If you want to avoid looking overdone, try to keep the rest of your makeup fairly simple. Foundation and a little blush can go a long way in supporting your smokey eye.

This helps create a neutral backdrop for the darker eyeshadows, and it’ll also help your eyeshadow stay in place a lot better. [4] X Expert Source Alana SchoberPout Pro Makeup Artist Expert Interview. 15 June 2021. Try using a primer that’s a few shades lighter than your natural skin tone to really help your smokey eye pop. [5] X Expert Source Alana SchoberPout Pro Makeup Artist Expert Interview. 15 June 2021.

Take your time while doing your brows. The last thing you want is different lengths and looks on either side of your face!

This step simply helps to create a slight separation between your dark brows and what will soon be your smokey eye.

Plum Deep purple Emerald green Navy blue Bronze Gray Other jewel tones

A huge part of the smokey eye is creating a color gradient, with the darkest shade being closest to the lid. Experts recommend starting with the lighter shade on the crease of your lid so that it’ll be easier to blend in the darker shadow later.

Avoid pressing down too hard with your brush. Use a light hand to create a sophisticated look. If you want a bolder look, you can go ahead and apply more of both shades of eyeshadow. Just make sure to keep blending them together where they meet so that the gradient looks natural.

A soft eyeliner works best for a smokey eye. It tends to blend in more naturally and it won’t be as noticeable if you make a mistake. You can always take your blending brush and smooth out the line between the liner and the shadow if you prefer.

To create a thicker line at the edges, simply use a little bit more pressure when applying the shadow or liner. A light hand creates a thin line, and a heavier hand creates a thicker line. Your lower lashes should still be visible, so don’t make the shadowed section extend down so far that your lashes get completely lost.

If the shadow looks too bright or out of place, pat it with your ring finger to remove some of it without completely smudging it away.

If you don’t like lipstick, try out a lip gloss, lip stain, or tinted balm.

If it’s going to be hot or humid, look for a sweat-resistant spray.