Published: January 2026 | 4 min read
The smokey eye is a timeless makeup look that works for every occasion, from a glamorous night out to a sultry daytime vibe. Despite its dramatic appearance, it is actually one of the easiest eye looks to master once you know the technique. Follow our step-by-step guide and you will be creating flawless smokey eyes in no time.
What You Will Need
- An eyeshadow palette with dark and transition shades (try the Collection Eyes Uncovered palette)
- A kohl eyeliner pencil (Rimmel Scandaleyes Eye Definer works perfectly)
- Mascara (L'Oreal Air Volume or Rimmel Extra Long Lash)
- Eye primer (optional but recommended)
- Blending brush
- Flat shader brush
Step 1: Prime Your Lids
Start with clean, moisturised eyelids. If you have an eye primer, apply a thin layer across the entire lid area. This will help your eyeshadow last longer and appear more vibrant. If you do not have a primer, a touch of concealer patted across the lid works well as a substitute.
Step 2: Apply the Transition Shade
Take a medium-toned brown or taupe eyeshadow on a fluffy blending brush. Sweep this shade through the crease of your eye using windscreen-wiper motions. This creates a seamless gradient between your lid colour and your brow bone. Do not rush this step. Good blending is the secret to a professional-looking smokey eye.
Step 3: Pack on the Dark Shade
Using a flat shader brush, press your darkest shade (black, dark brown, or dark grey) onto the outer corner and outer half of your eyelid. Use a patting motion rather than swiping to deposit the most colour. Build the intensity gradually, as it is easier to add more than to take it away.
Step 4: Blend, Blend, Blend
This is the most important step. Using a clean blending brush, blend the edges where your dark shade meets the transition shade. Move in small circular motions, working from the outside in. There should be no harsh lines. The key to a beautiful smokey eye is seamless blending.
Step 5: Line Your Eyes
Take your kohl eyeliner and line your upper lash line, pressing it as close to the lashes as possible. Then, gently smudge the line using a small brush or the built-in smudge tip on the Rimmel Scandaleyes pencil. You can also line the waterline for extra intensity, but this is optional.
Step 6: Add a Highlight
Apply a light shimmer shade to the inner corner of your eye and just below the brow bone. This opens up the eye area and adds dimension to the look. Even a simple matte cream shade works well here.
Step 7: Finish With Mascara
Apply two generous coats of mascara, wiggling the wand from root to tip to ensure every lash is coated. The L'Oreal Air Volume mascara is perfect for this look, as it builds dramatic volume without clumping. If you want extra drama, add a coat to your lower lashes too.
Pro Tips
- Tape trick: Place a small piece of sticky tape at the outer corner of your eye at a 45-degree angle before you start. This gives a clean, sharp edge to your smokey eye. Remove the tape gently when finished.
- Less is more: Start with less product and build up. You can always add more shadow, but removing excess is tricky.
- Keep the rest simple: A dramatic eye looks best with a neutral lip. Try a nude gloss or tinted lip balm.
- Clean up: Use a cotton bud dipped in micellar water to clean up any fallout under your eyes.
Ready to try it yourself? Browse our eye makeup collection at Luxe Glow UK for everything you need to create the perfect smokey eye.