-TIPS & TRICKS
FOR THE PERFECT SMOKY EYE
Twin sets are usually one of the most popular trends because of their BY KONYE CHELSEA comfort and versatility. NWABOGOR Whether you’re heading to a weekend brunch or a cocktail party, they are a stylish upgrade to your trusted skinny jeans or slacks. It’s actually quite simple to switch certain looks from day to night. And with Twin sets, you can pull off same outfit for different events just by changing accessories. CHIC AMA has shown us how to effortlessly do this.
1. Don’t try to make it perfect.
It seems oxymoronic, given the whole point of this story, right? But it turns out, adopting a more effortless approach is — somewhat ironically — what will make a smoky eye look so good. It’s OK if you haven’t mastered your brush technique or can’t draw liner on completely straight. You don’t have to worry about everything being perfect. After all, everything is going to get smudgy and blended together in the end.
2. Use the right brush.
It really does make all the difference. You want a soft brush that can apply and move product very lightly so that the layer of color isn’t too dense. A smoky eye should have that ethereal, floaty look. Heavy color application will make it look like soot, not smoke. Go with a small, flat brush with fluffy bristles to help diffuse and blend the product.
3. Go monochromatic.
If you feel like using multiple colors, knock yourself out, but playing with just one makes for a fresh and modern take on the standard smoky eye (not to mention is much easier to do). Dust it all over your lids, then go back in and add an extra layer just on the outer corners. This creates that same swirly, smoky effect that you’d get if you were to use two or three different shades. Finish with some smudgy black liner along your top lash line and you’re good to go. Yes, it’s that easy.
4. Choose the right liner.
Speaking of liner, pencils tend to work best for creating the soft and smudgy lines a smoky eye calls for. You could try twist-up pencils specifically; they’re slightly softer than their traditional counterparts, and the tip is always the same size, so you’ll get the same result every time.
5. Think beyond black and gray.
To the point of color, don’t be afraid to mix it up. While yes, a traditional smoky eye uses blacks and grays, there are no rules. Whether you’re going monochrome or using multiple shades, step out of that boring old box. Anything goes these days. Use whatever colours make you feel great when you put them on.
6. Add a touch of shimmer.
Smoky eyes don’t necessarily have the most eye-opening effects, so if you’re concerned about your eyes appearing smaller or recessed, try this trick: Dab a tiny dot of champagne-hued shimmer (shadow or highlighter works) directly above each iris. Every time you blink, that shimmer will reflect light ever so slightly and create a subtle brightening effect.