To ensure your smokey eye stays put all day (or night) long, finish off the look with a makeup setting spray. This will help meld the eyeshadows together and prevent any fading or creasing.
2. Transition Shades: For a seamless, well-blended smokey eye, consider using a transition shade – a matte eyeshadow that’s slightly lighter than your main smokey shade. Apply this in the crease area to help diffuse and soften the edges of the darker colors.
3. Highlight the Brow Bone: To make your eyes appear more open and lifted, apply a matte or shimmery highlight shade along the brow bone. This will create a subtle contrast and add dimension to your smokey eye.
4. Tight-line the Upper Lash Line: Tight-lining the upper lash line (applying eyeliner between the lashes) can add extra depth and intensity to your smokey eye, making your lashes appear fuller and more defined.
5. False Lashes (Optional): For a theatrical, showstopping smokey eye, consider adding a pair of false lashes. Choose a fluffy, wispy style to complement the sultry vibe of your smokey eye makeup.

Smokey Eye Examples

1. Copper or Bronze Smokey Eye: This warm, metallic variation is perfect for adding a touch of glamour to any look. Use shades of copper, bronze, and warm browns for a rich, smoldering effect.
2. Burgundy and Gold Smokey Eye: A stunning combination for fall or holiday parties. Layer burgundy and plum shades with pops of shimmery gold for a luxurious, festive smokey eye.
3. Cool-Toned Gray Smokey Eye: For a sleek, modern take on the classic smokey eye, try layering various shades of gray, from charcoal to silvery tones. This cool-toned variation is perfect for creating a sophisticated, edgy look.
4. Monochromatic Smokey Eye: Instead of using multiple shades, try creating a smokey eye with just one eyeshadow color. This monochromatic approach can be striking and intense while still maintaining a cohesive and polished appearance.
5. Colorful Smokey Eye: Be bold and experiment with bold, vibrant colors for your smokey eye. Shades like electric blue, emerald green, or even a bright fuchsia can create a fun, fashion-forward look that’s perfect for special occasions or nights out with friends.

Final Thoughts

The smokey eye is a timeless makeup technique that has stood the test of time for a reason – it’s versatile, flattering, and utterly captivating. Whether you prefer a subtle, everyday smokey eye or a full-on, jaw-dropping glamour look, mastering this skill will open up a world of possibilities for your makeup routine.

Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be discouraged if your first few attempts aren’t flawless. Experiment with different techniques, color combinations, and product formulas until you find what works best for your eye shape, skin tone, and personal style.

Most importantly, have fun with it! Makeup is an art form, and the smokey eye is your canvas to express your creativity and unique beauty. So, go forth and slay those smokey-eye looks with confidence and style!

If you ever find yourself in need of additional guidance or inspiration, don’t hesitate to consult with professional makeup artists or refer to trusted online resources and tutorials. With dedication and an open mind, you’ll be a smokey-eye master in no time!