The basic Smokey

One of the most common looks I am asked to recreate is the "smokey eye". It seems to be the one makeup style that stays timeless. What most people do not realize is that your smokey eye does not need to be just black! There is a whole rainbow of colors out there that can be used to add effects to your look.

Now remember, there are so many different intensity levels to a smokey eye too. You can  make this look a wearable daytime staple or really step up your game and make it a super sultry dramatic eye.
Today I am going to give you my technique for a basic, semi-dramatic eye. First make sure you have all your tools necessary. As I stated in one of my earlier articles, I absolutely cannot live without my fluffy blending brush. It makes your shadow look airbrushed. Heres how we start:

• Always apply an eye primer (my favorite is still Urban Decay's Primer Potion) or a light layer of concealer to even out the eyelid and hold shadow on for longer.

• Apply a light neautral shade from lashline to browline. 

• Take your darkest color of choice (typically a black, brown,charcoal or spice it up with a hunter green or a deep purple) and blend the color from the lashline to the crease. The key to this look is blending your color so you never have a harsh line. I personally like to use my fluffy blending brush for most of the application.

• Blend the color in small circles in an upward and outward motion.

• Your eyeliner is now applied how your most comfortable. It can be applied before the eyeshadow for a softer look. Also the line can be drawn after for a more intense eye. I personally love using a cream eyeliner for this. The liner can be smudged, again for that softer look or left alone to make a harsh line (which is more intense).

• For a little "POP" add a light application of shimmer right under the browbone.

• Add some liner to your lower lashline and inner rims

• And lastly, top in with mascara (2 coats)

OH! And remember, a little color goes a long way. It's always easier to add more shadow then take the access off :)