5 Top Tips: Dark, Smoky Eyes

By Karinda Ristic
Professional Make-up Artist

There is not a look that is sexier then dark, smoky eyes.  It just screams glamour! Every woman should learn to create this look for those special occasions when you truly must have the ‘wow’ factor. Keep the center of attention on your dark smoldering eyes and down play the rest of your make-up with sheer and natural shades.  Add a nude glossy lip and you would be irresistible.

Tip 1
Apply a little bit of foundation, concealer and loose powder on your eyelid area, before you apply the dark shadow.  This will ensure that the eye area will feel silky and smooth making it much easier to apply the shadow and to blend it beautifully.  It is also the key to making your eyeshadow last for hours.

Tip 2
Always use a good quality eyeshadow that is very compact.  Be careful not to use “dusty, powdery” eyeshadows, because the shadow will end up everywhere except on the eyes and create a very messy look.  When you use good quality shadows it applies easily and creates a clean look.

Tip 3
Dab a sheer ivory highlighter over the protruding part of the brow bone.  This will give the eyes a larger and fresher look.  It will also open up the eyes and create a brightening effect.

Tip 4
Apply the dark grey eyeshadow with an eyeshadow brush to the eyelid and under-eye area.  Use either a blending brush or sponge and gently blend the edges of the shadow.  Avoid any hard lines and corners for obvious reasons.  Then apply a kohl black pencil to the inner upper and lower eyelid rims, making sure to smudge it into the lash line and to soften any edges.  This creates immediate drama. 

Tip 5
Finish off this look with applying black mascara on the top and bottom lashes.  Finally, if necessary, separate the lashes with a lash comb.

Note: This article was posted on http://www.destinyconnect.com/blogs/karinda/archive/2009/04/29/5-top-tips-for-darksmoky-eyes.aspx (29 April 2009)