Ask many of the world’s top makeup artists and they’ll reassure you that there aren’t any rules when it comes to eyeshadow. Playful, exuberant shades in bright colours can work when done right, but it’s the actual ‘doing right’ that creates the question marks. The fact is, while colours on your lids can work, it does takes skill, of which not everyone has, so where does that leave us?
At the brown smoky eye, of course.
Consider the brown smoky eye the go-to eye makeup look of everyone from top models to superstars, like Rihanna here. It’s effortless, simple and unlike brights, really doesn’t require any technical skills, just a few good products and you’re off. Here’s how you can become a master…
Step 1: Pick your formula. Whether you’re going for a sultry shimmery look like Rihanna or a ’90s grunge inspired matte brown, the choice is yours. Both work really well, so just go with what looks and feels right at the time. Using a palette is a really great idea though as you get all the shades you need to create depth and dimension in one handy place.
Step 2: Once you’ve decided on your finish, start by working a cream or gold shadow over your entire eyelid. If you’ve gone for a shimmer finish, take the shadow into the inner corners of your eye and under your brow bone, as this works as a highlighter.
Step 3: Next, take the brown shadow and, using a fluffy eye shadow brush, buff the shadow into the eyelid, taking it from the crease down towards your lashline. Work the product in circular motions to get a really even finish, and build it up slowly until you reach your desired intensity. Remember: it’s much easier to build that to take away.
Step 4: Now, apply a darker shade of brown into the crease of the eyelid, using a thin eye shadow brush. Really use the brush to blend and buff the shadow so it creates an ombre effect as it seamlessly morphs into the other colours. When you open your eyes you should see the three different shades perfectly blending into each other. If you want more intensity, just add more of the darkest brown to the crease.
Step 5: Grab a liquid eye liner in either black or brown and slowly trace (or dab) the tip of the liner along your upper lash line. You don’t want there to be any gaps between your lashes and the line, so take your time to get it right. Now, take a black or brown pencil and fill in the fleshy part of your lower lashline – called the waterline – so that your entire eye area is rimmed with colour.
Step 6: To finish, simply load your freshly curled lashes with 3-4 coats of black or brown mascara and pair with your favourite foundation, bronzer and subtle contouring on the cheeks and a natural brown lip gloss.
Yaz x
Tell me Primpers…
What do you think of Rihanna’s makeup here?
Do you like it?
Do you like the brown smoky eye too?