Easy Beginner Smokey Eye
Let’s face it — smokey eyes have a rep.
They sound intimidating. They look like they require six shades, 40 minutes, and possibly divine intervention.
But not anymore.
This beginner-friendly smokey eye is for the real ones: the moms, the multitaskers, the “I just want to look hot without having a breakdown” crowd.
Here’s how to pull it off using just a few key shades (looking at you, Bubba, Trust, Rigoletto, and Black Friday) and your trusty Eyeshadow + Etch brushes.can y
Step 1: Neutral Shade in the Crease
Grab your Eyeshadow Brush and buff a warm neutral brown, right into your crease. This creates depth and makes everything else blend like a dream.
Step 2: Dark Matte on Inner and Outer Corners
Use the smaller end of your Eyeshadow Brush to pack it onto both your inner and outer corners, leaving the center of the lid bare. This creates that halo-eye shape that makes your eyes pop.
Step 3: Dark Shimmer on Center of the Lid
Time to bring some drama. Tap a rich dark shimmer, onto the center of your lid using your fingertip or the flat side of your brush. It gives that sultry, glowy finish without looking like you tried too hard (even though you definitelydid).
Step 4: Cream Liner on Inner Lash + Outer Lash
Take your Etch Brush and apply a matte black, as cream liner along both your inner and outer lash lines. This defines your eyes without the harshness of a traditional pencil. It’s moody, soft, and won’t betray you with a mid-day smudge.
Step 5: Smudge Along Lower Lash Line
Softly smudge along the lower lash line. This ties it all together and gives you that effortless, lived-in look, like you just naturally wake up glamorous (which you might).
Bonus Tip:
Keep a Q-tip handy for cleanup or softening any edges if you get heavy-handed. Smokey eyes are forgiving, just like your favorite oversized hoodie.
Products I used:
Bubba, Trust, Rigoletto, and Black Friday
Eyeshadow Brush: One end for blending, one for precision. Basically your smokey eye sidekick.
Etch Brush: For detailed placement and that perfect smudged liner moment. Think effortless edge.
