Whether you’re going for a classic, dark smokey eye or opting for something vibrant and bold, this sexy look is one we just can’t quit. From start to finish, we’re bringing you the 10 essentials to create this smoldering look.
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1 of 10 Image Credits: Belk
Prime Time
Nothing is worse than a smokey eye that creases an hour into the night. For long days and even longer nights, Urban Decay's Eyeshadow Primer Potion will guarantee a long-lasting, crease-free shadow. Prep your eyelids by massaging a small amount of Primer Potion before applying makeup.
2 of 10 Image Credits: J.C. Penny
Sultry Shades
Whether you create a look that is playful or polished, you’ll want to invest in an eyeshadow palette similar to the NAKED2 that has a variety of shades to suit your preferences. Search for a base shade that is similar to your skin tone, a warmer, mid-tone transition shade, and a darker shade to smoke out the edges. We prefer matte shades for the lid and a satin shade to highlight the brow bone and tear duct.
3 of 10 Image Credits: Amazon
Blend, Blend, & More Blend
After applying eyeshadow, blending is a serious must. Perfect for applying and blending, this 7-piece brush set will meet all your eyeshadow needs. Tip: Use circular motions when blending, and remember to build drama by blending the deeper colors near the outer lid.
4 of 10 Image Credits: Nordstrom
Magnificent Metal
Add a pop of glam to your smokey eye with Magnificent Metal shadow by stila. The unique cream formula is buildable and creates a foil finish. You can build the shadow from a sheer shimmer to an opaque metallic in a variety of colors.
5 of 10 Image Credits: Walmart
Shadow Shields
Shadow shields help leave makeup application mess-free. Use the shields to protect your undereye area from shadow fallout or to create clean lines when applying winged eyeliner. They have a gentle adhesive and will leave you hands-free when applying your makeup.
6 of 10 Image Credits: Sephora
Line the Eyes
Dark, winged eyeliner will kick this look up a notch–or three. The highly-pigmented Kat Von D liner is waterproof and has a fade-,melt-, and run-resistant finish. For a feminine twist on the classic smokey eye, try using a plum, bronze, or coffee colored shadow as eyeliner.
7 of 10 Image Credits: Walmart
Don’t Forget the Lashes
No smokey eye is complete without fluffy, long, and luscious lashes. For an evening smokey eye, we prefer false eyelashes. Our favorite drugstore falsies are Ardell’s Natural Lashes because they give your lashes a soft, wispy look and have low price tag we can totally get behind.. These lush lashes are easily applied using eyelash glue and can be re-used for another night out with the girls.
8 of 10 Image Credits: Belk
Lengthy Lashes
For a subdued, smoldering shadow, skip the falsies and opt for mascara. Even with false eyelashes, you'll still need a couple light coats of mascara on your upper and lower lashes. Using black mascara will help your lashes pop against the various smokey hues. Unlike traditional mascara, Bobbi Brown's Smokey Eye Mascara builds volume lash by lash.
9 of 10 Image Credits: Macy's
Bold Brows
A well-groomed brow has the ability to transform your overall face structure and enhance your features. Tweezing a few strays or filling in the sparse areas can instantly create a more symmetrical appearance with a statement brow. The Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Whiz will shape and define your brows like no other product can.
10 of 10 Image Credits: Target
Nightly Ritual
Made to remove the toughest makeup, Neutrogena’s Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover is gentle and reliable. Prevent thin lashes, blemishes and breakouts by lightly applying the remover on your skin with a cotton pad. Whether you prefer makeup removing wipes or washes, it’s important to head to bed with clean skin.
