Smoky Eye Makeup Looks: Inspiration From Celebrities

Alongside a red lip, a smoky eye is one of the most striking makeup looks you can master. The leather jacket of beauty, smoky eyes go with absolutely everything and can toughen up an otherwise unremarkable outfit. 

Seductive, evening-ready and smokin' hot, you can't go far wrong with smouldering eyes, so it's worth getting on top of your technique, not least, because it's party season and if you can't sizzle with glammed-up blended-out eyeshadow now, then when?

Not only that, but it is the first party season we've had since 2019 (yes, two whole years) due to the pandemic and while we're still taking the best precautions to celebrate with our loved ones in the safest way, Christmas parties are back and so is our signature glam. 

From dark black, to emerald, to subtle brown and bronze shades, a darker eye suits just about everyone. But one spot in particular is an ample source of inspiration – the red carpet. Celebs such as Adele, Kourtney Kardashian and Cynthia Erivo rock the look regularly.

It turns out, it's easier than you'd think – provided you're armed with a decent eyeshadow palette.

Creating it at home is also a lot easier than it may look, especially when you've got a step-by-step guide from a professional to refer back to throughout the process. Expert makeup artist Rachelle Grimes recommends using a minimum of three shades, "light, warm and dark". She also advocates having a play around with shades to find what you like. "Remember to compliment your eye shade – a smoky eye doesn't have to be greys and blacks. For instance, warm browns, oranges and golds can pop a blue and green eye," she says.

"Always start with an eye base! If you don't have one, a concealer all over the eye lid has the same effect," says Rachelle. "Also, I like to add a loose powder on top to create a matte base and ensure there's no creasing."

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