The Smokey Eye Guide

By Jayme Chandler

Sexy, sultry, and sure to cause a scene, the smokey eye is my favorite look for a fun occasion. On a day-to-day basis, I opt for more natural makeup— it’s more appropriate for the office and frankly takes way less time in the morning. But the rarity and effort of the smokey eye is what makes it so stunning. While the smokey eye is traditionally reserved for nighttime events, lighter, earthier shades can make it an excellent choice for daytime events when you’re looking for that “wow” factor. Below are my favorite smokey eye styles, as well as my favorite tips for achieving this sexy look!

Super smokey

The bolder, the better! For a super smokey look, use the darker shades in your eyeshadow palette. Start with lining your entire eye, including the inner corners. Then go in with your choice of dark eyeshadow— I recommend a deep brown or a dark grey. Start on the lid of your eye and work it to the corners for a cat-eye effect. Then, use your brush and follow your bottom lash line. Blend, blend, blend until you have your desired shade. Finish with a coat of mascara, and don’t be afraid to go in with a q-tip for any smudges or smears!

Earthy tones

For a more subtle version of the super smokey eye, go with the lighter browns on your palette. Earthy tones look especially striking with blue eyes as brown, gold, and orange undertones really make the blue pop. I love pairing earthy tones with a darker liner for night events. Don’t be afraid to blend extra for a softer smokey eye because the more you blend, the lighter the eyeshadow will be.

Au natural

Lose the liner for an au natural look! Let your natural beauty shine for this day time approach to the smokey eye. Keep it subtle but sultry by applying the smokey with soft browns and pinks. Apply the shadow lightly on just your eyelid and blend in circular motions. Less is more with this natural look, so I recommend blowing on your brush before for a lighter application.

Highlighted

For a highlighted smokey eye, use grey, brown, and purple tones. Apply the smokey eye softly and create a cat-eye effect. Then, use a shimmery highlighter along your brow bone. The highlighter will frame your smokey eye, make your brows pop, and is a subtle, yet gorgeous effect.

Pretty in pink

I love a pink smokey eye because it’s subtle yet stunning. This is my favorite smokey eye, and it looks best on hazel eyes, as the pink brings out the green and yellow. Use brown shades around your eyes and then go for pink on your eyelid, under your eye, and moving to the corners. I prefer to use my blush for this smokey eye look, as it’s the perfect shade of pink and matches the accent of my cheeks.

Photos via Brydie, @selenagomez, Allure, @lilyjcollins, @haileybieber