A Simple Guide To Creating A Black Smokey Eye

A smokey eye is like a little black makeup dress. It's flattering and never goes out of style. It is also perfect for a night out. But finding the right balance between sultry and sooty without looking like a raccoon can be difficult.

It looks incredible but is technique-heavy. Done right, you will end up looking fantastic. Done wrong, and you might end up looking like a clown.

In a classic smokey, you primarily play with black and any lighter color. But you can always do a modern take on smoky eye makeup by using gray, purple, orange, and pink as the base color.

What Is A Smokey Eye

The smokey eye look is typically characterized by applying dark eye shadow to your lids. It is an effect created by using dark eye shadow to the tops and smearing dark eyeliner along the upper and lower eyelashes lines.

The smokey eye is so popular because it is a versatile look that flatters everyone. You can keep it as simple as you want and not limited to a black/gray color spectrum. You're guaranteed to look like a smoking temptress if you take it off. But that's the trick - how do you nail a smoky eye without ending up looking like a baby panda?

When Was The Smokey Eye Invented?

Makeup artist Linda Cantello is the creator of the smokey eye we all know and love today. She created the look while working with Tom Ford during her time at Gucci in the 1990s.

The smokey eye never really went out of style. It just has a series of moments. When the no-makeup look was in full swing, the smokey eye didn't stop being chic but just took a backseat for a while.

How To Do A Smokey Eye

Pick a base shadow that is a shade lighter than your skin tone and pat it all over the upper eyelid. Start at the lash line and blend down to the forehead - this doubles as a subtle highlighter too. Apply a rich dark smoky brown to the lid and integrate it into the crease.

Blend dark brown or black eyeshadow in the upper lash line and crease for extra definition. Use an eyeshadow brush with longer, fluffier bristles and blend in small, circular motions (rather than sweeping side to side) for an even finish.