Reminiscent of the iconic Cleopatra, the heavy eye makeup that the Egyptians wore to protect their eyes from diseases is now a universally loved look. In fact, it’s so well-loved that makeup schools like the Maquillage Professionnel School of Makeup Artistry even dedicated a quick course (2 hours of one-on-one training) focusing on it.
Women the world over prefer wearing the smoky-eye style for special occasions because of its sexy, intensely dramatic, and eye-popping effect. Still, some shy away from it due to two misconceptions: 1) it’s very complicated to do on your own and 2) it’s too dark to handle.
Judging from the layers of eyeshadow, the style does look intricate. But really, you simply apply layer upon layer of complementing eyeshadow shades which you just need to blend well. Believe me, this style is DIY material. And contrary to popular belief, smoky eyes don’t always have to be black. Smoky refers to the technique of creating a dark to light effect from the lash line to the outside of the lid. So yes, any color may be used to achieve a smoky-eye look. Just take this gorgeous purple style as an example.
1. Start with the basics.
It can never be said enough: the foundation of good makeup is good skin. Make sure you have a clean slate by prepping your face through cleansing, toning, and moisturizing. A step commonly overlooked, applying primer before the foundation is highly recommended to make your makeup last longer, as it basically serves as the base coat.
2. Hide imperfections.
Have a flawless look by putting corrector/concealer on areas that need coverage, such as pimple marks, blemishes, and dark undereyes. There are solid, liquid, and powder types of concealer. The liquid-type is the easiest to blend and it provides great coverage.
3. Get all bases covered.
Choosing the right foundation for your face can be very tricky. It’s a big beauty boo-boo if its shade doesn’t match your complexion. To see if it’s a perfect match, dab a dollop of the product on your jaw line and blend gently. If it disappeared and is identical to your skin tone, then you know you’ve found the one. Proceed with gently blending the foundation all over your face. You may use a foundation brush then support with a sponge, to ensure even application. Add concealer if you think it’s necessary.
4. Make sure you’re all set.
To set the foundation and create a more natural look, dust loose powder all over your face. If you’re using liquid foundation, brushing loose powder will lessen the oily finish.
5. Provide definition to your face.
Don’t underestimate the power of contouring; it defines and shapes the face. Gently brush bronzer (there are also face contouring kits/palettes available in the market nowadays!) on the hollows of your cheeks extending outward. You may also want to brush bronzer at the corners of your forehead, sides of your nose, and jawlines, creating a shadowy effect, to further define the contours.
6. Turn your eyes on the prize.
Now, for the highlight of your look: the eyes. Choose a multitonal palette, with at least three shades from the same color family, to create the smoky effect. For the look featured here, the shades used were violet, lavender, and plum. First off, apply the medium shade from the lash lines to the creases. Create a next layer with the lightest shade, sweeping it from where the first color ended up to the brow bones (brush highlighter just below your brows to add glow). For more drama, brush the darkest color from the outer corners of your eyes up to the middle, then lightly smudge it outwards using the eyeshadow brush. Be sure to blend the colors well for a flawless finish. Carefully trace your eyes with black eyeliner. Then, using the medium shade, trace your lower lash lines and lightly smudge. Curl your lashes and coat them with mascara.
7. Shape your eyebrows.
Remember, the brows can make or break a look, so this step is a must. The inner edges of your brows should be above the inner corners of your eyes. The point where the outer edges of your eyeballs are aligned should be the highest point of your brows. For your outer brows, draw imaginary lines from the outer nostrils to the outer edges of your eyes, to define the end points. Use a brow powder (or pencil) that’s close to the color of your hair to trace the arches in feathery strokes. Pluck or shave excess hair. Coat hair with brow mascara to enhance the color.
8. Smile and blush.
Brush rosy blush on the apples of your cheeks. Add highlighter if you want a more glowing look.
9. Keep your lips muted.
Since your eye makeup is already bold, go with a subtle shade of pink for your lips, then top it off with gloss.
Maquillage Professionnel is at 2/F Shoppes at Bellagio, Forbes Town Center. Burgos Circle, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, phone (2) 846 4647
