The smokey eye makeup looks classic, and it’s well-loved amongst makeup lovers and casual makeup wearers alike. This look suits a variety of occasions, matches all types of outfits, and makes the eyes look bold and catching.

You don’t need to be a professional makeup artist to do the smokey eye look. It’s possible for anybody to achieve this popular makeup style, and we’ve covered some important steps to follow for a professional-looking smokey eye.

Eyelid Preparation

Any creative, eye-focused makeup look begins with proper preparation. Begin the process by applying an eyeshadow primer or some concealer onto each eyelid to create a smooth and clean base.

Creating a smooth foundation makes it easier to apply your eyeshadow and prevents creasing or clumping that could make achieving a smokey eye difficult. Make sure you choose a high-quality primer that matches your skin tone appropriately.

Editor’s note: Even if you apply a base, adding a little powder over your eyelids will make it easier to blend the shadows.

Main Eyeshadows

Next, you’ll need to apply your eyeshadows. Choose colors and shades that suit your skin tone and complement your eye color but are also relatively dark. The smokey eye look is usually centered around blacks, browns, and greys but honestly any color can be made smokey, like the smokey purple shades below.

Transition and Outer Corner Shades

Grab a fluffy brush and apply your transition color, which will bridge the gap between your upper and lower eyelids, creating a smooth gradient from light to dark.

Your transition shade should be a neutral tone that is slightly darker than your skin tone. Apply it to the crease of your eyelid and use your fluffy brush to blur the edges and prevent harsh lines.

Find a smaller, denser brush to apply a slightly darker shade than your transition shade to the outer corner of your eyelid. Create a V shape by slowly applying the eyeshadow more densely from the medial to lateral aspects of your outer eyelid, making sure to blend the eyeshadow throughout.

Make sure you also put a little shadow under your eye and smudge the eyeliner a bit. This look is all about soft, smudges lines.

Inner Corner Highlight

This step isn’t necessarily needed for a smokey eye, but it can enhance your makeup look. Adding some highlight to the inner corner of your eyes can contrast the dark, smokey eyeshadow and make the color of your eyes pop, as can a touch of highlight on your browbone.

Mascara

Next, add some mascara to your lashes to complete your look and achieve a dark and stunning smokey eye. Make sure to apply the mascara across your entire lash line to ensure an even finish and wipe away any fallout underneath your eyes.

Lash Extensions

To finish your smokey eye look, apply some false eyelashes or lash extensions. Choose wispy lashes or go for thicker ones that give your natural lashes more volume. Adding lashes isn’t a necessary step but it’s a great idea for finishing your look.