Smokey eye makeup tutorial: How to make a simple but sexy look in minutes
“A smokey look doesn’t have to be complicated,” explained Millie Goodwin, owner of the vegan and cruelty-free cosmetics brand. love cosmetics, a business she started and grew on Instagram when she was just 14 years old and made her own eyeshadow in her bedroom. Along with running her beauty brand, Millie also regularly posts videos to her audience of 80,000 followers on TikTok showing how to create stunning makeup looks.
With the holiday season fast approaching, many people may be looking for new ways to spice up their makeup. A smokey eye is a classic, and it’s one people needn’t be afraid of, regardless of their makeup experience.
Millie explained, “You can keep it simple by choosing no more than three shadows to make your eye stand out.” A smokey eye look can usually be paired with blacks and grays, but neutral shades or browns also work.
Generally, you will need to use a light shade, a medium shade, and a darker shade to create the effect. Many cosmetic brands offer smokey eyeshadow palettes if you’re unsure of the right colors to mix.
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“Always start by applying the light shades first and work your way up to darker tones to intensify the look as you gain confidence,” she says. “Start by applying your base eyeshadow all over the eyelid, then apply darker eyeshadow or eyeliner to the lash line. Blend the darker shadow towards the outer corner of your eye until until you have created the desired smokey effect.
The best way to blend your eye shadows is with a fluffy blending brush. “Remember to make sure you use different brushes for different shades,” Millie said. “It’s very important because if you use the same brush for each shade, it’s going to get messy.”
Bringing some of the eyeshadow under the eye adds even more emphasis and brings the look together. Millie explained: “For those feeling a bit daring, you can also add some shadow to the lower lash line and blend with your fingers for the ultimate smokey finish”
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If you are sure to use eyeliner, apply a kohl pencil to the lash line and the waterline. This can be smudged with your finger for more of a smoky line or left to create a defined look.
“A strip lash always works well with a smokey eye and really helps finish the look,” Millie added. The smokey eye can also be enhanced for the Christmas holiday season with a bit of shimmer. Millie explained, “Finally, add a hint of shimmer shadow or highlighter to give it a real luxurious feel.”
Love Cosmetics specializes in pressed glitters, liquid chromes and loose pigments that are perfect for enhancing your Christmas party makeup. Once your smokey eyeshadow look is complete, dab on your glitter, making sure to only saturate the lid. Start dabbing in the middle and then blend. For an extra kick, you can apply a little metallic eyeshadow to the corner of your eye.
