Creating a Smoky Eye

One of the most sought after and sexy makeup looks is the smoky eye. Unfortunately, deep plums or dark charcoal colors on your eyelids can be tough to get right. Before you slip on your little black dress for your next night on the town, experiment with these tips for creating a smoky eye worthy of the red carpet.

Before you begin, get your selection of shadows ready. To make this look easy to master, consider investing in a specially designed smoky eye shadow palette. There are several on the market now from drugstore to department store. Otherwise you'll need to choose three hues in the same family, one light, one medium and one dark.

First apply an eye shadow primer, concealer or foundation to your eyelid. Starting with a smooth base sets you up for a crease free finish. Next use an eye shadow brush to sweep the lightest color across your eyelid. Then use the medium hue, blend it into the crease of your eye all the way to your lash line. Now with the same brush, add contour by apply the darkest color just in your crease. Blend it well. A little shimmer can look pretty along your brow bone or in the corner of your eye near the tear duct.

To give your dark eye definition, use a black eyeliner pencil to create a thin line along your top lashes. You can keep it clean or smudge the line. You can also line your lower lashes, but beware that this area almost always smudges even if you don't want it to. Then complete the look with two coats of mascara, a dust of blush or bronzer and a light subtle lip color.