The simplified smokey eye

a smokey eye has a bit of a reputation for being difficult, but the easiest way to nail the look is with minimal products, in this case just two – an eye crayon and a good brush. Eye crayons are creamier, fatter and so much easier to use than a fiddly kohl liner. and they come in a variety of flattering shades, like golden beige, light taupe and silver, as opposed to scary I’m-goingto-look-like-I’ve-got-a-black-eye black. simply draw onto your lids – a few strokes above your lash line – and blend with a firm brush. For a bolder look, apply below your bottom lashes too. Choosing a cream consistency over a powder means the product clings to where you place it, so you won’t get any powdery overmatter dropping where it shouldn’t. If your eyes need a bit more definition (and you’ve got steady hands!), consider using a gel pencil on top, running it from the outer to the inner corner as close to your top lash line as possible. I like Marc Jacobs Beauty Highliner Gel Eye Crayon, £16.67, as it glides on easily without dragging my skin.

What about glitter?

a touch of shimmer (note: not glitter) around your eyes can make them look bigger and wide-awake, but ensure that you stick to the right shade. you want it to say sophisticated not silly – jewel, glossy, neutral tones or golden bases are your best bet. >>