How to Design the Perfect Smoky Eye

Classic yet modern, both elegant and edgy, the smoky eye is arguably the coolest thing that you can do with your makeup for fall. And this season, the beauty staple has returned with a street-chic, everyday appeal that’s great for day or night. Follow these simple steps to achieve the most fashionable of all eye looks.

1. Begin by moisturizing the delicate skin around your eyes. Use either your daily moisturizer or an eyelid primer to hydrate skin and prevent creping.

2. Next, create a base by applying a soft, semi-neutral shade of eye shadow. Use an eye shadow brush to sweep over your entire lid up to your brow bone. 

3. Then, add depth and definition by applying a bolder shade into the crease of the eye. Use the Crease Brush to work the shadow into the crease of your eye with a sweeping motion. (This should be a back and forth, windshield wiper motion.) Remember, blending is crucial.

4. Line your upper lash line with a waterproof eye pencil or gel eyeliner, depending on the amount of intensity you're going for. Start from the inside and work your way out, lining a little thicker in the middle. To take your smoky eye to the next level, go back over your eyeliner with a complementary eye shadow shade. Apply it over top of the liner and blend the colours together to achieve that sultry, smoky effect.

5. Finish off your smoky eyes with a lengthening, thickening mascara.

Remember to have fun with your look. Gray and black shadows and liners are perfect for a smoky eye, but you’re choices aren’t limited to these classic colours. Try jewel tones like purple and green for a fresh, modern take on the classic smoky eye. Check out our Get the Look page for more tips on how to create fall's colourful smoky eye.