The Smokey Eye: There's a Thin Line Between Classy & Tacky

hands down there is no eye makeup trend that i love more than a soft, sultry smokey eye -- with the key word being "soft".  it's not a new trend (but super hot this season) -- it's been around for quite some time and people all around have been trying to accomplish it -- with the key word being "trying". 

the smokey eyes requires one to apply darker shadow shades and layer and blend to make the eye pop and mystify. however, it's a difficult technique and before you know it, with every layer of shadow, stroke and dab, you quickly have achieved the overdone, trashy black eye! yikes! (c) porn star. additionally, many think "smokey eye" is interchangeable with raccoon eye -- not so much! (if you ever need a reference of someone who always does it right, check out my girl, kim k. ;-)

like i said, it's a hard look to get, especially because you have to apply dark pigments.  this technique does require brushes so, i AM sorry but the little sponge applicators aren't going to get the job done.  always remember, it's a lot easier to add than to remove so start subtle and soft and layer on and be sure to blend.   it may be a bit more time consuming than just throwing it on but in the end, you will be much more happy with the results.

the other great thing is that a smokey eye doesn't just have to come in grays, charcoal and black.  there is nothing more sexy and versatile than a purple smokey eye.  again, back to the concept of layering, if you do a smokey eye but lean toward the light, airy side, you can most definitely pull this look off for work or happy hour without looking like you are about to paint the town red.  another glAMorous and more diffused smokey eye is utilizing the brown palette.  this is perfect for any complexion and eye color.  in fact, this is by far my fave look for the blue/green-eyed girl because it draws out the brightness of her eye but does not overwhelm it.

last but certainly not least when it comes to the smokey eye look, you have to be mindful of the finish of the shadow: matte versus shimmer.  rule of thumb is that a matte will set your eyes back (hence why we place it in the crease of the eye) while shimmer will pull them to the forefront and that gives you that "pop".  with a smokey eye you always need a little bit of shimmer (notice i didn't say "glitter" - no thank you claire's boutique makeup from junior high).  in fact i like to mix the two and add the shimmer to the lid and keep matte to the crease and brow bone.  line your eyes with a coordinating liner (don't forget the inner rim and corners!) and pile up the mascara and keep cheeks lightly rosey (a natural flush look) and lips muted.  by doing so, you're smokey eyes are definitely saying "i AM classy..."