The classic smokey eye is an incredibly versatile look that never goes out of style because it suits every skin tone, eye color, and shape. However, many women shy away from trying it at home because they think that it’s too hard to create (hello smudges and raccoon eyes), but with this smokey eye makeup tutorial from Vimi Joshi, M.A.C Global Senior Makeup Artist for the Middle East, the ultimate smoldering gaze is only a few easy-to-follow steps away.
To ensure you don’t ruin your base with eyeshadow fall out, we recommend starting with your eyes before applying foundation and concealer. It’s also best to stay away from blue hues, which can make you look like you have under eye circles. Instead, opt for black (as Joshi has done in this smokey eye makeup tutorial), gray, or brown shades. If you prefer a pop of color, then dark green shadows and liners are best.
THE HOW TO
1. Start by lining the inner water line of your eyes with the M.A.C Eye Kohl in Feline and smudge into the lower lash line.
2. Blend using brush #219 to create a smokey effect. Remember, blending is key when it comes to creating the perfect smokey eye.
3. Apply Fluid Line in Black Track all over the eyelids with brush #239 and blend well up towards the socket line.
4. Using brush #224, stipple the Eye Shadow in Carbon over the eyelids where you have applied the Fluid Line as a base. This will intensify and mattify the eye shadow.
5. Smudge the Eye Shadow in Carbon on the lower lash line using the brush #219.
6. Line the eyes with Liquid Liner in Boot Black with the brush #210 and extend slightly to create an extended “flick.”
7. Finish off the look with M.A.C In Extreme Dimension mascara.
THE TOOL KIT
1. M.A.C Eye Kohl in Feline US $16; AED/SAR 60
Specially formulated to provide deep, fully opaque coverage, the M.A.C Eye Kohl provides an intense, smoked finish with duo-chrome pearl, which can easily be smudged or blended.
2. M.A.C Pencil Brush #219 US $25; AED/SAR 91
The soft, smooth fibers of this brush are gathered into a pencil-shaped tip, making it ideal for blending eyeliner into eye shadow to create a smokey looking eye.
3. M.A.C Fluid Line in BlackTrack US $16; AED/SAR 60
Ultra-smooth, Fluidline’s gel formula provides the precision of a liquid liner with a silkier, softer finish.
4. M.A.C Eye Shader Brush #239 US $25; AED/SAR 91
This brush has a tapered, rounded edge with smooth, firm, fine fibers and can be used to build intense color on the eyelid.
5. M.A.C Tapered Blending Brush #224 US $32; AED/SAR 117
Ideal for controlled eye shadow application, this brush has soft fibers that taper to form a medium size dome shape.
6. M.A.C Eye Shadow in Carbon US $16; AED/SAR 58
Highly pigmented, these powder shadows apply evenly and blend well.
7. M.A.C Liquid Liner in Boot Black US $21; AED/SAR 77
Liquid Liner is the perfect product for lining and defining the eyes. Use it to subtly enhance or create bold lines. The firm, tapered tip of the applicator is easy to control and allows for a quick and precise application.
8. M.A.C Precise Eye Liner Brush #210 US $20; AED/SAR 73
With a finely pointed tapered tip, this brush is ideal for a controlled, ultra-fine application of any powder, liquid or cream-based eyeliner.
9. M.A.C In Extreme Dimension Mascara US $22; AED/SAR 80
This lightweight whipped formula saturates lashes root to tip, adds volume, extends length, and creates curl all while conditioning for softness and flexibility.