A simple step-by-step smokey eye for beginners

The smokey eye is a timeless makeup look that can add instant drama and sophistication to any occasion. However, many beginners are intimidated by the technique, fearing it will look messy or over-the-top. The good news is that a simple smokey eye is surprisingly easy to achieve. You don’t need a dozen products or professional-level skills. With the right approach and a few key products, you can master a quick smokey eye that looks beautifully blended and effortlessly chic. This easy smokey eye tutorial will guide you through each step, ensuring you get a perfect result without the stress.

Before you even pick up a brush, it’s important to prep your eyelids. Just like the skin on your face, your eyelids can get oily, which causes eyeshadow to crease and fade. To prevent this, apply a thin layer of eyeshadow primer to your entire lid, from the lash line up to the brow bone. A primer creates a smooth base for the eyeshadow to adhere to, making blending easier and ensuring your look lasts all day and night. If you don’t have a primer, a small amount of concealer set with a translucent powder will also do the trick.

Choosing your colors and brushes

The key to a beginner-friendly smokey eye is choosing the right colors. While a classic black smokey eye is iconic, it can be unforgiving if you’re new to the technique. Instead, start with softer, more blendable shades. A palette with shades of brown, taupe, gray, or even deep plum is perfect. You’ll generally need three shades from the same color family: a light shade for highlighting, a medium shade for the transition, and a dark shade for definition. This creates a gradient effect that is the hallmark of a well-executed smokey eye.

You also don’t need an arsenal of brushes. To learn how to do a smokey eye, you really only need two essential brushes. First, a flat shader brush is used to pack the eyeshadow onto your lid for maximum color payoff. Second, and most importantly, is a fluffy blending brush. This brush is the magic wand for any smokey eye look, as it diffuses harsh lines and seamlessly blends the colors together. Having a clean blending brush on hand is also helpful to soften the edges without adding more product.

Creating your simple smokey eye

Now you’re ready to start the application. Follow these simple steps for a flawless finish. The main principle is to build the color in layers and to blend, blend, blend!

• Step 1: Apply the Mid-Tone Shade. Take your medium shade on the fluffy blending brush and sweep it into your crease using windshield-wiper motions. This will act as your transition color and create a soft gradient.
• Step 2: Define with the Dark Shade. Using the flat shader brush, press the darkest shade onto your eyelid, keeping it close to the lash line. You can build this color up until you reach your desired intensity. Don’t worry about it looking perfect just yet.
• Step 3: Blend Everything Together. Take your fluffy blending brush again (with no extra product) and gently blend the edge of the dark shade into the transition color in your crease. Use small, circular motions to soften any harsh lines. This is the most crucial step.
• Step 4: Smoke Out the Lower Lash Line. Take a small amount of the medium or dark shade on a smaller brush and smudge it along your lower lash line to tie the whole look together.
• Step 5: Highlight. Apply the lightest, shimmery shade to the inner corner of your eye and just under the arch of your eyebrow. This brightens the look and adds dimension.

Finish your simple smokey eye with a coat of black eyeliner on your upper lash line and plenty of mascara. This will define your eyes and make them pop. With practice, this quick smokey eye will become a go-to in your makeup routine. For high-quality eyeshadow palettes perfect for beginners, visit the ScentSphere shop.